i.
What the charge means
Section 175 requires both the underlying conduct and an externally manifested disturbance to a third party — not merely an annoyance.
Criminal Code s.175
Cause Disturbance charges in Ottawa, Ontario.
Disturbing the peace in or near a public place by fighting, screaming, swearing, or obstructing persons. Summary offence — strong defences available.
- Courthouse
- Ottawa Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
- Court Phone
- (613) 239-1255
- Consultation
- Free & Confidential
ii.
Penalties
Summary conviction: up to 6 months and/or $5,000 fine. Diversion and peace bonds are commonly used to resolve these matters without a record.
iii.
Available defences
- No externally manifested disturbance
- Conduct not in or near a public place
- Identification
- De minimis
iv.
The process
Most cause disturbance charges resolve through peace bond, diversion, or withdrawal after disclosure.
v.
Notes for Ottawa
Ottawa hears matters from Ottawa Police, OPP, and RCMP traffic across the National Capital Region. We make regular trips and accept retainers Ontario-wide.
Ottawa Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
161 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K1
(613) 239-1255
Charged with cause disturbance?
Defence starts with a conversation.
Twenty minutes, confidential, no obligation. We’ll discuss your charge, the realistic outcomes, and the cost of defence before you commit to anything.