How new charges are classified as domestic or not in Ontario, Canada.

What is the definition of a "domestic" or IPV (intimate partner violence) offence?

While the court paperwork does not usually specifically state the word “domestic” on it, the definition of a “domestic” aka IPV/intimate partner violence offence in Ontario is all encompassing and includes allegations made between people who are:

1. Married or separated
2. Living together common law or otherwise
3. Boyfriend / girlfriend
4. Exes including both failed long and short term relationships
5. Casual dating relationships such as friends with benefits

If the accused and the alleged victim know each other for reasons that are currently or were in the past not 100% platonic the case will normally be classified as domestic in Ontario. If two people meet on the internet and go for a coffee date it will be classified as a domestic offence even if no sexual activity ever occurred.

The accused will receive a Form 10 Undertaking if released from the police station which legally prevents them from communicating with the alleged victim directly or indirectly. If they are released after a bail hearing, they will receive a Form 11 Release Order.

The most common types of domestic charges are: assault (s. 266), uttering threats (s. 264.1), mischief (s. 430), and sexual assault (s. 270).

If you or someone you are looking to help has been charged with a domestic violence offence in Ontario please give us a call today at 647-228-5969 for a free consultation.


Call us today for a free assessment
You don't have to jeopardize your future or waste thousands of dollars on excessive legal fees. Our goal is to have the charges withdrawn and the release conditions varied to allow contact without a risky and unnecessary trial. We provide effective and affordable lawyer representation for those charged throughout all of Ontario, Canada.

You don't need to be apart from your spouse and family, spend tens of thousands of dollars, and risk getting a criminal record because of an unfortunate domestic incident. Have a skilled criminal lawyer protect you and your future from the stigma and consequences of a criminal record.





Are you a lawyer? If you are defending a domestic assault/uttering threats/mischief related case and are looking for expert advice regarding possible defences, case strategies, and information release management call us at: 647-228-5969.

Please note: We do not accept legal aid certificate cases. All clients are handled on a private retainer only.

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