How much are the legal fees to apply for a record suspension in London?

A past mistake should not act as a permanent roadblock to your future. Whether you are seeking better employment opportunities in London, applying for housing, or wishing to volunteer, a criminal record can hold you back. In Canada, what was formerly known as a “pardon” is now officially called a record suspension.

Navigating the application process involves coordinating with local police, courts, and federal agencies. While you can apply on your own, many people choose to hire a legal professional to ensure the paperwork is flawless. This guide details the costs and steps involved in clearing your name in London, Ontario.

Step-by-Step Process in London

Obtaining a record suspension is a highly administrative process. You must gather documents from every jurisdiction where you lived or were convicted. Here is how the process generally unfolds. 🔍

Step 1: Get Your Fingerprints

The very first step is obtaining a certified copy of your criminal record from the RCMP. You will need to visit an accredited fingerprinting agency in London or the London Police Service headquarters to have your fingerprints taken and sent to Ottawa.

Step 2: Gather Court Documents

Once you receive your RCMP record, you must obtain your court information. This involves requesting documents from the courthouse where your case was heard, such as the London courthouse at 80 Dundas Street, to prove all fines, victim surcharges, and sentences have been fully completed.

Step 3: Obtain Local Police Checks

You are required to get a Local Police Records Check from the London Police Service, as well as any other police service in cities where you have lived for the past five years. This proves you have been of good conduct since your conviction.

Step 4: Submit to the Parole Board of Canada

After compiling all necessary documents, forms, and a detailed letter explaining how you have rehabilitated, your law firm will submit the final package to the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) for review.

How Much Does it Cost in London?

The cost of a record suspension includes federal fees, local administrative costs, and optional lawyer fees. Here is a breakdown in Canadian dollars (CAD):

• Parole Board of Canada Fee: The mandatory federal application fee is $50.00 CAD.
• Fingerprinting Fees: Having your fingerprints taken locally and processed by the RCMP usually costs between $65 and $85 CAD.
• Court and Police Document Fees: Requesting court records and local police checks generally costs about $20 to $65 CAD per document.
• Law Firm Fees: If you hire a lawyer or a dedicated pardons service in London to manage the entire file, their fees generally range from $1,000 to $2,000 CAD.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Before you can even apply, you must complete your entire sentence (including paying all fines) and wait for a mandatory period: 5 years for a summary conviction and 10 years for an indictable offence. Once your application is submitted, gathering the documents takes about 3 to 6 months. After receiving your file, the Parole Board of Canada takes roughly 6 months to process a summary offence and up to 12 months for an indictable offence. ⏱

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Author: lawyerinfo.ca