Criminal records create long-lasting barriers, impacting jobs, housing, travel, and even personal relationships. They’re a constant reminder of the past, even after you’ve made amends. Record suspensions offer a way to move forward, but the stakes are high, and the process is complex. Let us help you navigate it.
Sealed, Not Erased: It means your criminal record is set apart, and most background checks won’t reveal it. This ISN’T the same as your conviction being wiped out – it still exists.
Benefits Can Be Huge: A record suspension can:
Limits: Record suspensions aren’t for everyone, or every type of crime. There are strict rules, and some background checks (like for jobs in the legal field) may still uncover your past.
Sentence Fully Served: You must have completed jail time, probation, paid ALL fines, restitution orders, etc.
Waiting Periods: Generally, 5 years for summary convictions (less serious offences), and 10 years for indictable offences (more serious offences).\
No New Offences: You must have a clean record since your conviction. There are VERY limited exceptions to this, and they usually involve a single, minor summary conviction years later.
Not All Crimes Qualify: There’s a list of offences that are NEVER eligible (often sexual crimes, or those involving serious harm). Even some seemingly “minor” records can be rejected if the Parole Board doesn’t believe you’ve changed.
Criminal Record: In many instances, even after your sentence is complete, a record remains. This makes finding jobs, travel, housing, or getting loans extremely difficult, sometimes for life.
Loss of Rights: Sentences can mean loss of your right to own firearms, impact child custody arrangements, or even (in rare cases) lead to deportation if you’re not a Canadian citizen.
Employment & Education: Many jobs ask about criminal history, and schools may deny admission based on convictions.
The Stigma: Even post-sentence, the label of “convict” can follow you, harming your reputation and impacting personal relationships.
Paperwork & Deadlines: The application process is bureaucratic. Missing deadlines or submitting incomplete forms can cause long delays.
Proof of Good Conduct: You have to CONVINCE the Parole Board you deserve a Record Suspension. This means strong character references, and showing involvement in your community (employment, volunteering, etc.)
Rejection Hurts: It’s not just the lost filing fee. If denied, you might have to wait even longer to re-apply, losing out on years of opportunities.
Clarity from the Start: We’ll tell you upfront if you’re eligible, and if not, what your options might be down the road.
Building a Compelling Case: We gather strong supporting documents, and help you craft a persuasive application showcasing your positive change.
Advocacy & Expertise: We know what the Parole Board prioritizes, and argue effectively on your behalf, aiming for a decision on the first application.
Only a lawyer can assess your specific record, interpret the law, and provide reliable advice.
Sometimes. It might involve waiting longer, or seeking alternative options to clear lesser offences from your record. A lawyer can advise on your specific situation.
You can, but rejections are common, even for people with good cases. A lawyer helps you put your absolute best case forward.
Some jurisdictions have less formal processes for very old, minor offences. Eligibility is strict, but a lawyer can advise if it applies to you.
A record suspension can change your life’s trajectory. Using our vast experience and honed skill, we will:
View Our
Successful Cases
We have helped hundreds of people get their charges dropped or reduced. We know the system, fight hard for your rights, and get the best outcome for your future.
