Pardon Services in Canada
Clear Your Criminal Record and Rebuild Your Future
If you have a criminal record, you already understand how deeply it can affect your employment opportunities, travel privileges, immigration status, community involvement, and overall reputation. As a criminal defence lawyer in Brampton with more than ten years of experience, I help individuals across Ontario secure Record Suspensions (formerly known as Pardons) so they can move forward without the weight of past convictions holding them back.
When you work with me, you work directly with an experienced lawyer who understands the Parole Board of Canada’s requirements and the complexities of the Pardon application process from start to finish.
Contact me today at (437) 998-1429 for a free consultation.
Understanding Pardon Services in Canada
A Pardon, now formally called a Record Suspension, does not erase your criminal record—it sets it aside so it is no longer publicly visible on most criminal background checks. Once granted, a Record Suspension removes significant barriers, allowing you to rebuild your life with dignity and freedom.
What Is a Record Suspension?
A Record Suspension is an official decision by the Parole Board of Canada confirming that your criminal record has been set aside because you have demonstrated law-abiding behaviour after completing your sentence.
How a Pardon Helps You Move Forward
A Pardon gives you the ability to apply for jobs, travel, volunteer, obtain a license, and reintegrate into society without the stigma of a criminal conviction.
Difference Between a Pardon and Record Destruction
A Record Suspension is for individuals who have been convicted of a criminal offence. Record destruction applies to charges that were withdrawn, stayed, dismissed, or resulted in an acquittal. I assist with both, depending on your circumstances.
Who Qualifies for a Pardon?
Understanding your eligibility is the most important first step. I conduct a complete review of your convictions, sentence completion dates, waiting periods, police history, and overall conduct before advising you on whether you meet the legal requirements.
Eligibility Requirements Under the Criminal Records Act
You must have:
- Fully completed all parts of your sentence
- Paid all fines, surcharges, restitution, or compensation
- Completed probation or parole
- Demonstrated sustained good behaviour
Mandatory Waiting Periods for a Record Suspension
- 5 years for summary conviction offences
- 10 years for indictable offences
The waiting period begins only after your entire sentence is complete.
Offences That May Not Qualify
Certain sexual offences involving minors, as well as convictions with ongoing prohibitions, may impact eligibility. I will advise you on any restrictions.
How Good Conduct Is Evaluated
The Parole Board examines your police interactions, community behaviour, employment history, and other indicators to determine whether you pose any risk of reoffending.
Why a Pardon Matters
A criminal record can create long-term, often unexpected consequences. A Record Suspension helps restore your quality of life.
Employment Opportunities
Most employers conduct criminal background checks. A Pardon prevents your past conviction from appearing.
Immigration, Travel, and Border Crossing
While a Pardon does not guarantee entry into the United States, it significantly improves your ability to travel and reduces scrutiny at international borders.
Volunteer Work and Community Involvement
Many volunteer organizations require police checks. A Record Suspension allows you to participate freely.
Housing, Licensing, and Professional Accreditation
Landlords, licensing bodies, and professional regulators frequently request background checks. A cleared record can make these processes much easier.
Restoring Your Reputation
A Pardon brings closure, privacy, and peace of mind, allowing you to move forward confidently.
Pardon Services I Provide
When you retain me, I manage your entire Pardon application from start to finish, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and the strongest possible presentation.
Gathering All Required Documentation
This includes:
- RCMP fingerprint-based criminal record
- Court records and proof of conviction
- Local police record checks
- Military records (if applicable)
- Proof of sentence completion
Full Legal Review of Your Criminal History
I analyze your convictions, court outcomes, timelines, and waiting periods.
Eligibility Assessment
I confirm whether you qualify now or provide a roadmap for when you will become eligible.
Preparing and Submitting Your Application
I draft all required forms, personal statements, and supporting materials, ensuring your application meets Parole Board expectations.
Addressing Complications or Refusals
If your application has been denied before or delays have occurred, I can help correct errors and rebuild your file.
Ongoing Guidance and Communication
You deal directly with me at every stage, not a paralegal or third party.
The Pardon Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Eligibility Review
I begin by confirming that you meet all the conditions under the Criminal Records Act.
Step 2: Fingerprints
You must complete an accredited RCMP fingerprint check to obtain your national criminal record.
Step 3: Court and Police Documents
I gather court information, sentencing documents, and police reports.
Step 4: Evidence of Good Conduct
This may include employment records, certificates, community service letters, or personal statements.
Step 5: Application Submission
I prepare and submit a complete, polished application to the Parole Board of Canada.
Step 6: Board Review and Decision
The Board assesses your behaviour, records, and risk level before issuing a decision.
How Long Does a Pardon Take?
Application Preparation
Depending on your records and court timelines, preparation may take weeks to a few months.
Parole Board Review Times
The Board generally takes:
- 6 months for summary offences
- 12 months for indictable offences
Factors That Can Affect Processing
Missing court records, incomplete police checks, or outdated information can extend review periods.
Costs Associated With Pardon Services
Government Fees
The Parole Board of Canada charges a processing fee.
Legal Service Fees
My fees reflect the complexity of your case, the number of convictions, and the required documentation.
Additional Costs
This may include fingerprinting fees, court transcript charges, or police record fees.
Common Challenges With Pardon Applications
Missing Documentation
Old records may be incomplete or archived.
Inaccurate RCMP Files
Sometimes fingerprints or convictions are incorrectly listed.
Past Refusals
Even if you were denied in the past, I can help strengthen your file.
Police Behaviour Reports
Negative entries in local police records can affect your outcome.
Multiple or Old Convictions
Older cases require careful documentation to avoid delays.
Why Choose Me for Pardon Services?
- Over 10 years of experience in criminal law
- One-on-one representation from start to finish
- Deep knowledge of Parole Board of Canada requirements
- Precise documentation and organized applications
- A proven track record of helping clients clear their records
Contact Me for Pardon Services
If you are ready to clear your criminal record and start a new chapter, I am here to guide you. I provide focused, experienced legal representation throughout the entire Record Suspension process.
Call me today at (437) 998-1429 to schedule your free consultation.
If you want, I can now prepare the next page: Record Suspension Lawyer Ontario or any other service page in your pipeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If you commit a new offence or breach certain conditions, the Parole Board may revoke a previously granted Record Suspension.
Yes. Many clients with several convictions receive Pardons as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.
A government-issued photo ID is required to verify your identity before swearing the affidavit.
Stable employment, community involvement, responsible behaviour, and a clean police history all contribute to a strong application.
Certain sexual offences may still appear on a vulnerable sector check. I can advise you based on your specific record.
A Pardon helps, but U.S. border officials make independent decisions. In some cases, you may require a U.S. Entry Waiver.
A Pardon sets your record aside; it does not delete it. It will no longer appear in most checks.
You must complete every part of your sentence, including paying fines, before applying.
I can help you understand the reasons and rebuild your file for re-application.