Canadian pardon denied: how to strengthen your application for next time
Don’t let the possibility of a denial scare you. Pardon applications are granted FAR more often than not. However, if you do find yourself in a situation where the Parole Board of Canada has denied your request don’t despair; you CAN re-apply, and we’re here to offer some tips for success.
Canadian pardons can be denied for many reasons even if you’re eligible (ie. have met the basic requirements such as serving your sentence, paying your fines, and waiting the 3/5/10 years following sentence completion). The most common reason we see for a denial, and the one we’ll focus on here, is your conduct.
Being law-abiding is necessary in order to be viewed in a favourable light by the Parole Board. That doesn’t just mean not being re-arrested. It means parking and speeding tickets, noise and other by-law violations, being suspected of an offence, and just general contact with the police. The Board evaluates any police interaction, regardless of if you were at fault/guilty.
The Board is looking at any police contact following your last conviction, and evaluating most closely anything within the last 5 years. The longer you go without any police contact, the better your chances at getting the pardon. Have you truly changed your life for the better? Your record (actions) speak the loudest in that regard.
Following a denial you can re-apply in one year. Consider the Parole Board’s concerns and do what you can to mitigate them. Keep on your best behaviour, get involved in your community, continue your education/training, hold a steady job, collect letters of reference, attend rehabilitation programs and/or counselling, expand your hobbies and highlight the positives in your life (like family, friends, or your support system). Convince the Board, through your actions, that you deserve the pardon and will remain a contributing member of society.
Lastly, when completing your application, ask for help. We’re here to assist you in putting together the BEST possible documentation so that your pardon has the highest chance of going through. We’ll walk you step-by-step through the process and ensure you have an application that checks all the right boxes for the Parole Board; we have the experience to know what they’re looking for! Consultations are FREE so call today!
