Canadian Pardon Processing Time as Long as 2.5 Years

World events, budget and staff cutbacks, restructuring, and the implementation of new computer systems result in longer wait times for some Pardon applications.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada (PRWEB) September 1, 2004 -- Canadians with multiple or serious criminal convictions are shocked to learn that the processing time for their Canadian Pardon application has ballooned to 30 months. All other applications (one or a couple of minor summary convictions) are being processed in as few as 8 months. This processing time includes the time it takes to obtain all of the supporting documents (RCMP Federal Record, Military Conduct Sheet, Court Documents, Local Police Checks, proof restitution paid to a third party) and the time for the National Parole Board to grant an application.

The reason for the delay with emergency applications is the result of new RCMP policies when ordering the RCMP Federal Record. This step now takes 5 months and cannot be expedited, even in an emergency situation. Only the subsequent time that it takes to process a Pardon can be reduced to 2 to 3 months if an emergency exists.

The National Parole Board is placing an even greater burden on applicants requiring a Pardon to be granted on an emergency basis. For employment purposes, job-hunting ordinarily does not qualify as an emergency (there are exceptions). A job offer with confirmation from an employer that receipt of a Pardon is a condition of employment is usually accepted. However, attempts to obtain this proof often results in the loss of a job offer once an employer learns an applicant has a criminal record.

A Canadian Pardon seals a Canadian criminal record and protects against discrimination. Employers regularly require clear criminal record abstracts for positions in teaching, the medical field, with the government, with those working with children or money, or in a position that would require travel. A criminal record may also prevent enrolment in an educational program or completion of a practicum. It prevents Engineers from performing the full scope of their duties. Applicants may be refused an appointment to become a Commissioner for Oaths. Parents are prevented from volunteering with their childrens school or from adopting. Individuals are denied the opportunity to sit on a Board of Directors. Police are also more likely to pull over your vehicle for inspection if a criminal record is associated with your name. A Pardon does not guarantee legal entry into the United States-a United States Waiver of Inadmissibility (Travel Waiver) may be required.

About Canadian Legal Resource Centre Inc.

Debbie Ward, President of Canadian Legal Resource Centre Inc., has processed over 3000 successful Canadian Pardon and United States Travel Waiver Applications. According to Debbie people hire our company to avoid the hassle and confusion of the do-it-yourself method, long line-ups and the embarrassment of having to go to the police department for fingerprinting, and the risk of refusal. All it usually takes is one 30-minute appointment and then we do the rest."

A free Canadian Pardon Assessment is available at

http://www.canadianlegal.org/pw_assessment.php

For more information about procedures, eligibility, costs, time-lines, travel outside Canada, emergencies, additional free reports or to arrange an interview with CLRC's President Debbie Ward contact:

debbie @ canadianlegal.org

800-320-2477

Canadian Legal Resource Centre Inc.

http://www.canadianlegal.org/

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