What is a peace bond?

A peace bond is an order from a criminal court which requires someone to keep the peace and obey any other conditions that the court puts in the order.

A peace bond can be used as a form of punishment when someone has committed a minor criminal offence. The offender can be bound over to keep the peace for up to one year, which means that he or she has to stay out of trouble and not be charged with any criminal offences.

A peace bond can also be used in the situation where a person fears for his or her safety, children, or property. This can be the situation where an older adult is subjected to certain kinds of abuse. A peace bond cannot be used to protect from emotional or financial abuse. A court can grant a peace bond that requires the abuser to have no contact with the older adult and to stay away from specific locations.

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January 2006

see also:

• More Abuse of Older Adults FAQs

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