Can you work in forestry with a criminal record?

Forestry and other outdoor jobs are attractive to a lot of people. These jobs allow you to get outside, challenge yourself and avoid the politics and boredom of an office desk job. A criminal record can hold a person back in some types of forestry and other outdoor jobs.

Generally speaking, a criminal record is not going to be a big deal in logging or tree-planting. However, there could be exceptions.

One issue might arise if a person’s driving record is checked to ensure that they can be trusted with the company truck. In this case, convictions for offences such as DUI or dangerous driving might cause the company to reconsider a job offer. If you are applying for jobs where you are responsible for a vehicle and you have driving convictions, you might run into problems.

Remote camps are another place where you might face a record check. When employers want people to live in close quarters, they are going to be concerned about things like drunk driving, fighting, drugs and theft. Many of these camps have zero tolerance for these things and will also conduct record checks to weed out the possibility before it happens.

Forestry protection

If you want to work on the forestry protection side of things, for example as a wildlife officer or park ranger, you will likely be in charge of enforcement. In this case, a clear record would be essential.

Wildland forest firefighting

It’s generally possible to get a job in forest firefighting with a criminal record, though a record check may be required.

What can you do?

If you want to get a job in any industry, a RecordSuspension can help. A Record Suspension is a Canadian pardon. It seals a criminal record in the national database of criminal records, which is called CPIC. This will allow you to submit clear background checks to potential employers.

To find out more or get started on your application, contactus today at 1-866-972-7366.

What types of jobs require a criminal record check?

Any employer in Canada can ask a candidate about criminal convictions. In most cases they cannot ask about convictions that have been pardoned or sealed by a Record Suspension.

Background checks are becoming more common as it is easier and more affordable to conduct them. As well, companies are becoming more sensitive to the possibility of risk. You will likely to be asked for a background check at some point in your career if you are working for others.

Background checks are not uncommon even in entry-level positions such as salesclerk, cashier, gas station attendant, etc. However, there are some types of positions in society that are more likely to require background checks.

Jobs that ask for a background check

Teachers: Without a doubt, if you want to be a teacher in Canada, you will need a background check. Keep in mind that if you have any violent or sexual offences on your record, they can be disclosed even it you have a pardon. This is because most school boards will require teachers to undergo a vulnerable sector screening, which goes further than most record checks.

Daycare worker, child care: Working with children in any capacity will usually require a background check including a vulnerable sector screening.

Counsellor, social worker, psychologist: Anytime you are working with vulnerable children, teens or adults, you may be requested to get a background check.

Healthcare: Background checks are very common in the healthcare industries. Illness, age or disability can cause a person to be deemed vulnerable, so you would need to get a vulnerable sector screening in Canada.

Lawyer, paralegal: You may need a record check to join the regulatory association in your province. Whether a record will prevent you from practicing is usually determined on a case by case basis.

Transportation: The primary concern for employers in the transportation industry is safety. Therefore, any type of driving charge such as dangerous driving or DUI could prevent you from working as a pilot, railroad engineer, truck driver, taxi driver, bus driver, or any other area where you responsible for the safety of others. Possession or trafficking is a big concern for people who work as baggage handlers or in shipping of any type. If you work at a port or airport, you may need a security clearance, which will require a criminal record check.

Real Estate Agent: If you want to work as a real estate agent, your provincial licensing organization may require a background check. This is because you will have a high position of trust with the clients you are serving.

Accountant, bookkeeper, financial advisor: Needless to say, a dishonest financial professional can do a lot of damage to their clients and others. In most cases the regulatory authority will require a record check. Even if there is no regulatory authority for the position you are applying for many employers will also require a record check.

Government jobs: Governments are under a lot of scrutiny. The public pays the salary and questions are asked every day. As a result, most government employers will require background checks. Whether or not the record will prevent a person from getting the position is usually decided on a case by case basis. 

What can you do?

