Charges · Ontario
What happens after a sexual assault charge in Ontario?
In two sentences
Sexual assault is an assault of a sexual nature — the law turns on consent, and it covers a wide range of conduct. These cases move slowly and carefully; a lawyer from the first day matters more here than for almost any other charge.
In short
- Sexual assault is an assault of a sexual nature — the law turns on consent, and it covers a wide range of conduct.
- These cases move slowly and carefully; a lawyer from the first day matters more here than for almost any other charge.
- A bail hearing is common.
What does a sexual assault charge mean?
You are accused of sexual contact without consent. Release usually comes with strict no-contact conditions; the police may take a phone.
What usually happens next?
A bail hearing is common. First court date in 4–6 weeks; disclosure can be large; these cases often go to a judicial pre-trial and take months. Publication bans usually protect the complainant's identity.
What should I bring?
Questions people ask
What is sexual assault in law?
Sexual assault is an assault of a sexual nature — the law turns on consent, and it covers a wide range of conduct.
How long do these cases take?
First court date in 4–6 weeks; disclosure can be large; these cases often go to a judicial pre-trial and take months.
Can the police take my phone?
Generally, police need a search warrant to search the contents of a phone, even if the phone is seized at the time of arrest.
Do I have to talk to the police?
No — a person does not have to answer police questions, whether that's in person, at a station, or over the phone. You can confirm identifying information if asked, but you're not required to explain, discuss the events, or answer follow-up questions.
What should I bring?
Bring every paper the police gave you (release order, undertaking, appearance notice); photo ID; the names of anyone who saw what happened; any texts, photos or messages about it — do not delete anything.; the release order; any paper about property taken. Do not contact the other person or anyone connected to them..
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- Criminal Code (Canada), ss. 271–273, accessed 2026-09-22
- Ontario Court of Justice, accessed 2026-09-22
- Steps to Justice (CLEO), sexual assault charges., accessed 2026-09-22
Accessed 2026-09-22.
Free 24/7 criminal law information · not legal advice · not a law firm. Legal Aid Ontario: 1-800-668-8258.