A National Non-Profit Organization for over 32 years.
If you’ve been convicted of a criminal offense in the past, your criminal record could stand in the way of doing some things you’d like to do. Pardons Canada is a non-profit organization that specializes in helping people to remove a past criminal offense in Toronto from the public record.
Record Suspensions, previously known as pardons, allow people who have been convicted of a criminal offense, have completed their sentence and have demonstrated themselves to be law-abiding citizens to have their criminal records removed from the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database. When the federal government issues a Record Suspension, it means that a search done through CIPC will not show a criminal record for the individual in question.
A criminal record can have far-reaching implications and negatively impact your life, no matter how long ago the conviction took place. Here are just a few examples.
The Toronto employment market is very competitive and getting a Record Suspension removes possible obstacles in your way. Many employers require a criminal record search prior to hiring someone, and some have begun using the practice for existing employees who have applied for a promotion. The same frequently holds true for companies who are seeking individuals or businesses for subcontracting work. Even charities conduct criminal record searches for potential volunteers.
If you want to rent a home or apartment in the future, you should be aware that most landlords seek tenants who don’t have a criminal record. It can also make it harder to obtain a mortgage.
Your criminal record could also make traveling abroad, including to the U.S., more difficult or impossible. Without getting a Record Suspension, it also makes obtaining Canadian citizenship or Canadian permanent resident status very difficult.
Without a Record Suspension, a criminal record could stand in your way should you wish to adopt a child sometime down the road. It can also work against you in matters of child custody.
If you think a Record Suspension sounds right for you, contact Pardons Canada right away. Our toll-free number is 1-833-501-3339, or in Toronto, call 647-699-6565. You can also visit our walk-in center located at 45 St. Clair West, Suite 902 between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Our consultations are free, and no appointment is necessary.