If you have been accused and charged with a crime and you were fingerprinted, or you attended criminal court as the accused, you do have a criminal record – even if you were found not-guilty. With limited exceptions, criminal records do not automatically get removed. It is up to the individual to take the necessary steps to remove their record.

How to remove a criminal record

How a criminal record will be removed depends on a variety of factors, such as: the outcome of the charges, the number of charges, and the policies of the charging police service. Generally speaking however:

• if the outcome resulted in a not-guilty verdict, a destruction of the person’s fingerprints and photographs and the destruction or sealing of the outcome record is required
• an offence that was discharged requires a purge and a destruction
• a conviction requires a record suspension (formerly called a pardon)

Get help

The rules for destroying, purging or sealing a criminal record are constantly changing. It is a good idea, therefore, to seek the assistance of a record removal professional. To erase your criminal record, call toll-free 1-888-808-3628 or learn more at Pardon Partners. It’s easier than you think.

Whether you have been convicted of a criminal offence, or your charge resulted in an acquittal or dismissal, your job or opportunities for further employment can be affected if you have a criminal record. To get help, ask a lawyer now.

								
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