The process of obtaining a pardon, record suspension, or U.S. entry waiver can raise many questions. Our organization has over 25 years of experience helping Canadians overcome obstacles created by criminal records. Below, you’ll find answers to some client FAQs about Pardons Canada, covering topics from our history to details about our services.
Pardons Canada FAQs
Are you a government or private company?
We are not a private company. Pardons Canada is a National Non-Profit organization helping Canadians for 25 years. As the leading experts in the obstacles created by criminal records and the removal of criminal records, we are a resource and telephone support line for many organizations and all levels of government including the police and the courts. They send people our way when they cannot help them.
We also assist individuals in preparing their Pardon/Record Suspension application for the Parole Board of Canada and help with U.S. Entry Waivers. We are fully automated and able to communicate electronically (in minutes) with all police and courts across Canada.
Is it true that Pardons Canada teaches the government about criminal records?
Yes. We teach the government and help organizations through our free education program. This program is organized and facilitated through our Community Outreach Co-Ordinator who has been in the industry for over 15 years.
There are many myths and a lot of misinformation that have been circulated to the public about criminal record removal. We educate and act as a resource for many government offices, such as Corrections Canada, Legal Clinics, Probation offices, etc. We built a comprehensive Client Support Center to share some of this information with those interested in our services.
How do most people find out about Pardons Canada?
Most of the people who email, call us or visit our walk-in centre are referrals from one of the over 5,400 organizations and government offices which rely upon our expertise. Legal Aid, Courts, RCMP, Government Employment Centres, Welfare Offices, Addiction Centres, and Police Stations are all examples of such agencies.
Is it true that the counsellors at Pardons Canada are fully trained before speaking with the public or handling files?
Yes. Counsellors at Pardons Canada are experts. The training process is extensive and ensures that the service we provide our clients is exceptional. Read our client testimonials for some of the success stories that make what we do so fulfilling.
Why should I hire Pardons Canada to help me?
The Canadian Criminal Justice system is extensive. Even people who work in this field are often subject to serious misconceptions about criminal record retention policies, procedures and laws.
Pardons Canada is in constant communication with over 1,450 police stations and courts; each with different policies towards record retention and destruction. We are regularly updated on policy and regulation changes and remain current with all applicable municipal, provincial, and federal laws.
Statistics provided by the federal government show that 30-40% of applications prepared by individuals are denied because something is incomplete or incorrect. In many cases, when individuals prepare pardons on their own it ends up costing them more time and money than necessary. It is also necessary to properly analyze your criminal record as you may not even require a Pardon/Record Suspension. Destroying fingerprints and photographs can become complicated depending on the offence and the number of police services involved.
Couldn’t I do it myself for less money?
Yes, if you do the proper paperwork. You don’t need a lawyer to do it but you do need expertise or it may end up costing more. It is not uncommon for people to do the wrong paperwork and end up spending more money or even worse, never getting it done properly.
We analyze your file taking your employment situation, immigration status, work expectations and travel plans into account. We never do unnecessary paperwork, or paperwork that would put you in a worse situation.
Contact Us Today and Leave the Past Behind
If you have more questions or need assistance with a pardon, record suspension, or U.S. entry waiver, we’re here to help. Contact Pardons Canada today for expert guidance and personalized support. Don’t let past mistakes hold you back—reach out now and take the next step towards a brighter future!
