One of the worst parts of a criminal conviction or, for that matter, an arrest in Colorado is not necessarily the sentence – which may include fines, incarceration, probation, or other forms of punishment – but the collateral consequences. Collateral consequences include the social and financial harm associated with an arrest or criminal record. Because of the latter, you can lose your job or miss out on career opportunities. Your reputation is at stake as much as your financial future.
This is true for people who made a mistake but are otherwise law-abiding citizens.
At JWP Law, our record sealing lawyer based in Denver handles all types of record sealing cases. Getting criminal convictions and arrest records sealed is your best means of safeguarding your future. Contact us at 720-329-4149 to schedule a Free Consultation and to learn more about what opportunities are available to you.
Understanding Record Sealing in Colorado
Unlike many states, Colorado only allows expungement in few certain cases. Expungement is the process of erasing a criminal arrest or conviction from your record via a court order. Most individuals in Colorado are only potentially eligible for Record Sealing which is similar, but the records of the arrest or conviction are retained by law enforcement and certain government agencies.
While not as complete as expungement, Record Sealing can offer immense benefit for individuals seeking housing or a new job, or just not wanting to be followed by a mistake in the past.
The availability, eligibility criteria, application process, and potential relief from record sealing can vary widely pending on your circumstances, but the laws allowing for one to seal a record have greatly broadened in the past several years.
Where it is available, the record sealing process typically involves a few steps:
- Drafting and filing a petition or motion, along with supporting material and filing fee, with the court that heard your case.
- Serving the filing on the prosecutor and any other required entities.
- Attending a hearing that will be set for the court to decide whether to issue a Sealing Order.
The laws on Record Sealing can be difficult to understand but are currently more inclusive than ever. You should consult with a criminal defense lawyer in Colorado if you want to learn more about record sealing and if you may be eligible. Contact our criminal defense attorney located in Denver today at 720-329-4149 to get started.
Benefits of Record Sealing in Colorado
An arrest or criminal conviction can have serious long-term consequences beyond any sentence imposed by a court. A criminal record can affect your ability to find employment, secure accommodation, apply for a loan, and obtain a professional license.
Record Sealing gives you another chance at a “clean slate.”
It can open up job opportunities that may have previously been closed by your criminal history and make it easier to secure accommodation. It may also help when applying for loans.
Three Reasons to Hire a Record Sealing Attorney in Colorado
The availability of Record Sealing and the application process to file a petition or Motion are state-specific. Eligibility criteria can be complicated, with several overlapping laws and time constraints. The process can also be complex, involving strict compliance with the rules and provision of relevant supporting documentation.
While you can represent yourself in a Record Sealing petition, it's worth speaking to an attorney for the following reasons:
- Ensure eligibility. We will advise you whether you are eligible to apply. The eligibility requirements for record sealing are updated regularly, and our criminal defense attorney is familiar with the current legal position. We will review your criminal history, personal circumstances, and the law to confirm whether you can apply to seal your criminal record.
- Strong, persuasive application. We will also help you prepare a strong Motion. Our criminal defense lawyer knows how to obtain copies of the documents you need and will help you develop submissions as to why the judge should grant the Motion, which can be done without the need for a hearing or testimony.
- Improved chances of success. It is important to get a Motion to Seal correct. A denial will bar you from reapplying for a certain period of time.
In sum, our Record Sealing attorney will review your case, advise you about your options, and help you navigate the process to a successful conclusion.
Contact a Record Sealing Lawyer in Denver Today
If you have been convicted of a crime in Colorado and think you may be eligible for sealing, you should pursue it immediately. The sooner you do, the sooner you will benefit from a clean slate. At JWP Law, our expungement lawyer in Denver and criminal defense team handle these types of requests with urgency and accuracy. Contact us today by either filling out the online form or calling us at 720-329-4149 to schedule a Free Consultation.