Riendeau Avocats

Criminal Defense Attorney for a Pardon Application in the Case of

Criminal Defense Attorneys in Montreal

Criminal Defense Attorney for a Pardon Application

At our law firm, which specializes in pardon applications, we help you overcome past mistakes to build a promising future in Canada. Whether you’re looking to expunge a criminal record, improve your job prospects, or lower your insurance costs, our team will guide you through every step of the process. With our legal expertise and commitment to your success, let us help you turn the page and open the door to new opportunities.

• Employment & Professional Associations • Travel Outside Canada • Citizenship Applications • Housing • Child Care • Employer-Provided Insurance • Adoption

What is forgiveness?

Pardon, now officially known as a “criminal record suspension,” allows a person’s criminal record to be set aside in the Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC) database. Once this suspension is granted, any criminal background check conducted in Canada—whether for employment, housing, or volunteer work—will not reveal that you have a criminal record. This allows you to truly turn the page and regain control of your professional and personal life.

However, it is important to understand that a pardon does not mean that your past is completely erased or obliterated. The Canadian Parole Board maintains this information separately and reserves the right to revoke your suspension if you are convicted of a new offense. Furthermore, although a pardon removes many barriers within Canada, it does not automatically guarantee entry into the United States, where an application for a waiver may still be required.

To be eligible for this application, you must have served your entire sentence (including payment of all fines) and maintained a period of good conduct, which generally ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on the nature of the offense. Our team can handle these complex and rigorous administrative procedures for you.

The process with pardon Canada

The pardon process is a three-step administrative process.
– The first step is to retrieve your criminal record.
• The second step is to gather information from police stations in the cities where you have lived over the past 5 years and from all courthouses and municipal courts where you have been convicted of a criminal offense.
•The final step is to compile the file that will be sent to the Canadian Parole Board. The Canadian Parole Board decides whether to grant the pardon.

Parole board fees (CLCC): $50.

What are the benefits of having a criminal record suspended (pardon)?

Promoting Employment and Housing

A criminal record can be a major obstacle to landing your dream job, joining a professional association, or even finding an apartment. Having your criminal record expunged allows you to successfully pass background checks. This will allow you to apply with confidence and reassure future employers and landlords, without letting past mistakes define you.

Insurance and Citizenship Applications

Having a criminal record greatly complicates the immigration process and can prevent you from obtaining Canadian citizenship or permanent residence. In addition, a pardon greatly simplifies your dealings with insurance companies (auto, home). It prevents you from having to disclose a criminal record, which protects you from being denied coverage or facing exorbitant premiums.

How can we help you?

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way with tailored solutions and ongoing support, whether you need advice, technical assistance, or help defending your rights.

Valérie Riendeau, Esq., 20 years of expertise in pardon applications

With a team of experienced attorneys, some of whom have more than 20 years of practice with the Bar, our firm is the go-to choice for anyone facing financial or economic charges.
Over the years, we have developed specialized and in-depth expertise in cases involving fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. This specialization has enabled us to secure numerous acquittals for our clients, even in cases of extreme technical complexity. We are experts in analyzing financial flows, identifying procedural flaws during commercial searches, and devising the defense strategies necessary to protect your reputation, your career, and your freedom.
But beyond our performance in court, it is our human-centered approach that sets us apart. Recognized for our unparalleled ability to listen, we understand that behind every case is a professional or entrepreneur whose integrity is being called into question. Our top priority remains the rigorous defense of our clients and the strategic resolution of complex cases, often based on a vast amount of documentary evidence.
With our team, you won’t just be a case number; you’ll be listened to, understood, and defended with mathematical precision and absolute vigor.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional to Handle Your Application for a Criminal Record Expungement (Pardon)

Want to put the past behind you? Consult our attorneys in criminal law to understand the eligibility criteria that apply to your situation. After reviewing your case, we will prepare a thorough application to the Canadian Parole Board to maximize your chances of obtaining a criminal record suspension and restoring your reputation.

Why choose Riendeau Avocats for your pardon application?