If you have a criminal record, you should consider applying for a Record Suspension following the waiting period. This will help ensure that you can apply for almost any job for which you are qualified. The current waiting periods are:

Summary: Five years

Indictable: Ten years

The period of eligibility is calculated from the date that you complete your sentence.

If you would like to know if you are eligible to apply for a Record Suspension, contact us today at 1-866-972-7366.

Job hunting with a criminal record

If you have a criminal record, the best thing you can do to ensure your future job prospects is to get a Record Suspension from the ParoleBoard of Canada.

However, before you are eligible to apply for a Record Suspension, there is a lengthy waiting period, which is:

• 5 years for Summary convictions
• 10 years for Indictable convictions

During this time there are things that you can do to make looking for a job easier.

Look for jobs that are less likely to require criminal record checks.

There are many types of positions where criminal records are more common. These include:

• Financial positions
• Security and law enforcement
• Working with children
• Working in health care
• Jobs where international travel is required, such as airline pilot or truck driver

Those are the types of jobs that are least likely to hire someone who cannot produce a clear criminal record check. This does not mean that it is impossible to get a job in these industries. It just means that it could be harder.

What types of areas offer more opportunities?

The second thing you will want to think about is how you can maximize your opportunities to find work with a record.

Apply at smaller companies

A lot of large corporations have blanket policies about criminal records. This means that a person with a record can be turned down even if the hiring manager thinks they would be a good fit. 

However, in a smaller company, you may even be hired by the owner, who may be willing to overlook your record if he thinks you are the best person for the job. Another positive aspect about working for a small company is that background checks are likely not a budgeting priority unless absolutely necessary.

Work in areas where there is a skills shortage

You may have to upgrade your skills depending on the position. However, there are a lot of jobs in Canada where there is a constant struggle to find qualified workers. These include computer jobs such as programming and software development, trades jobs such as auto repair, construction and plumbing, agriculture, manufacturing, and kitchen jobs. Although truck driving is an area where you might need to be bondable and able to cross the border, it’s also an area where there is a shortage of workers. You may find some companies willing to hire you anyway on the understanding that you will eventually get a Record Suspension and / or US Entry Waiver.

Volunteer

Volunteering can be a great way to meet people and to put positive experience on your resume. If you are having a hard time finding a job, volunteer work can build your skills and your network.

Self-employment

If you have skills and the tools to do the job, consider self-employment. Some opportunities will require a large investment such as leasing a store-front, while others will require a minimal one, such as a website or some advertising. Whatever you decide to do, make sure there is nothing standing in your way, such as licensing that requires a criminal record check. Some municipalities require a criminal record check for all business licences.

Government and non-profit programs

There are programs available through the government, libraries and non-profit agencies to help people find work. These include programs for older workers, self-employment, skilled trades and more. They all have different eligibility criteria. You can also visit a government job centre for counselling and help with your resume and cover letter.

Keep in touch with your network 

Create a LinkedIn profile and fill it with details of your professional qualifications. Go to job fairs and relevant events in your community. Let friends and extended family know you are looking for work.

What if you are asked for a background check?

Any company can ask you for a background check whether there is a skill shortage or not. However, this does not automatically mean that you won’t get the job. If the record is unrelated to the position at hand, the employer may be willing to overlook it.

You may find out about the record check when filling out the application form. Or, you may be told during the interview. If it comes up, you should talk to the employer about the record. Admit that it happened. If it was years ago, mention that. Take responsibility for your actions. Explain how you’ve moved on from the experience and reiterate your qualifications and interest in the job. Keep your comments brief.

As soon as you are eligible, apply for a Record Suspension. Once you have a Record Suspension, you will not need to disclose your record unless you are working with children or vulnerable adults and you have a related record.

To get started on a Record Suspension application, contact us today at 1-866-972-7366.

Finding a job with a criminal record

Everyone makes mistakes. Unfortunately, a criminal record can pose a major frustration for many people. One area where criminal records definitely create obstacles is in the area of employment.

This is unfortunate because often people with records need the psychological boost and steady routine that employment offers in order to get back on track.

