Your Past Doesn’t Have to Define Your Future:
You’ve paid your dues. Maybe it was years ago. You’ve stayed out of trouble, built a career, supported your family, but that old conviction still follows you. It may show up in background checks, job applications, rental agreements, and immigration or travel paperwork.
In Canada, there’s a legal way to move forward. It’s called a Record Suspension, formerly known as a “pardon.” And for many Albertans, it’s the formal step toward closing that chapter for good.
Table of Contents
What is a Record Suspension?
A Record Suspension doesn’t erase your criminal record, but it removes it from public visibility in the database. That means it won’t show up when employers, volunteer organizations, landlords, or educational institutions require background
checks.
For most people, this means an easier time in getting hired, renting a home, travelling abroad, applying for citizenship, or sponsoring other family. However, it’s important to understand that a Record Suspension does not guarantee entry into other countries. For example, USA border officials can still find past Canadian convictions and do not recognize Canadian Record Suspensions or pardons.
Are You Eligible?
Eligibility depends on the nature of your offence and how much time has passed since you completed your sentence. You can apply if you were convicted, fully served your sentence including probation, fines, and restitution, and stayed trouble-
free during the required waiting period. Certain offences and convictions may not be eligible though.
The waiting period is five years for summary offences and ten years for indictable ones. But the clock only starts once all parts of your sentence are fully completed, including probation and the payment of fines. You also need to show you’ve been living as a law-abiding citizen and can demonstrate having good conduct since then.
What Does the Process Look Like?
Applying for a Record Suspension is not as simple as filling out one form. It’s a multi- step process that requires gathering detailed personal and legal documentation.
You’ll need to obtain your criminal record and submit your fingerprints to the RCMP, get court documents to confirm that all parts of your sentence were completed, and write a statement describing how your life has changed, why you are seeking the suspension, and how you’ve stayed out of trouble.
Once your application is complete, it must be submitted to the Parole Board of Canada. Mistakes, even small ones, can cause months of delay. If everything is accepted, your application will be reviewed, and you will eventually receive a decision by mail. This can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the nature of your offence.
Why Consider a Record Suspension?
For many people, sealing a criminal record opens the door to better job opportunities, particularly in fields like healthcare, finance, or education, where background checks are the norm. It also makes it easier to volunteer and apply for
full citizenship.
Even more importantly, it provides peace of mind. Knowing that your past won’t resurface every time someone requests a background check can lift a weight that carries for years.
Do keep in mind that the record is not erased completely. In some cases, the information may still be accessed by certain government agencies.
Can You Do It on Your Own?
Many people try to apply without legal help and find the whole process overwhelming. Applications are often rejected or returned because of missing information, outdated forms, or poorly written personal statements. Each rejection can add months or years to the process.
A lawyer can guide you through an eligibility assessment, help collect and verify your records, ensure your application meets technical requirements, and assist with your personal statement that strengthens your case. Most importantly, they can help you avoid costly delays or denials.
How Shim Law Can Help:
At Shim Law, we work with individuals who are ready to move on from past mistakes and clear the path to a better future. Our team will assess your situation, explain your options, and walk you through every stage of the process, from gathering documents to submitting the application, and responding to requests made from the Parole Board. If you’re thinking about taking this step, we’re here to help.
Call us at (587) 391-9580 or visit us online to request a private consultation.
Take the First Step Towards a Strong Defence:
If you are facing criminal charges and worried about the possibility of jail, do not delay. A Conditional Sentence Order may be available, but early representation is essential.
Contact Shim Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. We can assess your eligibility, explain your legal options, and fight to protect your freedom, your future, and your reputation.
Call (825) 521-9666 or request a consultation online. Let us help you take control of your defence.
See More Blogs
