.avif)
A Record Suspension application can take one to two years, or even more. If you are coming up to the time you are eligible to apply, it’s a good idea to start the process at least six months early.
When can you start the Record Suspension application?
If you have a summary conviction, you are eligible to apply five years after you finish your sentence. A sentence includes jail time, probation, fines and restitution.If you have an indictable conviction you have to wait 10 years.Many people don’t know if they have a summary or indictable conviction. This will be found in the court records. There are a few types of convictions that are always summary, such as possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana, but for others, you will need to look at the court documents. Also, when we request your records we may uncover unpaid fines. We are required to provide proof to the Parole Board that all fines have been paid. Sometimes this isn’t the case. If you haven’t paid the fines, you will have to pay them off and the waiting period will start from the beginning.
Why does it take a long time?
First of all, you will need to obtain a certified criminal record. This is requested from the RCMP. On their website they state that the current processing time is 120 days. Once you have your record, you can request your police checks and court documents. When you opt for our service, we can start about four months sooner because of our police partnership. However, you still must wait for government documents to arrive. We try to follow up as often as possible, but it’s important to remember that some of these agencies are busy or under-staffed. Some courthouses, for example, will send your records in a matter of weeks, while others will take months.Secondly, once you have finished compiling your application you must wait for the Parole Board to make their determination. The Parole Board does not hold hearings on Record Suspension applications. They will make their decision on the paperwork that we submit. This takes six months for summary offences and one year for indictable.Having a representative will not expedite your application with the Parole Board. They treat every application the same. The benefit of having a representative is that we have the experience to be able to prepare your application as quickly as possible. If you did it on your own, you would have to find the time to learn the process and follow the steps. Many people who apply on their own have their applications returned because of missing documents and information. We will make sure the application is complete. Having a representative is similar to hiring an accountant to do your taxes.If you are ready to get started on your Record Suspension application, contact us today at 1-866-972-7366.
