Embedded Files
NEED A LAWYER? CONTACT US TODAY
What Is a Peace Bond?
A peace bond is a court order issued under Section 810 of the Criminal Code of Canada requiring an individual to follow specific conditions for a defined period. Although it is not a criminal conviction, it is recorded in the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database until the conditions are fulfilled and the bond is discharged.
While a peace bond doesn’t result in a criminal record, it can still negatively affect background checks. For individuals seeking employment in fields such as education, healthcare, or social services—roles that demand a clean record and high trust—this can be a significant barrier. Positions that require a Vulnerable Sector Check are especially strict, and the presence of a peace bond can raise concerns during the hiring process.
Employers in these sensitive sectors prioritize safety and security, making them particularly vigilant in assessing candidates with any legal history, even if it doesn't involve a conviction.
Vulnerable Sector Checks and Peace Bonds
A peace bond is considered a non-conviction, which means that once it is completed without breach, individuals can apply for file destruction to have their fingerprints and related police records removed. However, because the individual was fingerprinted for the initial offence, the incident may still appear on a criminal background check until the file destruction is officially approved.
The Vulnerable Sector Check operates through a separate database and is specifically designed to protect vulnerable groups—such as children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities—by identifying individuals who may pose a risk. Importantly, even after file destruction is completed, an individual’s name may still appear on a Vulnerable Sector Check depending on the nature of the original incident and the policies of the reviewing police service.
How a Peace Bond Can Affect Employment and Travel
While a peace bond isn’t considered a criminal conviction, it can still impact both job opportunities and international travel—especially when crossing borders. Employers who run detailed background checks may uncover the existence of a peace bond, particularly if law enforcement was involved.
For this reason, extreme caution must be exercised before agreeing to enter into a peace bond. For example, someone involved in a domestic assault case with a strong chance of acquittal should carefully weigh the decision to accept a peace bond versus proceeding to trial. In many cases, the Crown’s offer of a peace bond in a domestic assault matter indicates that there is little or no reasonable prospect of conviction. However, agreeing to a peace bond can negatively affect one’s future, including potential employment opportunities.
Travelling to countries like the United States can also pose challenges. Immigration officers may have access to certain police records, and a peace bond could trigger questions or delays at the border.
Need Help With a Peace Bond?
Dealing with a peace bond can be complex, especially when considering how it may appear on background checks or vulnerable sector screenings. Navigating these issues isn't easy—but that's where Umer Law can help. Our dedicated legal team provides expert advice and effective strategies to minimize the impact of a peace bond and support you with record file destruction. Contact us today for trusted guidance.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse