The Difference Between Restraining Orders and Peace Bonds in Ontario

Restraining orders and peace bonds both offer legal protection—but they come from different courts and have different rules. This guide explains which one may apply to your situation in Ontario.

• Court Source

• Restraining Order: Family (or civil) court
• Peace Bond: Criminal court (section 810 Criminal Code)

• Eligibility

• Restraining Order: Must have been married, cohabited, or share a child with respondent
• Peace Bond: No prior relationship required; anyone fearing harm may apply

• Typical Uses

• Restraining Order: Domestic violence, separation, custody disputes
• Peace Bond: Harassment, stalking, threats by neighbours, acquaintances, strangers

• Application Process

• Restraining Order: File Form 9C (family) or Form 10 (civil) in court
• Peace Bond: Request through police station or at criminal courthouse; free of charge

• Duration

• Restraining Order: Indefinite or tied to family proceedings
• Peace Bond: Up to 12 months (renewable)

• Conditions Common to Both

• No direct or indirect contact (calls, texts, social media, third parties)
• No attending specified locations (home, work, school)
• No weapons possession or threats

• Enforcement & Breach

• Breach of either is a criminal offence
• Police can arrest on sight for violations
• Crown may pursue new charges or contempt proceedings

• Variation or Discharge

• Only a judge or justice can modify or cancel
• Restraining Order: File Form 8B (Motion to Vary) in family/civil court
• Peace Bond: Apply to original criminal court

• Key Takeaways

• Choose Restraining Order if there’s an intimate/family link and you need long‑term protection
• Choose Peace Bond for criminal enforcement and anyone posing a threat, regardless of relationship
• Both provide legally enforceable no‑contact safeguards

• Ontario Help Lines & Resources

• Legal Aid Ontario: 1‑800‑668‑8258
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1‑866‑863‑0511
• Victim Support Line: 1‑888‑579‑2888
• Court forms: ontariocourtforms.on.ca