Articles

The Ottawa Police Service are planning on charging volunteers for background check requests, which have been free since the Ottawa, Gloucester, and Nepean forces amalgamated in 1995. This is the only type of background check that remains free, with criminal record checks for employment purposes priced at $50 and vulnerable sector checks priced at $15….

In September of 2018, Canada is due to pass the “Cannabis Act”, which seeks to legalize cannabis consumption and use. The Act aims to reduce organized crime and prevent Canadian youth from pre-maturely consuming cannabis by strictly regulating access. Many believe the legalization of marijuana will lead to entry issues for Canadians when crossing the…

The Society for Human Resource Management found that nine out of 10 employers conduct criminal background checks on applicants. This makes being hired with a criminal record a bit challenging, but it isn’t impossible. Employers do background checks to ensure that the nature of your criminal record does not relate to the type of job…

Whether you’ve had convictions or dismissed charges, your criminal record will negatively affect your life. The best way to handle this is to get a pardon, also called a record suspension, because it allows your criminal record to be separated from the public’s view so you can start anew.  There are many everyday circumstances that…

Despite being a province that is open to marijuana use, British Columbia has begun preparing for its legalization—set out to be in effect later this year –by putting into place new marijuana regulations and a 90-day ban on impaired driving. Restrictions Individuals of 19 years of age and older will be allowed to possess up…

According to CBC News, the RCMP has found fault with the criminal background checks and pardons system on account of the changes made by the Liberal government in 2016. These new changes have allowed people with “disturbing” records to apply to job sectors that are categorized as “vulnerable” because they relate to services that cater…

Since Justin Trudeau became Prime Minister in 2015, approximately 2,000 people have been convicted of marijuana possession. Despite the forthcoming legalization, simply having marijuana is still a federal offence according to the Controlled Substances Act. With the legalization of marijuana scheduled to take effect summer of 2018, the question remains: what will become of those…

Criminal record “sneaks up” on middle-age Canadians Canadians who get a standard background check for employment or volunteer work surprised to find lingering criminal record, says CEO of nationwide Pardon firm. OTTAWA, ON — Canadians who received an absolute or conditional discharge before July 24, 1992, shouldn’t be surprised to find a lingering criminal record…

Pardon Applications of Canada explores some of the most common misconceptions about attempting to enter the United States with a criminal record. Over the last decade or so, Canadians have experienced stricter regulations when attempting to cross the United States border.  Things have become especially difficult for travelers who hold a criminal record. With the introduction…

A Pardon, now known as a Record Suspension, is within reach for most Canadians, but there is many common misconceptions with regards to the costs involved. If you have served your sentence, you deserve a chance to move on from your past. A Pardon allows you the opportunity to permanently seal your criminal record from…

If you’re living with the burden of a criminal record in Canada and want to know how to get a Pardon, this guide will cover the basics of the process, including: How to determine your eligibility The basic process for obtaining a pardon The costs associated with an application Being granted a Pardon removes the…

If you want to travel to the USA with a criminal record, obtaining a US Entry Waiver is the only way to ensure you will not be denied, detained or arrested at the border or airport. The detailed legal process can be daunting and involves multiple phases. Further, the United States Department of Homeland Security…

Life with a criminal record is challenging. Finding steady employment, completing an education, and travelling abroad are made extremely difficult by having a criminal past. A Canadian Pardon (now known as a record suspension) gives those who have successfully rehabilitated a chance to move forward from the past and lead a fulfilling life.  Canadian Pardons…

Canadian Pardons are now known as Record Suspensions, and the process for obtaining one can be detailed and lengthy.  Once the application process is completed, it will be submitted to the Parole Board of Canada and up for review. The following blog addresses which factors are weighed during the Pardon application review process and the…

Do you have a criminal record in Canada and are wondering which countries allow you to enter despite your criminal charges? The answer isn’t simple. Each country is different and border guards are free to bar you entry at their own discretion. A crime, no matter the nature, may be grounds for refusal. This blog…

A criminal record will likely make you inadmissible to the United States; however,  Canadian citizens that have been or are likely to be denied entry may apply for a US Waiver. The application process can be daunting, and there are many documents that must be collected and completed before you can apply. While there is…

A criminal record will likely make you inadmissible to the United States.  However, Canadian citizens and permanent residents that have been or are likely to be denied entry may apply for a US Entry Waiver, or just “Waiver” for short.A criminal record will likely make you inadmissible to the United States.  However, Canadian citizens and…

Obtaining a Record Suspension (Pardon) frees you from the stigma attached to having a criminal record and removes legal barriers that hinder your ability to live an ordinary life. The laws governing the eligibility period, waiting times, and steps involved in obtaining a Pardon are often confusing, and delays in the justice system leave many…

Many Canadians believe that it is necessary to retain legal counsel to aid their Pardon application process. With this decision, those with prior convictions will almost certainly be paying a lawyer far too much to handle their application. The application process is detailed and specific, but it does not require an attorney. In fact, there…

If you are burdened with mistakes from the past, then it can be difficult to find a job, pursue an education, travel, or have a normal life. Getting a Pardon can help you gain access to these opportunities by sealing your record from public visibility forever. But applying for a Pardon is not about filling…