Accurate Eligibility Assessment

The waiting periods (5 or 10 years) and eligibility criteria are strict. It is essential to consult with an experienced team to review your criminal record and determine the best time to file your application, thereby avoiding costly denials and unnecessary delays.

Comprehensive administrative management

The pardon process requires gathering numerous official documents (criminal records, police reports, fingerprints). At Riendeau Avocats, we handle all of these complex administrative procedures for you to ensure that your application is flawless and complete.

Support for Your Recovery

We believe in second chances. If any obstacles arise while the Commission is reviewing your application, we will work with you to provide the necessary explanations. We work tirelessly to help you regain your full freedom of action and movement.

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A criminal record can have serious consequences for your future

Contact us for fast, personalized answers to your questions.

The Pardon Application Process

Eligibility

To apply for a pardon, you must have completed your sentence and met the waiting period (5 or 10 years, depending on the offense). We will review your case to determine the exact time when you can submit your application.

Administrative Procedures

The process requires the collection of numerous documents: fingerprints, criminal records, and police reports. Our team handles these complex logistical tasks to ensure that the application is complete and error-free.

Expert advice

Given the complexity of the Parole Board’s requirements, our expertise is a major asset. We ensure that your application accurately reflects your rehabilitation to maximize your chances of success.

Your Questions About Applying for a Pardon

Starting the pardon application process can raise many questions. Our FAQ helps you understand the eligibility criteria, processing times, and associated fees, so you can take action quickly and with confidence with the help of our specialized attorneys.

This is an official procedure that allows you to have your criminal record set aside in the CIPC database. Once approved, the record will no longer be visible during a standard background check, thereby making it easier to find employment and housing.

To be eligible, you must have completed all of your sentences. This means that all your fines and surcharges have been paid, your probation periods have ended, and you have served your entire prison sentences.

The statute of limitations depends on the nature of the offense and the date it was committed. Generally, for offenses committed after March 2012, the statute of limitations is 5 years for a summary conviction and 10 years for an indictment (felony).

Yes. Specific, more restrictive rules apply, particularly for sexual offenses committed against children. Conversely, there are simplified procedures for offenses involving the simple possession of cannabis.

Once your complete application has been submitted to the Canadian Parole Board, processing times generally range from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of offense.

You must act promptly: the criminal record certificate and the documents provided by local police stations are valid for a maximum of one year. If they expire before the application is submitted, they will need to be reissued.

Processing times depend on how quickly the relevant authorities (courts, police stations) handle the cases and on the parties’ cooperation in providing the required documents. Our role is to expedite this process as much as possible.

Our fee for handling an application to have a criminal record expunged from start to finish is $900 + tax per case. This fee covers our expertise, document collection, and close monitoring of your application.

Yes, you must budget for the administrative fees charged by the Parole Board (CLCC) , which currently amount to $50. Other related fees may apply, such as costs associated with fingerprinting or local police reports.

The pardon remains in effect as long as you comply with the law. However, the Parole Board reserves the right to revoke the suspension of your criminal record if you are subsequently convicted of a new offense.

Not necessarily. The pardon is a Canadian measure. U.S. customs authorities are not bound by this suspension. If you have previously been denied entry at the border, you may need to apply fora waiver in addition to the pardon.

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Phone: 438-391-8367

Courriel : info@riendeauavocats.ca

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Headshot of Alexandre Giroux, Criminal Lawyer.

Me Alexandre Giroux en

Criminal lawyer

Me Alexandre Giroux (c.j.c. British Columbia) completed the integrated bachelor’s degree in International Studies and Modern Languages ​​from Laval University before obtaining his double degree in civil law and common law from McGill University.

During his studies at McGill University, he was involved with Legal Aid of Montreal, Innocence McGill and Criminal Law McGill. He is also a course assistant for Criminal Justice, the course introducing first-year students to criminal law. Finally, he is an intern with the Honorable Robert Hamel, judge at the Court of Quebec, Youth Division.

Me Giroux began his career in Vancouver, where he practiced in two highly renowned criminal defense firms. He then relocated to Montreal and joined Riendeau Avocats, where he practiced mainly in criminal law. Me Giroux firmly believes in the presumption of innocence and in the right of all accused to benefit from the best possible defence. He can assist you in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Portrait professionnel de Emmy, Avocate en criminel.

