Will a Peace Bond be on my criminal record?

A Peace Bond is a form of resolution in which the criminal charges are withdrawn with no finding of guilt. As a result of the charges being withdrawn, the accused is left with no criminal conviction for the alleged offence.

Despite the criminal charges being withdrawn, a Peace Bond will still appear on certain record checks for duration of the Peace Bond which is usually 12 months. Once the Peace Bond expires, it will no longer appear on any record checks.

Police Criminal Record Check
A criminal record check is the most basic background check that is generally completed within an hour. This type of background check only provides records of convictions and a such, a Peace Bond does not appear on this record check.

Police Information Check
Police Information Checks are more detailed than a police criminal record check. Information is searched from three databases and the results are provided on a Police Service certificate letter. Disclosure will include Canada-wide Criminal Record History, Vulnerable Sector Search (if required) and Police History; this includes Local Police Information and Alberta Provincial court records. A Peace Bond will appear in this type of record check for the duration of the Peace Bond. Once the Peace Bond expires, which is generally 12 months, the Peace Bond will no longer appear.

Police Vulnerable Sector Check
A Vulnerable Sector Check is the most comprehensive record check. Some organizations require a vulnerable sector check for potential employees or volunteers who may be working with vulnerable members of society such as children or people with disabilities. A Peace Bond will appear in this type of record check for the duration of the Peace Bond. Once the Peace Bond expires, which is generally 12 months, the Peace Bond will no longer appear.

About Cory Wilson

Cory has represented individuals from all walks of life including lawyers, police officers, athletes, corporate executives, teachers, and everything in between. Cory believes in access to justice for every person charged with a criminal offence regardless of their economic background.