If you have a criminal record, it’s important not to become discouraged. Here are some tips for keeping your life on track:

Be flexible: Maybe your dream job is in health, or security, or even working with kids. However, every time you look at job postings, you see that they require a background check. You might have to adjust your expectations if you want to move forward. Think about going back to school and pursuing Plan B, or finding a job in a similar field that doesn’t require a background check.

Network: It’s often said that the unadvertised job market is the best the source of employment. Get out and network at events in your industry or the industry where you want to find work. Once people have a chance to get to know you, they may not care so much about a past record.

Make your own opportunities: Have you ever dreamed about opening your own shop or restaurant? How about fixing cars or building websites? Maybe you love animals and would like to pamper them with a doggie daycare or dog walking business. The opportunities for self-employment are endless. If you are on Employment Insurance, you might qualify for funding.

Get support from family and friends: When you are dealing with rejection from companies, it can be very discouraging. Talk to your friends and family. These connections can help assure you of your value and build your confidence.

Get resume advice: Pass your resume around to friends, teachers, professors and others for advice. They may be able to pick out errors that you overlooked or to help you make your accomplishments stand out more. You can also get advice for free at government employment offices. Make an appointment to speak to a counsellor. If you are a student or recent grad, your college or university likely has an employment office. Public libraries are another good place to find career resources. 

  

Apply for a Record Suspension: When you receive a Record Suspension (pardon), you will no longer need to worry about employers being able to access your record. In most cases, you can apply for any kind of job, such as health or security. (There are some exceptions around certain types of offences if the employer is conducting a Vulnerable Record Check.) 

Are you ready to put the past behind you and realize your true potential? Contact us today.

How to deal with a background check for a new job

Job interviews are stressful for everybody, but for those with criminal records, the anxiety and disappointment can be heightened by the dreaded “background check.”

In most cases, people with criminal records are not unreliable or dishonest. Often the events are well in the past and the applicant has changed and grown. However, these past mistakes come up again and again every time they change positions or face a lay-off.

These days, it’s estimated that a person may change jobs 10 to 15 times during their career. That’s a lot of interviews.

In most cases an employer won’t ask for a record check unless they are seriously considering hiring the person. However, with the advent of the digital age, more and more companies are offering to perform this service. All those different companies are marketing to employers and convincing them that they should check out new and even current employees.

How will I know if the company is going to do a background check?

If you are filling out an application form online or at the place of business, it will often include a notification that a background check will be done. Sometimes it will even include a checkbox for you to consent to the background check. Sometimes it’s buried in the fine print. Other times, it will be vaguer and say that a check may be done depending on the relevance to the position.

Sometimes you won’t be notified until you get to the interview stage. In this case, the interviewer may tell you, or you may be asked to sign a piece of paper to consent to the background check.

Then there’s the possibility that the employer will offer you the job and only then mention there’s just the one formality of the background check. By this point you may have consented already by signing the application form or checking a box.  

What should you tell the employer about your record?  

If you have consented to the background check or been advised that one will take place, it’s best to assume that the employer will be looking at your record. Facing reality will give you an opportunity to address it and dispel any concerns.

If the employer doesn’t bring it up, but you know you have consented on the application form, you should raise it casually towards the end. By the end of the interview, you will have had a chance to sell yourself as a credible candidate and build rapport with the interviewer. When you do bring it up, some things to focus on are:

•  The time since the event happened
•   How you’ve changed since then (give examples, such as family commitments, volunteering, education and career)

Then bring the conversation back to your skills and how they relate to the position.

If the employer asks for the background check for the first time during the interview, have a response prepared. Go over the same topics (how long ago it was) and how you’ve demonstrated your responsibility since then.

What about the last scenario in which the employer has basically offered you the job and is now bringing up the record check for the first time?

In this case, you may need a minute to clear your head. Ask the employer if you can call him or her back if necessary. However, it’s important to speak up. If the employer conducts the check, he or she may feel you tried to hide it from them.

