Assaults

Assault charges come in a variety of forms—ranging from simple assault to more serious allegations like assault with a weapon, causing bodily harm, assaulting police, resisting arrest, aggravated assault, and sexual assault.

Domestic Assault

Even though a domestic assault is not a separate offence under the Criminal Code, this charge involves an assault between intimate partners. Police often lay domestic charges with a zero-tolerance approach, and Crown prosecutors typically pursue them aggressively—even if the complainant no longer wishes to proceed.

If you’ve been charged with domestic assault, you may be prohibited from returning to your home or contacting your partner or children until the case is resolved—regardless of whether a conviction occurs.

Simple Assault (Section 266 of the Criminal Code)

Simple assault is one of the most common charges. It occurs when someone intentionally applies force to another person without their consent, attempts or threatens to apply force, or behaves in a way that causes the other person to reasonably fear being harmed. No physical injury is required for this charge to be laid.

Even without lasting physical damage, a conviction for simple assault can result in a criminal record, probation, travel restrictions, or employment consequences.

Assault with a Weapon or causing bodily harm (Section 267 of the Criminal Code)

This offence applies when an assault involves the use—or threat—of a weapon, causes bodily harm, or includes actions such as choking or strangling. The weapon does not have to be a gun or knife; everyday objects like bottles, tools, or even cell phones may be classified as weapons, depending on how they are used during the incident.

Aggravated Assault (Section 268 of the Criminal Code)

One of the most serious assault-related charges, a person commits aggravated assault when, during an attack on another individual, they wound, maim, disfigure, or endanger the life of the victim. What sets aggravated assault apart is the severity of the injuries caused.

If found guilty, the accused is liable to a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison. Given the seriousness of this offence, Crown prosecutors typically proceed by indictment, and courts impose strict penalties upon conviction.