May 12
How Domestic Assault Charges Can Impact Your Record and Future
Being charged with domestic assault in Ontario can have serious and lasting consequences—far beyond the courtroom. Even if it’s your first offence or the situation seems minor, a conviction can affect your criminal record, employment, family life, and more.
At LZZ Defence, we’ve helped countless clients fight domestic assault charges and avoid long-term damage to their future. In this article, we explain what’s at stake and how a strong legal defence can protect you.
What Is Considered Domestic Assault?
Domestic assault is defined under the Criminal Code of Canada as any type of assault committed against a spouse, partner, former partner, or family member within a domestic relationship. This includes:
- Pushing, hitting, slapping, or grabbing
- Threatening violence or emotional harm
- Intimidation or verbal abuse during an argument
Even minor incidents can result in criminal charges, and police in Ontario are required to lay charges once a complaint is made—even if the complainant doesn’t want to proceed.
The Long-Term Impact of a Domestic Assault Conviction
- Criminal Record
A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record that can follow you for life. This record is visible during background checks and can make it harder to:
- Find or keep a job
- Volunteer
- Apply for immigration or citizenship
- Secure child custody in family court
- Employment Consequences
Employers often conduct criminal background checks, especially in fields like education, healthcare, government, finance, and transportation. A domestic assault conviction may disqualify you from these roles or lead to termination from your current job.
- Travel Restrictions
A criminal record can limit your ability to travel internationally. Countries such as the United States may deny entry to individuals with domestic violence convictions, even if the offence was minor or occurred years ago.
- Family Law Issues
Domestic assault charges can impact your access to children, especially in ongoing family or custody disputes. Courts may impose no-contact or non-communication orders, which can create emotional and legal challenges when navigating parental rights.
- Stigma and Social Consequences
Even without a conviction, being charged with domestic assault can damage your reputation. Relationships with family, friends, and colleagues may suffer, and the emotional toll can be significant.
Can Domestic Assault Charges Be Dropped?
While charges are often laid quickly in domestic incidents, having them dropped is more complex. The Crown attorney, not the complainant, decides whether to proceed with the case. This means even if the alleged victim wants to withdraw the complaint, the charges may still go to trial.
That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced domestic assault lawyer to advocate on your behalf and explore options such as:
- Peace bonds
- Diversion programs
- Withdrawals
- Reduced charges
- Acquittal at trial
How LZZ Defence Can Help
At LZZ Defence, we understand the devastating personal and legal consequences of a domestic assault charge. Our legal team provides strategic, compassionate, and experienced representation aimed at:
- Preventing a criminal record
- Protecting your freedom and rights
- Resolving charges quickly and effectively
- Safeguarding your employment and family life
We defend clients throughout:
- Toronto and Downtown Core
- Peel Region (Mississauga, Brampton)
- York Region (Newmarket, Vaughan, Markham)
- Durham Region (Oshawa, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby)
- Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Halton Hills
Don’t Let a Domestic Assault Charge Define Your Future
If you’ve been charged with domestic assault, the stakes are too high to face alone. A conviction can permanently affect your life—but with the right legal defence, many of these consequences can be avoided.
Contact LZZ Defence today for a free, confidential consultation
Visit us at www.lzzdefence.ca
