If you have a criminal record, you may find that it holds you back in many areas of life, socially and economically. In this case, you may consider applying for a Record Suspension.
A Record Suspension is the same as a pardon. The name was changed in 2012; however, the end result is the same. Employers and other agencies will not be able to access your record.
How does a Record Suspension work?
When you have a criminal record, the RCMP keeps it in a database called, CPIC. CPIC stands for Canadian Police Information Centre.
When someone wants to check your criminal record, this is the database that police and background checking agencies will access.
Organizations that might ask you for a background check include:
- Employers
- Landlords
- Colleges and universities
- Social service agencies
- Volunteer agencies
When you get a Record Suspension, the RCMP will remove your record from this database and store it separately. This means that when people search the database, your record will come up clear in most cases.
It’s possible that people could find out about your record even if it’s sealed. For example, maybe there was a news story, the court decision is in an online database, or you live in a small town where everyone knows everything. In this case, a Record Suspension would still help you because it is not legal in most provinces to discriminate on the basis of suspended or pardoned record.
What happens to the old record
The RCMP won’t destroy your record. If you were to offend again, the Parole Board of Canada would revoke your Record Suspension and the record would be transferred back into the main database.
There is also an exception. If you have a sexual offence on your record, it can be disclosed for the purpose of a Vulnerable Sector Check.
How do I qualify
- Wait the required period: five years for summary offences and 10 years for indictable;
- Keep your record clean;
- Submit an application for a Record Suspension to the Parole Board of Canada.
If you are eligible to apply for a Record Suspension, you should start as soon as possible. Don’t wait until a criminal record affects your job search or your life. Get a Record Suspension and move forward with confidence.
If you are ready to get started, contact us today for a free consultation at 1-866-972-7366.