Record Suspensions

What Is The Record Suspension Program?

A Record Suspension (formerly called a pardon) allows those convicted of a criminal offence, who’ve completed their sentence, and shown they’ve been law-abiding citizens for a specific period, to have their criminal record set aside. The JHS Record Suspension Program provides support to eligible clients to complete the many steps required to submit a successful application to the Parole Board of Canada. If granted, a Record Suspension will set aside an individual’s criminal record from the Canadian Police Information Centre database so it will not come up on a background check.

How Does The Program Work?

Record Suspension Specialists support clients through the often complex and overwhelming Record Suspension application process. This includes determining eligibility, gathering required records, completing forms, liaising with police, court officials and The Parole Board of Canada. JHS may also be able to assist with covering some, if not all the application costs through Public Safety Canada funding.

Why Does JHS Run This Program?

John Howard Society has been assisting people to complete Record Suspension applications since 2006. A record suspension allows individuals who have been living as law-abiding citizens to be free of the negative impacts of their past criminal record including stigma and barriers to employment, education, and volunteer opportunities.

Who Is Eligible For This Program?

The Record Suspension program is open to anyone who has a criminal record, has been out of conflict with the law for the last 5-10 years (depending on the nature of their convictions) and meets the Parole Board of Canada’s record suspension application criteria.

For more information please call Jessica Caldwell at 705-2975513 or jcaldwell@jhsossm.ca

This program is funded by Public Safety Canada.

A caution about Private Services

You may have seen ads for companies that say they can get you a record suspension faster, easier or “guaranteed.” The truth is, it’s impossible for them to speed up or guarantee the process or outcome. The eligibility requirements and process are the same for everyone, no matter if they apply through a company or on their own — everyone gets the same consideration. You do not have to pay a private company or a lawyer to obtain a record suspension, you can go through the process yourself and only pay the document and application fees.
However, if you’re having difficulty with the process and would like some assistance, try getting information and help from:

• • The Parole Board of Canada helpline (toll- free): 1-800-874-2652