A no-contact order is a legal restriction that prohibits an individual from communicating with or approaching another person. Often issued during or after criminal proceedings, no-contact orders aim to protect alleged victims, witnesses, or other individuals from further harm, harassment, or intimidation.
Whether you are the subject of a no-contact order or are seeking to understand how one may affect your legal rights, it is essential to know how these orders work, the different types, their consequences, and what legal options are available to modify or challenge them.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to no-contact orders in Canada, including their purpose, enforcement, potential defences, and how a criminal defence lawyer can assist.
What Is a No-Contact Order?
A no-contact order is a court-imposed condition that prohibits one individual (usually the accused) from directly or indirectly contacting another person. These orders are typically issued in criminal cases involving violence, harassment, domestic disputes, or threats, but they can also arise in situations where the court deems that contact between parties may interfere with the legal process or compromise public safety.
No-contact orders are considered protective measures and may apply to various individuals, including complainants, co-accused, children, or witnesses.
When Are No-Contact Orders Issued?
A no-contact order can be issued at various stages of the criminal justice process:
- During bail hearings or release conditions – An accused may be released from custody on the condition that they have no contact with the complainant or specific individuals.
- As part of a peace bond – A court may issue a peace bond requiring the individual to avoid contact with a person, even if no criminal conviction has occurred.
- As a probation or sentencing condition – After a conviction, the court may impose a no-contact order as part of a sentence or probation order.
- During conditional discharges or conditional sentences – The court may include no-contact provisions as part of a non-custodial sentence.
Types of No-Contact Orders
In Canada, there are several different types of no-contact orders, depending on the circumstances and legal framework:
1. Bail Condition No-Contact Orders
These are among the most common types of no-contact orders. When an individual is granted bail, the judge may impose conditions to ensure public safety, including an order prohibiting contact with the alleged victim or co-accused.
Violating this condition may result in a bail revocation or new criminal charges for breaching a court order.
2. Peace Bonds (Section 810 Orders)
A peace bond is a court order that can be issued even if criminal charges have not resulted in a conviction. A no-contact clause is often included in the conditions of a peace bond.
Peace bonds typically last for up to 12 months, and breaching them can result in criminal prosecution.
3. Probation Orders
Following a conviction, the court may impose a period of probation during which the offender is restricted from contacting certain individuals. These conditions are enforceable by law, and violations can result in further charges or penalties.
4. Conditional Sentence Orders
When an offender is serving a sentence in the community (such as house arrest), the court can include no-contact provisions to limit interactions with specific individuals or groups.
What Does “No Contact” Include?
A no-contact order typically restricts all forms of communication, including:
- In-person contact
- Phone calls or text messages
- Emails and social media messages
- Indirect contact through a third party (such as asking someone else to deliver a message)
It may also restrict being within a certain physical distance of the protected individual’s home, workplace, school, or other specified locations.
Consequences of Violating a No-Contact Order
Violating a no-contact order is considered a serious offence and may result in:
- New criminal charges (e.g., breach of probation, breach of recognizance, or failure to comply with a court order)
- Revocation of bail and detention pending trial
- Harsher sentencing outcomes
- Loss of credibility in court, particularly in ongoing cases
Even unintentional or accidental contact may be viewed as a breach, so it’s crucial to understand and follow all conditions precisely.
Can a No-Contact Order Be Modified or Removed?
Yes, a no-contact order can be changed, but it requires a formal legal process. This is typically done through a court application or motion.
Modifying or lifting a no-contact order may involve:
- Consent from the complainant or protected party
- Approval from the Crown Attorney
- Review and approval by a judge
A criminal defence lawyer can prepare the necessary legal documents and advocate in court for the order to be varied or removed, especially if circumstances have changed, such as a reconciliation or a mutual request to resume contact.
It is important to note that even if the complainant initiates contact, the accused must still comply with the order until it is officially modified or removed by the court.
How a Criminal Defence Lawyer Can Help
A skilled criminal defence lawyer plays an important role in helping clients manage the challenges associated with no-contact orders. A lawyer can:
- Explain the terms of the order in detail
- Prevent accidental violations by ensuring you understand your obligations
- Advocate for changes to the order where appropriate
- Challenge the order in court if it is unnecessary or overly broad
- Represent you if you are charged with breaching a no-contact condition
Having the right legal support can mean the difference between a manageable legal situation and a cascade of additional charges or complications.
Why Choose De Boyrie Law
At De Boyrie Law, we understand how restrictive and stressful no-contact orders can be — especially when they affect family relationships, co-parenting, or daily life. Our experienced legal team is committed to helping clients:
- Navigate the conditions of court orders with confidence
- Apply to modify or remove unnecessary restrictions
- Defend against breach allegations and minimize legal consequences
Whether you’re facing a no-contact condition as part of a bail hearing, probation, or peace bond, our team will provide strong legal representation and practical guidance every step of the way.
Schedule a Free Consultation with De Boyrie Law
If you are subject to a no-contact order or have been charged with breaching one, you need experienced legal guidance. Contact De Boyrie Law today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you protect your rights and your future.
Alex De Boyrie is an experienced Criminal Defence Lawyer covering Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area.
In short, Alex’s experience ranges from working on bail hearings, sexual offences, weapons and firearms, assault charges, drug offences, youth crimes, Impaired Driving, and other criminal offences.