The crime of Assault with a Weapon is the application or threatened application of force against another person where a weapon is used as a tool in respect of the force. Strictly speaking, any object can be a weapon. Objects like firearms, knives or clubs are easily recognized as weapons; however, individuals have been convicted of this offence for threatening and striking other persons with objects like snowballs, loafs of bread or even water.

An individual may be charged with committing the offence of Assault with a Weapon simply by knowingly waving a knife or object in the direction of a person, pointing a firearm at a person or striking another individual with an object. In fact, simply having a weapon openly on your person while taking part in an Assault is sometimes all it takes to have more severe charges levied against you.

Consequences of a Domestic Assault with a Weapon Conviction

Under the Criminal Code, a conviction for Assault with a Weapon carries a maximum possible penalty of ten years imprisonment should the Crown choose to proceed by indictment, and 18 months imprisonment should the Crown proceed by way of summary conviction.