Record Suspensions

What you need to know

A criminal conviction can follow you for life. It can impact your ability to get a job, travel internationally, volunteer, or even rent an apartment. But in Canada, there is a process that allows individuals with past criminal convictions to move forward—by applying for a record suspension, commonly referred to as a pardon.

A pardon doesn’t erase a conviction, but it does separate it from your active criminal record, which means it will no longer show up in most standard background checks. This can be life-changing.

However, not everyone qualifies automatically. There are strict eligibility criteria, specific waiting periods, and a detailed application process. Mistakes or missing information can result in delays—or a denial.

That’s where we come in.

Implications

Without a pardon, a criminal record can:

  • Prevent you from travelling to the United States and other countries.

  • Stop you from applying for certain jobs or professional licences.

  • Keep you from volunteering with vulnerable groups, including children and seniors.

  • Interfere with your ability to adopt or gain custody of a child.

  • Create serious embarrassment and stigma in your community or workplace.

Even if your conviction happened decades ago, these consequences don’t simply disappear over time. You must take action to set things right.

How we can help

At Dunn & Associates, we help clients take control of their future by guiding them through the pardon process from start to finish. Here’s what we can do:

  • Assess your eligibility: We’ll review your record and let you know if and when you qualify to apply.

  • Manage your paperwork: The application process involves police records, court documents, references, and more. We’ll ensure everything is accurate and complete.

  • Reduce your risk of denial: We know what the Parole Board of Canada looks for and how to avoid common pitfalls.

  • Act quickly and discreetly: We move fast, and we protect your privacy.

Whether you're dealing with an old theft charge or a more serious conviction, we can help you prepare a strong application.

Eligibility and waiting periods

To apply for a pardon in Canada, you must:

  • Have completed all aspects of your sentence (jail time, probation, fines).

  • Wait a specific period of time from the completion of your sentence:

    • 5 years for summary convictions.

    • 10 years for indictable convictions.

  • Demonstrate that you have been a law-abiding citizen since completing your sentence.

Certain offences, like those involving serious sexual crimes against minors, are ineligible for a record suspension.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we can help clarify your status and what your next steps should be.

What if you’ve been denied before?

A previous denial does not always mean you’re out of options. In many cases, applications are denied due to technical errors or insufficient supporting material. We can review your past application and determine whether a new, stronger submission is possible.

Strategies for success

Every record suspension application is different. Our team tailors your file to highlight the strengths of your rehabilitation and your contribution to society. We focus on:

  • Demonstrating good conduct: We help you document your employment, volunteer history, and law-abiding behaviour.

  • Presenting compelling personal statements: We work with you to craft a narrative that reflects genuine rehabilitation and remorse, where appropriate.

  • Clarifying complex records: If your charges span multiple jurisdictions or involve outdated court systems, we track down what’s needed to build a complete application.

Call us. We can help.

If a criminal record is holding you back, don’t wait another year to clear your name. Our Calgary lawyers are here to help you pursue a record suspension with confidence, clarity, and discretion.