Address the issue in the same way as you would have in the interview focusing on the incident being in the past and on how much has changed since then.

Seal your record

If enough time has passed since you completed the conditions of your conviction, you should apply for a Record Suspension. This will seal your record so that you can apply for positions confidently. Although having a record does not prevent you from finding a job, it can make it harder.

With a record suspension you’ll have the opportunity to explore any position without fear of the dreaded background check.

If you are thinking of changing positions or want to open up new career opportunities for yourself, contact us today for a free consultation about how a Record Suspension can help you.   

How does the oil sands downturn affect people with criminal records

Many people have found that their criminal record is not a major barrier to finding work in natural resources and the oil sands. There are also a number of related industries in Alberta that have benefited from the high oil prices we used to see.

Construction, driving trucks and providing services to communities in Alberta have created great opportunities for people from across the country.

Many people used the money they made in the oil sands economy to support families in BC, Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes.

Unfortunately, these days it’s harder and harder to find jobs in the oil sands. Companies have scaled back operations and are not investing as much in development.

This leaves people with criminal records wondering if they can still succeed as an Alberta oil sands worker or in the many related industries. What about the major pipeline projects under consideration? Bringing oil to overseas markets may be one way to boost the economy, but the provincial and federal governments are moving cautiously, especially on the Northern Gateway project.

What this means for people with criminal records

Meanwhile, people with criminal records are experiencing a double burden. As the economy drags, there are more candidates for fewer positions. Faced with multiple qualified candidates, employers become more interested in conducting background checks before hiring.

Unable to find work in the resource industry, many qualified workers start investigating retraining options or jobs in the service sector. Things like social work, security, trucking and law enforcement may all require background checks. Providing services to businesses and homeowners such as plumbing, electrical wiring, painting and landscaping may require you to be bondable.

What are the options?

If you are concerned about how the economic downturn might affect your future opportunities, you might want to consider a RecordSuspension. A record suspension will seal your record from employers so that it won’t turn up during background checks. This will allow you to qualify for any type of job or retraining program. You’ll be bondable, which means you can apply for jobs where trust is important, such as when entering people’s homes, driving trucks and company vehicles, or providing security to businesses.

If you think a Record Suspension can help you weather the economic downturn and apply for new opportunities, please contact us today for a free consultation. 

Can you be a truck driver with a criminal record?

If your goal is to become a truck driver, you don’t need to give up just because you have a criminal record in your past.

Truck driving school: Some truck driving schools will conduct a criminal record check before accepting your application, but most won’t. In many cases they will warn you that your possibilities might be limited by your past record.

Record checks: Many truck driving companies will tell you that they are going to do a criminal record check. This is very easy for them to do because there are companies that provide this service, so you should take this seriously. Often it will come up during the initial phone call, but it is more likely that it will be raised during the first interview.

Most companies will not do a background check unless they are seriously considering hiring you. That’s why it’s important to be honest and forthright with the interviewer about your past record. He or she will inform you when they are going to do a background check. This is when you should discuss the issue seriously with them. Tell them what happened and how your life has changed since the event. Avoid appearing angry and defensive about the past. Your job is to convince them that they can trust you and the events are behind you. Highlight other areas in your life where you have demonstrated responsibility, such as work and volunteer experience.

Unfortunately, in some cases a criminal record will appear to be an insurmountable barrier to some employers. While this could be due to stigma, it’s also important to remember that the employer may have financial pressures such as insurance. Truck drivers are responsible for carrying thousands of dollars of merchandise in one load. These could be items such as computers, designer goods and furniture. A truck driver needs to be bondable in order to do the job.

What does bondable mean?

Bondable means, basically, that you are able to be insured. Technically, everyone is bondable, but an insurance company may come back with a quote that’s far above what the employer is willing to spend if they find out you have a criminal record.

Applying for a pardon

If you are worried about criminal background checks and how they could affect your career, you should consider applying for a pardon. A pardon will seal your record and enables you to receive protection against discrimination under human rights legislation in some provinces. Keep in mind that a pardon will not seal your driver’s abstract. If you were convicted of impaired driving or another vehicle-related offense, it could still affect your or your employer’s insurance.  

