Moving to a new country or applying for a high-trust job can feel like an endless mountain of paperwork, especially when you’re asked for a “Level 2” record check. You might be wondering why a standard criminal record check isn’t enough or what exactly a “judicial matter” entails when it comes to your personal history.
In Canada, navigating the various levels of police checks is essential for anyone looking to work, volunteer, or relocate. Knowing the difference between a criminal record and judicial matters check (CRJMC), and a basic check will help you avoid application rejection and processing delays, whether you’re a homeowner getting ready to move abroad or an applicant for a new job in Ontario.
In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about the Level 2 check, including what information it discloses, how it differs from a vulnerable sector check, and the specific steps for the application process. We will also discuss how the Hague Apostille Convention, which Canada officially joined on January 11, 2024, affects how you use these documents abroad, and how the Legalization Service Centre can help you throughout the journey.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].
What is a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)?
A criminal record and judicial matters check, often referred to as a Level 2 check, is a comprehensive background check that goes beyond a simple list of criminal convictions. While a Level 1 check focuses primarily on a search of the national repository for a finding of guilt under the Criminal Code, a CRJMC includes outstanding entries and judicial orders.
This type of check is intended for applicants seeking positions that require a higher degree of trust, such as roles in finance, security, or government contracting. Unlike a vulnerable sector check, it is not designed for individuals working with children or vulnerable people. Still, it provides a broader picture of an individual’s current status with the law.
Key Components of a CRJMC
The following information is typically included in a Level 2 check:
- Criminal convictions from the RCMP national repository of criminal records and local police service databases.
- Summary convictions (usually for the last five years).
- Outstanding entries, including outstanding charges, warrants, and current judicial orders.
- Judicial orders such as peace bonds, probation and prohibition orders.
- Absolute and conditional discharges (within the 1-year or 3-year disclosure periods).
What it Does Not Include
It is equally important to know what stays private. A CRJMC does not disclose convictions where a record suspension (formerly a pardon) has been granted, unless authorized under the Criminal Records Act. It also generally excludes local police contact that did not result in a charge, or matters where the individual was found not criminally responsible by reason of mental disorder.
Comparing the Three Levels of Police Record Checks
When you require a criminal records check, your employer or the requesting agency will usually specify the “level” they need. In Ontario and across most of Canada, these are standardized to ensure consistency.
Level 1: Police Criminal Record Check (PCRC)
This is the most basic type of record check. Only criminal convictions and guilties under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (during the applicable disclosure period) are revealed by this name-based search of the national repository. It is frequently utilized for office or retail work.
Level 2: Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)
As we’ve discussed, this adds “judicial matters” to the mix. It includes everything in Level 1 plus outstanding entries and charges, warrants, and probation orders. If you are a ride-share driver or applying for a municipal license, this is likely the police check you will need.
Level 3: Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)
This is the most sensitive type of police record check. It is strictly for those working with children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. It includes everything in a CRJMC, plus a search for record-suspended sexual offences. Because of its sensitive nature, an applicant must apply through their local police service of jurisdiction where they reside; it cannot be completed by any other private police service.
How to Apply for a Police Record Check in Ontario
The application process has become much more streamlined in recent years. Most major services, such as the York Regional Police or the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), allow you to apply online.
Step 1: Determine Jurisdiction
You must apply to the police service that has jurisdiction over where you live. For example, if you live in Toronto, you apply to the Toronto Police Service. If you live in an area policed by the Ontario Provincial Police, you must use their portal. If you apply for a police record check with the wrong service, your application may be rejected without a refund.
Step 2: Prepare Identification
To request a police record check, you will need two pieces of valid government-issued ID. Usually, one must have a photo ID, such as a passport or an Ontario Photo Card.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
For online application, you will fill out a check form with your personal details, including your history of addresses. During the online police record check process, you may be asked “identity verification” questions based on your credit file to confirm you are who you say you are.
