Any intentional application of force without consent — from a shove to a strike. Defended on consent, self-defence, de minimis, or evidentiary grounds.
Under section 265 of the Criminal Code, a person commits assault when they intentionally apply force to another person, either directly or indirectly, without that person's consent. Simple assault under section 266 is a hybrid offence: up to five years on indictment, or up to two years less a day on summary conviction.
Summary conviction: up to 2 years less a day imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $5,000. On indictment: up to 5 years. A criminal record can affect employment, travel to the United States, and immigration status. Conditional discharges, peace bonds, and diversion are available in appropriate cases.
First appearance, Crown screening form, judicial pre-trial, resolution discussions, and trial if necessary. Most matters resolve before trial through a peace bond, diversion, or withdrawal.
Peterborough criminal matters and Provincial Offences trials are both heard at the courthouse on Simcoe Street. The City's Provincial Offences office at City Hall handles filings and payments — it is not where trials are held.
70 Simcoe Street, Peterborough, ON K9H 7G9
(705) 876-3846
Peterborough city and county criminal matters.
Twenty minutes, confidential, no obligation. We’ll discuss your charge, the realistic outcomes, and the cost of defence before you commit to anything.
