Resolving Without Pleading Guilty

For minor offences, the Crown may offer a program called Diversion. This is a program where, upon completion of certain requirements (community service, counselling, charitable donations, etc.), the Crown will withdraw or stay a charge.

The Crown may also agree to allow an Accused person to enter into a peace bond. Under the criminal code, an individual may enter into a recognizance to "keep the peace and be of good behaviour", along with other conditions as determined by the Court (usually not to communicate directly or indirectly with the complainant), for a 12-month period. Peace bonds carry no criminal record and are not a finding of guilt (although there could be employment and travel consequences). In certain circumstances the Crown will withdraw a charge in exchange for an Accused entering into a peace bond.

The charge screening form will state the Crown's initial position on resolution by way of diversion or peace bond. A lawyer may be able to assist in presenting reasons why the Crown should reconsider a decision not to offer a resolution by way of diversion or peace bond.