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Record suspensions (pardons) in Guelph

We help people in Guelph apply for a record suspension, once called a pardon. It keeps a criminal record separate from other records, so it doesn't show up on most criminal record checks. We work out when you're eligible and prepare your application.

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What a record suspension does

Your record isn't deleted. It's kept apart from active records in the national police database, so a standard criminal record check comes back clear. People apply so they can:

  • Apply for jobs without a record coming up
  • Rent a home
  • Volunteer
  • Go back to school

The Parole Board of Canada decides each application. It can grant or refuse it.

Two Canadian passports, the older and newer designs, on a wooden table

What we do

  1. Work out when you're eligible

    The waiting period starts once every part of your sentence is finished. We work out your date before you spend anything on records.

  2. Gather your records

    Your criminal record from the RCMP, which needs fingerprints, plus court records and a local police check. Fingerprints are taken in the same office, so there's no second trip.

  3. Prepare the application

    We complete the forms and put together the supporting documents that show the Parole Board how you've moved on.

  4. Follow it to a decision

    We send it to the Parole Board of Canada and deal with any questions it asks.

Waiting periods

  • 5years

    after your whole sentence is finished, for a summary conviction offence. That includes paying any fine and finishing probation.

    Criminal Records Act, section 4

  • 10years

    after your whole sentence is finished, for an indictable offence.

    Criminal Records Act, section 4

Questions people ask

Does a record suspension erase my record?

No. The record still exists, but it's kept separate, so it doesn't come up on most checks.

Will it let me travel to the United States?

No. The United States doesn't recognize Canadian record suspensions. If you've been refused entry, you may also need a U.S. entry waiver.

Can every record be suspended?

Not every one. Some offences, including certain sexual offences against children, can't be suspended. We check yours first.

Will it show up on a vulnerable sector check?

It can. Some records can still be flagged on a check for work with children or vulnerable people.

Can a record suspension be taken away?

Yes. It can be revoked if you're convicted of a new offence, or if the application wasn't truthful.

What does the Parole Board charge?

Its application fee has been $50 since January 1, 2022. Court and police records and fingerprints are separate costs.

Laura walked us through the entire process and told us what to expect.

Laura Sippel Google review, record suspension

Talk to us about your matter

Call us or send a short message about what's happening. If a date is coming up, let us know.

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How can we help?

Every message is read personally, and you'll get a reply within 24 hours.

Hearing or deadline in the next 7 days? Please call instead: 1-888-609-4414.

What's it about?

Sending this form doesn't make us your paralegal, and it doesn't stop us from acting for someone else in the same matter. Please don't include confidential details or documents until we've met and you've hired us. Anything you send before then may have to be disclosed if the law requires it.

The office

329 Woolwich Street
Guelph, ON N1H 3W4
Hours
Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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