Affordable Ottawa Assault Defence Lawyers

If you’ve been charged with assault in Ontario, the consequences can be serious—ranging from fines and probation to jail time and a permanent criminal record. But not every accusation leads to a conviction. With the right legal strategy, many assault charges can be reduced or dismissed.

At Affordable Defence in Ottawa, our top-rated & experienced criminal defence lawyers understand that assault allegations often stem from misunderstandings, heated arguments, or false accusations. We know what’s at stake—and how to fight back.

We will assess the strength of the evidence against you, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work toward the best possible outcome. Protect your rights and your future—contact us today for a free consultation.

Under Section 265 of the Criminal Code of Canada, assault is more than just physical violence.

Actions that can lead to an assault charge in Ontario

In Ontario, you can be charged with assault if you:

• Intentionally apply force to another person without their consent—whether directly or indirectly.
• Attempt or threaten to apply force through actions or gestures that cause the other person to reasonably believe you can carry it out.
• Accost or impede someone while openly carrying a weapon (or imitation weapon), including begging or threatening conduct while armed.

No physical injury is required for an assault charge. Even minor contact, verbal threats, or intimidation with a weapon can result in serious legal consequences.

Assault is further broken down into several different types, depending on the circumstances, as follows:

Physical harm is not required for an assault charge in Ontario

You can be charged with simple assault even if no one is physically injured. According to Canadian law, assault includes any intentional use of force—or threat of force—against another person without their consent.

This means that:

• A push, shove, or pinch may qualify as assault, even if it leaves no mark.
• A verbal threat combined with a physical gesture could also result in charges if the other person believes harm is imminent.

What matters is the intentional act and the lack of consent—not whether actual injury occurred.

Intent is a key element of an assault charge so if the physical contact is an accidental or reflex action, no charge can be filed.

It can be difficult to convict someone who is accused of assault in a crowded area, like a bus or sports arena, as the contact can be presented as accidental.

The two main defences to an assault charge are:

Assault charges in Ontario can lead to serious legal consequences, including jail time and a permanent criminal record.

Penalties for assault charges in Ontario depend on severity

The penalties depend on the type of assault and how the case is prosecuted.

• Simple assault may be prosecuted as a summary offence, with a maximum sentence of two years less a day.
• If prosecuted as an indictable offence, the penalty can increase to up to five years in prison.
• Assault causing bodily harm can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
• Aggravated assault, the most serious form, carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

In addition to imprisonment, any conviction can lead to a criminal record, which may impact employment, travel, and immigration status for years to come.

After reviewing your case, our legal team will assess whether there is a path to having the charges withdrawn or dismissed. If that’s not possible, we’ll explore alternative outcomes—such as a conditional discharge or diversion program—to help you avoid a criminal conviction, especially if you have no prior record.

At Affordable Defence in Ottawa, our experienced assault defence lawyers know how to challenge weak evidence, negotiate with Crown prosecutors, and fight for your rights in court.

Don’t face an assault charge alone. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.