Is the National Pardon Centre a government agency?
No! There is no government agency responsible for preparing pardon applications. The National Parole Board of Canada is the government agency responsible for granting your pardon. But it does not prepare paperwork. You can think of the National Pardon Centre in this way: it is similar to having an accountant prepare your tax return on your behalf rather than doing it yourself.
Why should I pay a company to handle my application?
The simple answer to this is that preparing government paperwork that you are not familiar with is no fun. You should also consider what an important matter your pardon application is. A pardon is the removal of a label that says you are a criminal. But if you are reading this site you are probably not a criminal. You are just someone who made a mistake and wants to restore his/her reputation. Having a professional handle your application means that it will get done properly and in a timely manner. There are some things in life worth saving some money on. A pardon is worth saving your reputation on.
Why should I trust the National Pardon Centre to handle my application?
The National Pardon Centre is the ONLY complete pardon and waiver service in Canada. As a police certified fingerprinting agency we can handle your file from start to finish. All other services will outsource crucial steps. We are also the only company with multiple walk in centres, handling both French and English pardon and waiver cases.
Can I handle the application myself?
Yes. But your application cannot be done free of charge and it is much more involved than simply filling in a few forms. Each step in the application must be done in succession, at the right time and in the correct manner. If it is not done correctly the paperwork will expire or will be returned incomplete. If you are planning to prepare your own pardon application please handle it carefully and do not allow the file to remain stagnant.
Are pardons guaranteed?
At the National Pardon Centre we do guarantee your pardon will be granted. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the National Parole Board. And of course you must stay out of trouble with the law while the paperwork is in process.
I have a charge pending that I have not gone to court for. Can I have my old records pardoned in the meantime?
No. A pardon is all or nothing. You must finish everything in court and then wait for your eligibility.
I am not eligible yet. When should I start the process?
Start your application as early as possible. It will save you money and time. We suggest a minimum of 12 months in advance.
My record hasn't affected my life yet, why should I bother with a pardon?
The National Pardon Centre firmly believes that anyone with a criminal record should take the steps necessary to remove it. Obtaining a pardon is in the best interest of yourself, your family and the people you care about. Delaying will only result in higher costs and wasted time.