A record suspension service, often referred to as a pardon service in some jurisdictions, is a professional service that assists individuals with the process of applying for and obtaining a record suspension (pardon) for their criminal convictions.
A record suspension is a formal recognition from the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) where a person’s past criminal conviction(s) should no longer have an active impact on their life. Please note that the record suspension application does not mean an individual is applying to remove the conviction, but it sets it apart from the regular criminal record database. In order to make a record suspension application, an individual has to meet certain requirements, and this is advantageous as well for the individual’s profile.
Record suspensions can provide significant benefits to individuals with a criminal record, such as improving their employment prospects, travel opportunities, and overall quality of life.
SekCheck, a RCMP accredited fingerprinting company, thoroughly assists you with all aspects of the background Suspension procedure, including the criminal background check, digital fingerprinting, court information retrieval, and gathering necessary paperwork from Canadian government departments to finish the application.
The eligibility criteria to apply for a Record Suspension (formerly known as a pardon) in Canada can vary depending on the type of offense and the specific circumstances of an individual’s criminal record. However, some general eligibility criteria include:
You must have completed your sentence, including any imprisonment, probation, fines, or restitution orders associated with the conviction.
There is a waiting period after the completion of your sentence before you can apply for a Record Suspension. The waiting period depends on the type of offense:a) For summary offenses (less serious crimes), you must wait 5 years after completing your sentence.b) For indictable offenses (more serious crimes), you must wait 10 years after completing your sentence.
During the waiting period and the application process, you must not have been convicted of any new criminal offenses.
You must have paid all fines, restitution, or other financial obligations related to your convictions.
Perhaps one of the most significant benefits is the improved access to employment opportunities. With a Record Suspension, individuals can legally state that they do not have a criminal record when applying for jobs, which can enhance their chances of securing employment.
For individuals with career aspirations that involve security clearances or professional licensing, a Record Suspension can be essential. It can make them eligible for positions that were previously off-limits due to their criminal record.
A Record Suspension can make it easier to travel internationally, as some countries have stringent entry requirements for individuals with criminal records. It can facilitate smoother border crossings and visa applications.
Landlords and property managers often conduct background checks on potential tenants. A Record Suspension can improve an individual’s chances of being approved for rental housing.
Record Suspension helps reduce the stigma associated with having a criminal record. It allows individuals to move forward with their lives without being constantly reminded of their past mistakes.
It’s important to note that the process of obtaining a Record Suspension can be complex, time-consuming, and may involve legal fees. Eligibility criteria and waiting periods can vary depending on the nature and number of convictions. As such, individuals seeking a Record Suspension should consider seeking legal advice or assistance from organizations specializing in record suspension services to navigate the process effectively.
