Identify which order actually applies
A no-contact condition can appear in a police undertaking, bail or release order, a peace bond, probation order or family-law protection order. The source matters because the process for changing the condition and the consequences of breach can differ.
Keep a copy of the current order. Do not rely on memory, an older version or what another person says the condition means.
Peace bonds are Criminal Code recognizances
Legal Aid BC describes a peace bond as a protection order made under the Criminal Code. Conditions can include no direct or indirect contact, staying away from specified places, weapons restrictions and other terms. See Legal Aid BC’s current protection-order information.
A peace bond itself is not a criminal conviction. Breaching a recognizance can, however, amount to a criminal offence.
Domestic-violence peace bond provisions changed federally
The Criminal Code now includes section 810.03, a specific recognizance framework concerning fear of domestic violence. The applicable section and conditions depend on the circumstances.
People should not assume older online explanations of section 810 capture every current peace-bond route.
Consent from the protected person does not cancel the order
If a court order prohibits contact, the person protected by it generally cannot privately authorize the accused to ignore the order. A variation or cancellation must be obtained through the proper legal process.
Indirect contact through children, relatives, social media, gifts or third parties may also be prohibited depending on the wording.
Family-law protection orders are different
A family-law protection order can be made under B.C.’s Family Law Act where there is a risk of family violence. It is not the same as a peace bond, although similar no-contact or stay-away terms may appear. Legal Aid BC explains the distinction in its no-contact materials.
Questions people often ask
Does a peace bond create a criminal conviction?
The peace bond itself is not a conviction, but breaching its conditions can lead to a criminal charge.
Can the other person invite me to contact them?
An invitation does not override a court or release condition. Follow the order until it is formally changed.
How long can a peace bond last?
Many section 810 peace bonds can last up to 12 months, but the applicable Criminal Code provision and order should be checked.