Criminal Record Suspension (Pardon): Why you Need One
Most Canadians would be likely be surprised to learn just how many of their fellow citizens have a criminal record. According to Public Safety Canada, 3.8 million Canadians had criminal records in 2016. [FN1] To give you a sense of just how many among us have criminal records, the current population of Canada is approximately 38 million. The percentage of Canada’s adult population with a criminal record (approximately 10%) does not appear to have changed significantly in the last two decades. [FN2] Most of those who have a criminal record go on to live law-abiding lives (or on a less optimistic view: are not convicted again if they do not). But as they go forward, they can find their options limited. There is stigma to having a criminal record. That will surprise few. Consider how many people you know have disclosed to you that they have a criminal record. If you are like me (at least outside my professional work as a defence lawyer), very few. ...