Crossing the border

The other issue that could stand in your way as a driver is the ability to cross the border. Apply for an entry waiver to ensure that you are able to enter the United States. It is much easier to be approved for a waiver if you do it in advance of travel.

If you are serious about a truck driving career, a criminal record doesn’t have to be an insurmountable obstacle. Contact us for a free consultation. 

Consider Volunteering as a Way to Find Employment

Volunteering your time, services, talents, and energies is actually a multi-faceted endeavor with a great deal of benefits. In addition to helping others, it will help you as well. Have you just recently graduated? Are you seeking a change in your career path? Are you reentering the work force after a period of time? Do you seek new challenges? Finding employment nowadays can be a challenge, but you mustn’t become discouraged. Perusing the classified ads in the local newspapers, searching the jobs postings online, or contacting recruiters, all takes time, but will eventually yield potential prospects.


Also, since networking is an excellent way to discover that “hidden” job market, the source of unsolicited jobs, you might consider volunteering, which could be thought of as a non-networking way of networking. It is particularly appealing if you are somewhat introverted or simply aren’t comfortable trying the conventional ways to network.

Through volunteering, you expose yourself to other people with similar interests. Along the way, you are bound to learn new skills as you take on the duties and responsibilities for the activity you have committed yourself to. Your leadership potential, willingness to take initiative, desire to assist, ability to function as part of a team – all these assets will certainly be discovered. You could very likely be working next to well-connected people, even a senior executive of a company that you are considering targeting.

When deciding where to volunteer, one prospect to consider is trade shows, a highly targeted way of exposing yourself to people in your field. Another is civic activities. Many chambers of commerce plan and staff local events and are always looking for people to help. And be sure to search the internet – countless opportunities are available.

If you feel you are being held back from using this method of finding employment because you have a criminal record, you should definitely contact Pardon Services Canada to obtain a Pardon. A Client Specialist will ensure that your application will be processed expeditiously and you will be kept informed at each stage of the process.

Your Resume vs. the Job Application Form

When you prepare your resume, you try to design it to represent yourself in a way that will entice an employer to want to meet you. And some items might cause you to worry about how they will portray your work and education history. For example, should you say that you graduated from university, when in fact you are short two or three courses? Or, should you say that you resigned from a job last year, when you were actually laid off? And, should you fudge the dates of entries to obscure a period of time when you were not in school and not employed?


Such temptations are understandable, but are they worth using? The information that you provide on your resume, and how you express it, is entirely up to you. After all, the resume’s sole purpose is to get you the interview, during which you can elaborate on your skills and abilities.

If you are fortunate enough to get your foot in the door, the interview will undoubtedly expect you to expand on the details you’ve given in your resume as well as discuss many other related and unrelated aspects of your life history. Inevitably, any shortcomings that your resume has could easily be revealed. As well, you will quite likely be asked to complete a job application form.

Three major aspects of the application form are worth noting: Your resume is not a legal document, but the application form is; its design requires that you provide particular information, completing sections appropriately; and you are required to sign and date it to attest to the fact that everything you’ve supplied is the truth.

What you state on your application form must complement your resume; otherwise, your integrity will come into question. And the now-commonplace background check that employers undertake will verify your education, your work history, and your criminal background, should you have one. Recruiters might also run a credit check if you are applying for work in the financial field or a motor vehicle record check if you are required to drive for your job. In fact, many companies will run these checks regardless of the position for which you have applied.

Therefore, you need to be completely honest and truthful when completing the application form, being as specific as possible, because the details will be verified. And should anything that misrepresents you be discovered after you’ve being hired, the consequences could be dire.

If you want to leave a job off either your resume or the application form, do so; but do not adjust the dates of other entries to cover the time period. If the dates are not consistent with the resume’s data, both documents will come into question and cause the recruiter to question your sincerity and honesty.

