Legal Resources

A youth record sets out a young person’s involvement in Canada’s youth justice system. This booklet contains public legal information on frequently asked questions about a youth record, access to and closure of a youth record, and consequences of a record.

This page explains your rights and what to do if you're charged with a criminal offence and you have to defend yourself because you can’t afford a lawyer or get legal aid.

Information about a person found guilty of a crime is kept in their criminal record. Learn about criminal records, including how to apply for a record suspension (formerly a pardon).

This resource explains what rights victims have related to information they can ask for or give to the Parole Board of Canada. It also explains what information offenders may receive.

This page explains some of the possible sentences you could receive if you're found guilty of a crime. Learn about a discharge, a suspended sentence, a conditional sentence, and more.

Use this page to learn about waiting periods, eligibility, and how to apply for a record suspension (formerly a pardon).

The Parole Board of Canada is an independent group that makes decisions about early release, record suspensions, and clemency. They help reintegrate offenders into society while focusing on public safety. Includes information for victims of crime.

This resource explains what to say to a judge before they decide on your sentence. Learn how to prepare and where to get legal advice. It also contains information about Gladue principles at sentencing for Indigenous peoples.

This page explains that if you identify as Aboriginal or Indigenous and you plead guilty to a crime or are found guilty, you might be able to have your bail or sentencing hearing in a First Nations/Indigenous Court in BC. These are criminal sentencing courts that focus on balancing rehabilitation, accountability, and healing.

This article explains what a young person needs to do when they're pulled over by the police while driving. It explains about a roadside breath sample, duties after a collision, and what to do when the police officer asks questions.