Many people with criminal records are drawn towards careers where they can help others avoid the same kind of mistakes that they made and turn their lives around. First hand experience can be valuable because it shows that rehabilitation and getting back on track is possible. One of the positions that people with this mindset are often drawn to is correctional officer. However, getting a career like this is difficult with a criminal record. You need to show that you have truly moved on from the past.
Correctional officers are expected to demonstrate integrity and ethical behaviour. They must be able to maintain and model good interpersonal relationships. You should be emotionally resilient because you will sometimes face difficult situations even though Canada’s correctional facilities aren’t exactly the violent and dangerous places that you see on American TV shows. Good judgment, leadership skills and the ability to deal with conflict will be strong assets when dealing with people who may be angry, hostile, or suffering from mental health issues, addictions and other challenges.
Correctional officers may work for federal or the provincial systems. The requirements differ, but you would need a clean record to pass the screening.
Getting a Record Suspension
The only way to become a correctional officer in Canada with a criminal record is to apply for a Record Suspension from the Parole Board of Canada.
The process of applying for a Record Suspension takes one to two years depending on the seriousness of your record. Before you can apply, there is a waiting period of:
5 years: Summary conviction
10 years: Indictable conviction
In addition to demonstrating that you have kept a clean record, you will also have the opportunity to describe how the Record Suspension will benefit you in your career goals. Once you have your Record Suspension, it is an acknowledgement that you have rehabilitated and the mistakes of the past should no longer reflect poorly on you.
Preparing to become a correctional officer
In the meantime, you might want to work on your skills and experience by pursuing educational and volunteer opportunities. Keep in mind that many volunteer positions in the social services require a criminal record check. Look for those organizations that may be willing to give a person with a record a chance. Volunteering will help you improve and demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
Educational programs in law enforcement and security may also require a criminal record check before you can complete your practicum. You may be able to enroll and do the practicum at a later date. Theoretical classroom courses in law and criminology will also give you an excellent background. Classes in psychology and counselling may also be useful. You should also maintain excellent physical fitness and keep up-to-date first aid certificates.
The application process to become a correctional services officer is very competitive, so whatever you can do to improve your suitability for the role will help. If you are hired as a correctional officer there will be additional training before you are assigned to an institution.
The goal of Canada’s correctional services system is to help people become law-abiding citizens once they return to the community. As someone who has moved on from the past, it is likely that you share this belief that people can change. If you want to become a correctional services officer or take on any other role that requires a clean criminal record, contact us for a free consultation on how a Record Suspension can help at 1-866-972-7366.