The application form will likely ask if you have ever been convicted of a crime. This includes DUIs, which is the most common charge that will show up on background checks. If you have a criminal record, you could still quite possibly get hired; but if you do not disclose it, you will not likely get hired if this omission is revealed, simply because you lied. Your criminal record could be overlooked, depending upon what you did, how long ago it happened, and your explanation of the incident.

So be honest and forthright with all your details. Better still, if you have a charge that can be expunged, you should apply for a Pardon. This process will seal your record, removing it from federal databases so that it is no longer visible and cannot be accessed. Pardon Services Canada can assist you. A Client Specialist will ensure that all the required forms are created and compiled to support your application. Pardon Services Canada’s pro-active approach ensures that your case is processed expeditiously and you will be kept informed at each stage of the process. Your pardon is guaranteed.

Social Media Background Screening - What Impact Will It Have on the Job Seeker?

Prior to making a hiring decision, companies now commonly undertake criminal background checks and credit checks to verify the information gleaned from resumes and during interviews. Understandably, they want to ensure a safe working environment for their staff, service providers, and clients.


This verification process is often outsourced to companies that provide these services. Interestingly, another similar service is being offered – social media background screening, which investigates social and professional networking sites, blogs, and wikis, along with video and picture sharing websites. Social Intelligence is one such company that checks sites like Facebook, Myspace, Flickr, LinkedIn, and Craigslist for employers.

Social Intelligence doesn’t store social data. Rather it looks at up to seven years of a person’s history, but stores nothing. As well, it doesn’t pass on identifiable photos. In fact, it screens for only a few things: aggressive or violent acts or assertions, unlawful activity, discriminatory activity (for example, making racist statements), and sexually explicit activity. Also, it uses only the data an employer provides to run a search. This tends to be standard issue information from an applicant’s resume: a person’s name, university, email address, and physical location. Thus, ultimately, the applicant is the one supplying all the data for a background check.

These kinds of services actually make a lot of sense. Employers would have to be unwise not to Google job candidates; yet, it seems better for both the employer and the candidate to have a disinterested third party perform such background checks. If the prospect of having social media screening seems discomforting, job candidates should realize that most employers are already conducting such reviews. In surveys, most employers admit that they check out applicants’ Facebook pages, blogs, and Google footprints. One might well wonder whether this could be a violation of the law if the employer sees something that shouldn’t be seen (like religion or sexuality) or decides not to hire someone based on something that’s been found.

When employers work with companies that perform social media background screening, applicants are presented with reports on the information found. Then applicants can challenge the legitimacy of the information (just as they can with a credit check) or know what might be hurting their employment prospects. The process seems to be providing a service not just for employers, but also for job applicants.

Pardon Services Canada can assist with Criminal Background Checks, as well as Removing a Criminal Record through obtaining a Canadian Pardon and acquiring a US Entry Waiver. A Client Specialist will provide a complimentary private consultation to answer any questions, keeping all information strictly confidential.

How Will Your Facebook Page Measure Up?

Job seekers are now, for the most part, aware that corporate human resource departments undertake traditional background checks and credit checks as part of the assessment of an applicant’s eligibility. Understandably, when considering candidates for hiring or promotion, companies have an obligation to assess employment risks. But a new dimension is surfacing: Social network screening and monitoring is now becoming part of the process.

It is undeniable that companies will search the web to investigate prospective employees, using Google on an ad hoc basis for quick online searches. And another aspect is monitoring of online habits of potential and existing employees. A company is exposed to risk if it’s not conducting due diligence on an employee who is publicly behaving on the Internet in a way that indicates risk for the organization.

Social media networks, including Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Flickr, Youtube, LinkedIn, and individual blogs are the target of such scrutiny. One might well feel that such investigation constitutes an invasion of privacy, whereas others say that accessing anything “published” is fair game. Regardless, people currently seeking employment are well advised to ensure that their online sources reflect as positively as possible on their judgment, remembering that a Facebook page can serve to boost a job seeker’s odds of landing a job. A professional presentation and the right affiliations can’t hurt!

