Pardons Canada: Getting a Job with a Criminal Record
Pardons Canada helps many people each day to obtain pardons and U.S. waivers. One of the prerequisites 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 those 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 travelling, so it’s important to get a 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 years ago would not get in the way of eligibility for a Pardon. Since the new rules from Bill C-23 came into effect, the 15-year 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 pleaded 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 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 unable to pay it anyway. 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 you’re aware, to get well-paid jobs, you 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 U.S. entry Waivers, email us at [email protected] or call 1-877-929-6011.
Pardons Canada undertakes all necessary steps and procedures for removing your criminal record, including: Pardons/Record Suspensions, Purges, Photograph & Fingerprint Destruction, and U.S. Entry Waivers.
