Absolute discharge

An absolute discharge is the lowest‑level adult sentence that an offender can get.

If an offender gets an absolute discharge, then a finding of guilt is made but no conviction is registered, and they are not given any conditions to follow (i.e. a probation order). The offender is finished with their case. The person does not have to go to court again or check in with a probation officer.

An absolute discharge will stay on an offender’s criminal record for a year after the date they received the discharge. Authorities, including border agents will be able to see the discharge on the person’s record so it may be best not to travel outside of Canada during this time. The police and Crown will also be able to see the discharge if the offender commits a crime during this time, is charged and must go back to court.

The discharge will be automatically removed from their record after one year. The person doesn’t have to apply for a pardon.