Job seekers who have a criminal record can also benefit from obtaining a pardon, which will seal the record so that it is no longer visible. Contact a Client Specialist at Pardon Services Canada for a complimentary private consultation. All information related to the pardon process is handled discreetly and kept strictly confidential.

Now Is the Time to Prepare for the Future

The anticipated tough-on-crime legislation that the Conservative government has promised is expected to comprise approximately ten bills addressing justice and public-safety issues. Although specifically which bills would be included is unknown, one that is most disconcerting is Bill C-23B.


Bill C-23B, intended to eliminate pardons for serious crimes, would replace the term “pardon” with “record suspension” and make the process of removing one’s record more difficult, more time-consuming, and more costly, and would allow a record suspension in more limited circumstances. Therefore, anyone with a criminal record should begin the process of applying for a pardon as soon as possible.

Since pardons in Canada are going to be more difficult to obtain due to the proposed eligibility requirements and increased submission fees, consulting a Client Specialist at Pardon Services Canada is the best method to achieving this goal. The complete application process will be handled professionally, efficiently, and discreetly. As well, Pardon Services Canada guarantees results. Anyone uncertain as to whether or not he qualifies for a pardon can request a complimentary private consultation.

Another consideration to keep in mind is the fact that United States border agents are turning people with a criminal record away much more frequently. Obtaining a US Entry Waiver is the only secure way to be allowed to enter the United States. A waiver is also required for individuals who have been deported, agreed to voluntary departure, overstayed a previous period of admission, or have been barred entry at any time. Since the requirements are different at each district Department of Homeland Security office, having Pardon Services Canada assist is the most prudent way to obtain a waiver.

Also, people charged with a criminal offence for which there is no conviction are affected. A criminal record results even if the charge is dismissed, withdrawn, or stayed. However, the police file for such cases can be deleted.

Pardon Services Canada offers a complimentary private consultation for anyone wanting to apply for a pardon, to have his police file deleted, or to obtain a US Entry Waiver. Speak to a Client Specialist toll free at 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1.866.972.7366).

Proactive Approach to Job Hunting via Background Checks

Companies are now routinely carrying out background verification of their new as well as existing employees, with human resource officials cross-checking every detail of job applicants before hiring them. The employee verification process includes determining the genuineness of work experience, educational documents, and existence of any criminal record.


Global recession, along with recent HR scams such as the fake pilot scam, has led to more comprehensive scrutinizing of employees. Now a niche industry has evolved: Companies are increasingly outsourcing the employee verification process to specialized third-party agencies to verify every detail of the applicant. This industry is growing at the rate of 30-40% annually. The focus has been more on newcomers rather than existing employees. However, more companies are undertaking reviews of current employees as well.


Many Canadians have realized the value associated with obtaining a Canadian criminal pardon, recognizing that it improves their employability and career advancement prospects – plus its relieving benefit of eliminating the shame, embarrassment, inconvenience, and fear that its disclosure could cause. Among the advantages in obtaining a pardon: The Canadian Human Rights Act protects individuals who have received pardons from discrimination, particularly from employers and landlords, and the Criminal Records Act eliminates the need for employees to reveal pardoned convictions on government employment forms.


Anyone who has a criminal record can apply for a pardon once his sentence is completed and a certain period of time has passed. Since a person’s criminal record background is readily available to the general public and can be easily accessed, and since companies are increasingly including background checks in the hiring as well as the promoting process, it stands to reason that a person seeking employment or advancement would benefit from securing a pardon with the assistance of Pardon Services Canada, the first and most trusted pardon company in Canada.


A prospective employee with a criminal record has less chance of being hired compared to an equally qualified person without a record. Even if an applicant’s charges are minor, they may cause employers to question the person’s character, honesty, and integrity. Many employers consider the existence of a record to be grounds for immediate rejection.


