Each day we speak to people with a criminal record who are seeking to receive a Canada Pardon. We are told many times that having a criminal record can carry a terrible stigma for a long time. If you live in a small community the problem of having a criminal record, no matter how old, can be even worse.
Even if the criminal charge was later withdrawn, dismissed, stayed, absolute or conditional discharged, the criminal record still exists.
Here is a letter we recently received from a client who we helped to get a file destruction for a domestic assault charge that was later withdrawn:
“I received your letter today advising that my Canada Pardon has been completed with the detruction of my photographs and fingerprints and the purging of them from the local police records.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the service you provide. This pardon will enable me to once again participate in volunteer work. I had stopped participating after I was charged as I did not wish to reveal my shame to anyone.”
“Afraid of the stigma attached to a criminal charge, even though it had been resolved prior to court, I was also afraid of becoming the source of common gossip in the small community in which I lived at the time.”
“Thankfully, once again I can participate in volunteerism and begin to enjoy the sense of fulfullment that comes from giving of oneself.”
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons and US Entry Waivers email us at info@pardons.org or call 1-877-929-6011.
