About Expungement

Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Attorney

Unlike in other states, individuals in Colorado cannot have their arrest or criminal records cleared through the expungement process. Even though individual cannot fully destroy their criminal records through expungement, in Colorado, individuals can petition to have their arrest and criminal records sealed. If you would like to have your record sealed from public view, you should speak to a criminal defense attorney from my firm. At The Samuelson Law Firm, my highly dedicated criminal defense team can walk you through the legal process of having a record sealed from public view.

Differences Between Expungement and Sealing Your Record

A criminal record can greatly affect your ability to live a normal life. In most cases, whenever you apply for a new job, for a new apartment, or for a bank loan or other forms of financial assistance, you will have to undergo a background check. New employers, landlords, and bank officials do not look favorably on individuals with a criminal record. Even though life with a criminal record can be decidedly harsh, the state of Colorado does not offer much leniency towards individuals who wish to get a clean start. Having your record sealed differs from expungement in that the offense will stay on your record even after it is sealed. Though the offense will stay on your record, potential employers, landlords, and other interested parties will not be able to view your record, as it will be sealed from public view.

You may petition to have your arrest and criminal record sealed only if you meet a certain number of criteria. It is important to know that you cannot seal your records if you were found guilty or if you pled guilty in the court of law. No matter how long ago the offense may have been, if you were convicted of a crime, your record must remain open. However for most misdemeanor and felony offenses, if you were not charged with a crime or if your case was completely dismissed, it is very likely that you qualify to have your records sealed. You can also have your records sealed if you were found not guilty in court or if you received a deferred sentence and fully complied with the terms of the deferral.