Simon Says

Bringing clarity to the inner workings of our legal system

What information does the Parole Board of Canada have access to?

The Parole Board of Canada can consider all relevant and available information, provided it is reliable and persuasive. It has access to and can consider a range of information, including:

  • Correctional documents
  • Court transcripts (reasons for decision and sentence)
  • Pre-sentence reports
  • Police reports
  • Psychiatric reports
  • Criminal records
  • Victim impact statements
  • Risk/actuarial assessments

Offenders can also submit documents to the Board, including:

  • Release plans
  • Support letters
  • Any relevant supporting documents

CSC sends most information to the Board, and CSC is required to share that information with offenders, except in certain circumstances. These exceptions are set out in section 27(3) of the Conditions and Correctional Release Act, and they include: sharing the information would jeopardize the safety of someone, the security of a prison, or the conduct of a lawful investigation.

If the Board receives information from a source other than CSC, it has to advise the offender and CSC.

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