Step 4: Fingerprinting (If Required)
If a name-based search is inconclusive, perhaps someone with a similar name and birthdate has a criminal record, the police service may require a fingerprint submission. This is the only way to definitely confirm your identity against the RCMP national repository.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].
Using Your Record Check Abroad: The Apostille Process
For many Canadians, a record check is a prerequisite for a visa or work permit in another country. Historically, this required a multi-step process known as “legalization.” However, as of January 11, 2024, the Hague Apostille Convention currently includes Canada as a signatory.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a standardized certificate attached to your criminal record check that verifies the signature of the issuing official. Because Canada is a signatory, your Ontario police check, once apostilled by a competent authority like Global Affairs Canada or a provincial authority, is automatically recognized in over 120 countries.
Why You Might Need an Apostille
If you are moving to Spain, Italy, Australia, or Mexico, they will not accept a “raw” police record check. They need to know the document is authentic. The apostille replaces the old requirement of visiting an embassy or consulate, making your international ventures much simpler.
The Role of Global Affairs Canada
For documents like a criminal record check certificate from Ottawa RCMP, Global Affairs Canada is the primary authority for issuing the apostille. However, if your document was issued by a local police service or notarized by a notary public in a specific province, you may need to go through the provincial authentication office first.
Navigating the Legal Framework: The Criminal Records Act and Youth Justice
The Criminal Records Act and the Youth Criminal Justice Act dictate what information a police service can release. For the average applicant, these laws ensure that the information disclosed is relevant and fair.
The Impact of the Youth Criminal Justice Act
Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, records for offences committed by individuals under 18 are generally protected. However, they remain accessible during an “access period” and may still be disclosed if you require a criminal records check for a government position. Once this period expires, these records are sealed.
Record Suspensions and the National Repository
When you are granted a record suspension, the RCMP national repository of criminal records moves your criminal convictions into a non-public database. This means your police check will come back clear, which is why many prioritize a suspension before seeking a broad record check for career growth.
Understanding Judicial Orders and Outstanding Entries
A CRJMC looks at your current status within the judicial system. This includes outstanding entries and charges where a trial is pending, as well as current judicial orders like peace bonds or probation and prohibition orders. These “judicial matters” are essential for employers in high-trust sectors to assess an applicant’s reliability.
Why Choose Legalization Service Centre for Your Documentation Needs?
When your career or travel plans depend on a criminal record and judicial matters check, you cannot afford a mistake in the application process. A simple error on the check form or sending the document to the wrong regional police authority can result in weeks of delays.
Expertise in Canadian Legalization
With over 15 years of experience, the Legalization Service Centre (LSC) understands the intricacies of the Canadian police record check system. We don’t just help you understand which type of check you need; we manage the complex follow-up steps.
Seamless Apostille Services
Since Canada joined the Hague Convention, the rules have changed. Our team stays current with every provincial and federal requirement. Whether you need a Level 1 or a CRJMC, we can facilitate the authentication and legalization (Apostille) so your documents are ready for use in any of the 125+ member countries.
Fast Turnaround for Busy Homeowners
We know that when you are preparing to move, time is your most valuable asset. We offer fast turnaround times, sometimes as quick as one business day, for certain apostille services. We work with all competent authorities in Canada—from Toronto and Ottawa to Vancouver and Montreal—to ensure your record check is handled with priority.
Comprehensive Support
While our main business is the legalization of documents, we also assist with:
- Obtaining police clearance certificates (RCMP) from within Canada.
- Coordinating with a notary public for required affidavits.
Handling diverse documents, from birth certificates to corporate documents.
Simplify Your Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check Today
Whether you are an applicant for a dream job or a family planning a life-changing move abroad, the paperwork doesn’t have to be a barrier. Understanding your criminal record information and ensuring it is correctly processed is the first step toward your next chapter.
Don’t let the complexities of judicial orders, outstanding charges, or the apostille process slow you down. Let the experts at the Legalization Service Centre handle the bureaucracy while you focus on what matters most.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].