We help many people each day to obtain Canada Pardons and US Waivers. One of the pre-requisites for being eligible for a Pardon is that the person must have served their entire punishment, including a fine payment.
It is sad when we get emails or calls from who who wish to obtain a Pardon for an old criminal record only to discover that they are not eligible because of an unpaid fine. Having a criminal record can prevent you from getting jobs and traveling so its important to get a Canada Pardon so that you can move forward in your life.
In the past, the law stated that an unpaid fine that was MORE THAN 15 yrs ago would not get in the way of eligibility for a Pardon. Since the new rules from Bill C23 came into affect, the 15 yr rule no longer applies. The government is insisting that in order to be granted a Pardon, the fine must have been paid no matter how old the conviction.
Below is an example of a person who emailed us regarding getting a Pardon for an old conviction:
“Approx 10 years ago I plead guilty to break and enter charges and was given a conditional sentence and was given house arrest for 2 years I was also given a $110 000 dollar restitution order as well.”
“At the time my lawyer told me not to worry about the restitution part as given the amount they knew I was un able to pay it anyways. Now today this issue is preventing me from getting a pardon.”
” Is there anything I can do to get around this obstacle as I’m sure your aware getting well paid jobs u need a pardon. I do not have the means and will be unable to pay the $110 000 unless I win the lottery. I appreciate you taking the time to respond.”
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons and US Entry Waivers email us at [email protected] or call 1-877-929-6011.