Me Emmy Desforges

Criminal Lawyer

Holder of a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Montreal, Emmy finalized her professional career by completing the bar school in 2022. She then joined the Riendeau Avocats team. Throughout her studies, Emmy volunteered with companies that shared her values, such as the pro bono students of Canada. Listening to her clients and passionate, Emmy will be able to support you throughout your legal process.

Portrait professionnel de Carolia Ranivoharindrano, Responsable de la comptabilité.

Carolia Ranivoharindrano

Paralegal

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Concordia University, Carolia decided to continue her studies in Paralegal Technology at CDI College. Passionate about criminal law, she decided to join the Riendeau Avocats team to complete her internship. She loves learning more about the field of criminal and penal law from lawyers. In addition, with her many years of experience in customer service, she knows how to help clients with professionalism and rigor, in order to give the best satisfaction to the firm’s clients.

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Me Anthoni Daoust

Criminal and penal lawyer

Maître Anthoni Daoust, holder of a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Sherbrooke and member of the Bar since 2021, stands out for his incessant quest for knowledge. Indeed, he also obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Quebec, a minor in criminology from the University of Montreal, as well as training in police technology from John Abbott College. This variety of academic training gives him a unique and informed perspective when reviewing his files.

Me Daoust is a lawyer specializing in criminal and penal law, demonstrating a deep commitment to the recognition and respect of individual rights. As a progressive lawyer, he actively engages in a practice aimed at making justice more accessible to all. Thanks to his exceptional analytical and negotiation skills, he manages to obtain optimal settlements in order to guarantee his clients a complete and effective defense.

Portrait professionnel de Gabrielle Lauzon, Avocate en droit criminel et pénal.

Me Gabrielle Lauzon

Criminal and Penal Lawyer

Bachelor of Laws under the COOP regime of the University of Sherbrooke, Me Gabrielle Lauzon joined the Riendeau Avocats team as a criminal lawyer after completed his internship. Me Lauzon shows great compassion towards everyone of its customers and always remains available to help others. Driven by her thirst for knowledge and her dynamism, she devotes herself enormously to each of her causes. Also practicing in criminal law, Me Lauzon is part of the MTL Ticket team and will be able to defend you vigorously for any statement of offense related to the Safety Code road.

Portrait professionnel de Pascal Gilbert, Avocat en droit pénal et criminel.

Me Pascal Guilbert

Penal and Criminal Lawyer

Me Pascal Gilbert is passionate about law. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Montreal, in addition to a bachelor’s degree in history, Me Gilbert joined the Riendeau Avocats team as a criminal and penal lawyer. Listening to the needs of his clients, he will be able to be creative in order to explore all possible avenues throughout your legal process. Mr. Gilbert has excellent research and writing skills and is a keen learner. He wants to advance the law in the best possible direction.

Portrait professionnel de Louisa Heniche, Avocate en criminel.

Me Louisa Heniche

Criminal lawyer

Me Louisa Heniche holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Quebec in Montreal. Passionate about law, she first completed a first bachelor’s degree in international relations and international law, before completing her studies with a bachelor’s degree in law. Her career has been marked by the defense of human rights, as she has long been involved in the international clinic for the defense of human rights at UQAM as well as in the Innocence Project, which helps victims of miscarriages of justice. . Registered on the roll of the bar association, Me Heniche works as a criminal lawyer, in addition to supporting our clients in their requests for forgiveness. She always has the interests of her clients at heart and demonstrates thoroughness and empathy.

Riendeau Avocats white logo.

Me Coralie Leblanc

Paralegal Student – Personal Biography Soon. 

At Riendeau Avocats, we are proud to have highly qualified and professional personnel on our team who defend our clients’ cases with thoroughness and determination. Our lawyers, paralegals, students-at-law, and management and administrative staff work together to provide a full answer and defence to each of our clients, regardless of the nature of the offence.

Riendeau Avocats white logo.

