You’ve been charged with a criminal offence—but you haven’t been convicted. Understandably, you’re worried.
Will this charge affect your job? Your travel plans? Your reputation?
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Will pending charges show up on a background check in Canada?”
The answer depends on a few key factors, including the type of background check and whether your information has been submitted to the CPIC (Canadian Police Information Centre) database.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a CPIC Report?
The Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) is a national database operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). It stores and shares criminal information with police forces across Canada and, in some cases, internationally.
A CPIC report is often used in:
Pre-employment background checks
Volunteer screenings
Immigration assessments
Security clearance procedures
⚠️ If your pending charge is entered into CPIC, it may appear on your background check—even if you haven’t been convicted.
Source: RCMP – CPIC Overview
Do Pending Charges Appear on a Background Check?
✅ Yes – they can appear.
Even if you’re not yet convicted, pending or unresolved charges may show up, depending on the level of background check requested:
Types of Background Checks in Canada:
Name-based Criminal Record Check
May show pending charges if police choose to disclose.
Won’t show non-conviction data unless relevant.
Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)
Typically required for roles involving children, seniors, or vulnerable persons.
May include pending charges, non-convictions, or even withdrawn charges if police believe they are relevant to the position.
Police Information Check (PIC)
Includes convictions, charges before the courts (pending), and police contact.
Local police services can use discretion in what’s released.
What Happens If You’re Found Not Guilty?
If you’re acquitted or the charges are withdrawn, they may still remain in the police records for some time.
You may need to:
Request a file destruction or
Apply for a record suspension (formerly called a pardon) if applicable.
“Non-conviction records, including withdrawn and dismissed charges, can be disclosed in certain situations—especially during vulnerable sector checks.”
– Canadian Civil Liberties Association
Can Employers See Pending Charges?
Yes, depending on:
The level of check requested
The discretion of the police service releasing the information
Whether the check is for a job in the public trust or vulnerable sector
Some employers may rescind a job offer if they see unresolved charges—even if you’re ultimately acquitted.
This is why it’s critical to have legal representation during every stage of a criminal proceeding.
How Can You Protect Your Record?
If you’re facing a criminal charge and are worried about how it will affect your future, here are some important steps:
Hire a Criminal Defence Lawyer
A lawyer can advocate for having charges dropped, dismissed, or diverted—reducing long-term consequences.Request Record Destruction (If Eligible)
After acquittal, you can apply for police record destruction to prevent future disclosure.Know Your Rights
You have a right to request and review your own CPIC record.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Being charged but not convicted can feel just as overwhelming as a guilty verdict—especially when your career or immigration status hangs in the balance.
But you have options, and you don’t have to navigate this alone.
📞 Contact us today for a confidential, free consultation.
Let us help you protect your future.
Worried that a pending charge could ruin your chances of getting a job or traveling?
Speak to a criminal defence lawyer who knows how to protect your record.