Most Canadian criminal records can be removed with a pardon, ensuring that all of a person’s criminal records and charges are separated from other personal records and rendered inaccessible. Pardon Services Canada’s role and familiarity with the pardon process will ensure that all documents required are obtained in a timely manner and that each applicant’s case is processed expeditiously.

Are You Bondable? The Implications for Canadians with a Criminal Record

Many job application forms come with a little tick box asking, “Are You Bondable”. Let’s start with the basics – what does it mean to be bondable before you check that box.

Bondable (as it relates to employment): Ones ability to be insured by the hiring company, so that in the event of theft or loss by the employee the company is insured for the value of the loss. The process requires several checks, namely background (criminal record) and credit checks

                

A company who is looking to hire in various departments will usually ask if the candidate is bondable. Jobs include:

• Positions where  there is  sensitive or valuable company information/data
• Employment that involves the direct handling of cash
• Jobs that involve the use of client financial information (credit card/banking information)
• Client Representative, Service Jobs requiring interaction with customers
• Work in the Vulnerable Sector
• Financial Services and Banking Institutions

This list shows the extreme diversity of employers that have an interest in asking the question ‘Are You Bondable?”

 Another, more discreet reason for asking the question is a result of limits placed on the employer regarding asking questions in regards to criminal records. If you have any sort of criminal record, you must answer “No” to the question of “are you bondable”. This is because when the company who hires you tries to get you bonded the insuring company will complete a background check. If a criminal record comes back with any prior conviction you will be declined the bond and will probably face repercussions from the employer.

Companies are increasingly using the “bondability check” to screen applicants for criminal records. This follows on the increasing use of criminal record checks by employers in all industries throughout Canada.

The solution for Canadians who are faced with the difficulty of getting around the ‘are you bondable’ question is to apply for a Canadian Pardon. A Pardon from the Parole Board of Canada will effectively seal your criminal record. As a result, when those background checks are completed by the insurance company they will see a clear record. This result opens a huge area of possibility for the 13% of Canadians living with a criminal record. Take a step towards improving your future; apply for a Canadian Pardon today. 

Looking For a Job In Canada with a Canadian Criminal Record? What to Know, and How to Get That Dream Job!

Everyone knows, interviewing for a job is stressful. What can be even more stressful is going into an interview with a Canadian Criminal Record. This article addresses what your potential employer can legally ask about your criminal record, what you need to say and ultimately, how to get the job!

            The most important thing is location; different provinces have different restrictions and limitations on employers for what they can ask of prospective clients.

·         Employers in Ontario, British Columbia, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories cannot ask about conviction records nor can employers falling under federal jurisdiction. However, if information about a criminal record is legitimately needed for employment purposes the question can be phrased “Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence for which a Pardon has not been granted?”

·         In Quebec, PEI and the Yukon, a criminal record is considered grounds for discrimination, making this question illegal. Again, unless the knowledge of the criminal conviction is relevant to the position (see below).

·         Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia do not offer protection against discrimination based on criminal records, pardoned or otherwise. Once a Pardon is granted any previous criminal record WILL NOT be accessible to any employer.

It is illegal in all jurisdictions nationwide to ask applicants if they have ever been arrested.

Which employers can request a criminal record check?

Canadian Hiring Practices: all employers may ask for a criminal record check if they have established that it is a Bona Fide Occupational Requirement (BFOR). This is defined as a justifiable reason for discrimination based on a business necessity (being required for the safe and efficient operation of the organization) alternatively, as intrinsically required by the tasks an employee is expected to perform.

What Situations Would Lead to a BFOR

·         Requirement to be bonded

·         Required to work on a secured job-site

·         Employee theft prevention

·         Required to work with/for vulnerable persons

·         Required to travel internationally/cross borders.

What Options Are Available

If you are in the job market or looking for career opportunities and have a criminal record then a Canadian Pardon is the best option available. The Pardon can be attained quickly, confidentially and with financing available. A criminal background check can be done extremely fast and will show you what your potential will see. Then, apply for a Canadian Pardon with an accredited, reputable Pardon Service Company, and get that dream job.