Me Danyka Beauchamp

Paralegal – Personal Biography Soon. 

At Riendeau Avocats, we are proud to have highly qualified and professional personnel on our team who defend our clients’ cases with thoroughness and determination. Our lawyers, paralegals, students-at-law, and management and administrative staff work together to provide a full answer and defence to each of our clients, regardless of the nature of the offence.

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Valérie Paquet

Executive Assistant

Valérie Paquet has been working in the accounting field for over 11 years, and previously held a position in accounting, management and administration for a company with more than 300 employees. Today, she works for our firm as an accounting technician and is in charge of accounting. His many skills in the field enable our team to offer unparalleled customer service.

Me Katherine Hurtubise

Administrative assistant – Personal Biography Soon. 

At Riendeau Avocats, we are proud to have highly qualified and professional personnel on our team who defend our clients’ cases with thoroughness and determination. Our lawyers, paralegals, students-at-law, and management and administrative staff work together to provide a full answer and defence to each of our clients, regardless of the nature of the offence.

François Gamache, directeur des ressources humaines Riendeau Avocats

Me François Gamache

Human Resources Director 

For more than 15 years, François Gamache has been working within our firm as the human resources director who has been successfully balancing team management and operations coordination. Versatile and mindful, he ensures that each employee is happy and fulfilled, which is what makes François a major asset at Riendeau Avocats. He is also in charge of hiring and integrating new employees.

Portrait professionnel de Me Ariane Roberge, Avocate en droit criminel et pénal.

Me Ariane Roberge

Criminal, Youth and Appeals Lawyer

Team Leader

A member of the Bar, Ariane Roberge holds a Bachelor of Laws with a graduate degree in Common Law and Transnational Law (Juris Doctor) from the Université de Sherbrooke. Me Ariane Roberge is a lawyer with a practice focused on criminal and penal law. Although she joined the Riendeau Avocats team as an intern, she quickly made her mark as a lawyer and gained the trust of her clients. Her good energy is always present, Me Roberge is known within our firm as a dynamic lawyer who is 100% committed to each of her causes.

Portrait professionnel de Me Chloé Rainville, Avocate en droit criminel et pénal.

Me Chloé Rainville

Criminal and Penal Lawyer – Personal Biography Soon. 

At Riendeau Avocats, we consider ourselves lucky to have highly qualified and professional staff within our team to defend our clients’ cases with rigor and determination. Our lawyers, our paralegals, as well as our trainees and our management and administrative staff, work together to offer a full and complete defense to each of our clients, regardless of the nature of the offense.

Portrait professionnel de Me Chanèle Lecompte, Avocate en droit criminel et pénal.

Me Chanèle Lecompte

Criminal and Penal Lawyer 

A lawyer practicing mainly criminal and penal law, Me Chanèle Lecompte holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Sherbrooke. During her university career, she had the chance to do an internship with the judiciary, which allowed her to acquire the many assets that she puts forward during her representations before the courts. Passionate about criminal law, Me Lecompte will accompany you and defend you during the different stages of your file, and will listen to you.

Catherine Bernard, avocate en droit criminel à Montréal, se tenant debout à son bureau avec une expression déterminée.

Me Catherine Bernard

Criminal Lawyer – Personal Biography Soon. 

At Riendeau Avocats, we are proud to have highly qualified and professional personnel on our team who defend our clients’ cases with thoroughness and determination. Our lawyers, paralegals, students-at-law, and management and administrative staff work together to provide a full answer and defence to each of our clients, regardless of the nature of the offence.

Alexandra Bérubé, une avocate criminaliste déterminée au cabinet de Montréal, posant à son bureau avec une expression sérieuse.

Me Alexandra Bérubé

Criminal Lawyer – Personal Biography Soon. 

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in law at the University of Montreal, Me Alexandra Bérubé then perfected her training by completing a master’s degree in criminal law at the University of Sherbrooke. Having already practiced in civil law before devoting herself to criminal law, she shows great versatility and knows how to juggle the different spheres of law in order to fully understand all the issues that may arise in the cases entrusted to her. Honest, rigorous and passionate, Me Bérubé is a lawyer of conviction who firmly believes in rehabilitation and in the right to a full and complete defense.

