Record Suspensions

What is a Record Suspension (Pardon)?

A Record Suspension, formally known as a Pardon, means that your criminal record will be kept separate and apart from other records and will not show up on a criminal record check.

You are able to apply for a Record Suspension (Pardon) 5 years after you have completed all sentences for summary conviction offences and 10 years for indictable offences.

The waiting period begins after all sentences are complete—meaning all of the sentence including parole/statutory release has been served, probation orders or conditional sentences have been completed, and all fines and/or restitution orders have been paid.

You may not be eligible for a Record Suspension (Pardon) if:

1)      You have been convicted of a Schedule 1 Offence (sexual offence involving a child) (with some exceptions)

2)      You have been convicted of more than 3 indictable offences each with a prison sentence of 2 years or more

The process can take 6 months to 1 year to complete and The Parole Board of Canada charges $631 to process Pardon applications. Once received, the Parole Board can take 6-12 months to render a decision.

How Can We Help?

The John Howard Society of Simcoe and Muskoka is here to assist and support with every step of the application process. The Parole Board has specific requirements and steps that we are able to help clients work through. Some services include:

• Determining eligibility for a Record Suspension (Pardon) before costs are incurred
• Corresponding with personnel from the courts, the RCMP, police stations and the Parole Board on behalf of the client
• Obtaining all necessary paperwork from courthouses
• Assisting clients with all paperwork and forms, including the Measurable Benefits form
• Completing the application and mailing it to the Parole Board of Canada

There is an administrative fee associated with this service.

Benefits of a Record Suspension (Pardon)

A Record Suspension (Pardon) is an important step in helping individuals move forward as productive members of society. Some benefits of a Record Suspension (Pardon) include:

• Ability to secure employment
• Ability to secure volunteer opportunities
• Ability to pursue schooling as well as co-op opportunities
• Increased access or visitation to children
• Travel to the U.S
• Removal of the stigma and shame associated with having a criminal record
• Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
• Closure on a past associated with criminality and a clean slate to move forward

Please contact us with any questions and get your Record Suspension Application started today!

Sydney Margarit 

705-816-0237

smargarit@jhssm.ca