A Criminal Record Suspension (Pardon) seals a criminal record on the basis that a certain waiting period has passed and that the criminal record no longer reflects that person’s character.  It gives law abiding citizens an opportunity to reintegrate into society.

• For a summary offence the applicant must wait ** 3 years or 5 years after their sentence is complete.
  (A sentence may include one or several of the following – probation, fines, restitution, community service, jail and/or parole)
• For an indictable offence, the applicant must wait ** 5 years or 10 years after their sentence is complete.
  (A sentence may include one or several of the following – probation, fines, restitution, community service, jail and/or parole)
• You are NOT eligible if you have any Schedule 1 offences (sexual offence involving a child) under the Criminal Records Act;  more than three (3) offences prosecuted by indictment each with a prison sentence of two (2) years or more (usually causing personal injury such as manslaughter)

A criminal record can affect your employment possibilities, travel opportunities, and your peace of mind.

** If your conviction date is prior to March 12, 2012 you will apply for a pardon.  If your conviction date is after March 13, 2012 you will apply for a record suspension.

• A criminal record search is done on a Canada Wide basis (RCMP certified fingerprints);
• All court documents are gathered, including proof that all fines/restitution’s / surcharges and/or compensation orders have been paid in full and sentences served;
• Written verification is obtained from the local police in every jurisdiction that the applicant has resided in for the past five years;   the police will indicate whether or not the applicant is involved in criminal activity or anything is missing from the criminal record;
• A letter is written explaining the circumstances of each offence in detail, how a Criminal Record Suspension will benefit them and what they have done to change showing good behaviour;
• The Parole Board of Canada is petitioned; upon verification that the applicant meets all requirements, has been of “good conduct” and has had ‘no’ trouble with the law since their last conviction, the Criminal Record Suspension may or may not be granted.