Portrait professionnel de Me Cédric Materne, Avocat criminaliste et collaborateur du Groupe TVA.

Me Cédric Materne

Senior Criminal Lawyer
Team Leader and Media Spokesperson

Cédric Materne holds a law degree from UQAM and has been a member of the Bar since 2016. A passionate advocate of criminal law and a proud contributor to TVA Group, he inspires confidence and defends every case with a combination of determination and in-depth knowledge of criminal law. His curiosity about the latest legal developments and his creative approach to pushing the boundaries of current law have earned him an excellent reputation.

Portrait professionnel de Me Ana-Maria Mocanu, Avocate criminaliste sénior et responsable du département anglophone.

Me Ana-Maria Mocanu

Senior Criminal Lawyer
Team Leader

Me Ana-Maria Mocanu obtained a degree in psychology before completing her law degree at Université Sherbrooke. She began her career at Riendeau Avocats and has been a real asset for 12 years now, looking after the firm’s English-speaking clientele. She pays particular attention to each of her cases, which are highly diversified, and she defends her clients’ rights with zeal.

Headshot of Annie Lahaise, Senior Criminal Lawyer and Head of the Senior Department.

Me Annie Lahaise

Senior Criminal Lawyer and Head of the Senior Department – Personnal Biography Soon. 

Member of the Bar since 2003, Me Annie Lahaise has worked in the criminal world for more than 19 years. Today, she is not only a criminal lawyer at Riendeau Avocats, but also responsible for the senior department and lecturer at the Cégep régional de Lanaudière.

Me Jessica Chebab

Criminal lawyer and Director of the Pardon Application Department

Holder of a major in criminology from the University of Montreal and a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Sherbrooke, Me Jessica Chehab invests herself with heart in all her files and ensures that her clients are heard and represented. with sympathy. A fervent negotiator, she puts forward the right arguments to defend the interests of her clients so that they benefit from a full and complete defense.

Anne-Geneviève Robert, une avocate criminaliste expérimentée au cabinet de Montréal, se tenant debout devant son bureau.

Me Anne-Geneviève Robert

Criminal lawyer and Director of the Penal Department

Me Robert is a criminal lawyer with a Bachelor of Law degree from UdM. Committed to defending her cases, she always works in the best interest of her clients by using her in-depth knowledge in the field and proactive approach before the court. Her leadership skills have led her to take on the role of Director of the Criminal Law Department, which she founded upon joining the team. Socially involved, she is a member of the board of directors of the Fondation NeuroTrauma Marie-Robert and is involved in many committees of the AADM and the JBM

Portrait professionnel de Me Joanie Chainey, Avocate criminaliste et directrice du département criminel.

Me Joanie Chainey

Senior Criminal Lawyer

General Director

Me Chainey received a solid legal education from the University of Ottawa. Her passion for criminal law led her to join Riendeau Avocats, where she practices exclusively in criminal law. A tireless litigator, Me Chainey never runs out of arguments. Brimming with ideas and energy, she’s particularly creative, which helps her find defenses in cases that at first glance seem indefensible. Me Chainey is a go-getter, always ready to do battle to represent her clients’ best interests.

Portrait professionnel de Me Valérie Riendeau, Avocate criminaliste sénior, présidente et fondatrice du cabinet.

Me Valérie Riendeau

Senior Criminal Lawyer

President and Founder of the firm

A graduate of Université de Montréal, Valérie Riendeau began her practice by setting up her own firm. Experienced and professional, she has been at the helm of Riendeau Avocats for 14 years. Its team stands out for its incomparable customer service and personalized approach to every customer. A keen negotiator and excellent litigator, Me Riendeau knows how to put forward the right arguments to defend her clients’ interests and get them the best results.

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Téléphone: 514-742-9120

Courriel: info@riendeauavocats.ca

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En soumettant ce formulaire, vous vous engagez à ne divulguer aucune de vos informations personnelles, que nous ne vendrons pour aucune raison.