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Louisville Case Sealing and Expungement Attorney

For those with a criminal history in the state of Colorado, record sealing and expungement serve as an enticing way to limit access to one’s criminal record. It is well known that a felony or a crime on one’s record can often pose problems down the road with housing and employment opportunities, amongst other areas of life. The experienced team at Datz Law Firm can handle the record sealing and expungement process to help ensure your eligibility and guide you toward a clean criminal record.

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How Do Case Sealing And Expungement Work?

In Colorado, expungement and record sealing offer individual’s the opportunity to limit access to their criminal records. Record sealing makes a criminal record inaccessible to the general public. This means that an individual’s criminal record is typically hidden from most background checks, though it can still be accessed by police, prosecutors, and certain government agencies. Inversely, expungement completely destroys any criminal charges on one’s record, making them completely inaccessible and eliminating them from any future background checks. Expungement is most common in juveniles, underaged drinking and driving cases, and mistaken identity cases.

Some crimes may not be eligible for sealing. There are many factors that determine an individual’s eligibility, most notably a history of prior offenses or fulfilling all previous sentence requirements. Most criminal records in the state of Colorado can be sealed under the following conditions:

If an individual was arrested but was never charged with a crime or the charges were dismissed, they are eligible to have their record sealed.

Many drug offenses are often eligible for sealing. Most often, simple possession charges are likely to be sealed, though more serious offenses may not be eligible.

Underage drinking and driving cases are often sealed to help young offenders avoid long-term consequences. Most juvenile cases are eligible for sealing.

Misdemeanors and petty offenses can also be sealed if the nature of the crime is neither violent nor sexual.

There are cases of certain crimes being decriminalized or legalized, most notably marijuana-related crimes in Colorado, that are also eligible for sealing.

As mentioned earlier, expungement is typically reserved for juvenile crimes. Though in some rare cases, victims of human trafficking can petition for eligibility to have their record expunged under certain circumstances. Decriminalized activities are also more likely to be expunged.

Alternatively, there are some crimes that are not eligible for sealing or expungement in the state of Colorado. These include crimes like:

Sexual Offenses: Crimes like sexual assault are not available for sealing in the state of Colorado. Unlawful sexual behavior, especially when resulting in a conviction, is not eligible for sealing.

Class 1 and Class 2 Misdemenaors and Felonies: Serious offenses, particularly violent crimes, are also generally not eligible for sealing.

Underage drinking and driving cases are often sealed to help young offenders avoid long-term consequences. Most juvenile cases are eligible for sealing.

DUI/DWI Convictions: For adults in the state of Colorado, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) convictions are not eligible for sealing.

Homicide: Murder charges cannot be sealed in Colorado.

The severity of the crime typically determines the eligibility for sealing. In Colorado, felonies are not automatically sealed after any period of time and require active petitioning with the court. All individuals who wish to seal their records must follow the proper legal procedures.

In Colorado, the legal process starts with determining your eligibility for sealing. This is typically determined by the type of crime, the outcome, and whether or not all legal obligations were fulfilled.

First, individuals who wish to seal their record must obtain a copy of their criminal record from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Next, a petition must be filed in the court where your case was handled.

Then, Colorado law dictated that the district attorney and any victims involved are notified of your intent to seal your records, where they will have the opportunity to object your petition.

Finally, a court hearing is scheduled and you are given the opportunity to argue your case. A judge may approve or reject your petition.

If the petition is approved by the court, they will issue an order to seal your records.

How can Datz Law Firm help seal your record?

How Can the Datz Law Firm Help Seal Your Record?

The importance of a skilled legal team by your side is invaluable. The legal process surrounding record sealing can be lengthy, and, at times, fairly complicated. The Datz Law Firm is able to provide resolute legal representation that can greatly benefit your case. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge required to help guide you toward the most favorable outcome. For a consultation, do not hesitate to reach out. The Datz Law Firm is here to help. Come see how our team of successful, determined lawyers can help get your record sealed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does case sealing differ from expungement in Colorado?

Case sealing and expungement both serve to restrict access to criminal records, but they differ in scope. Expungement typically means the record is destroyed or removed, whereas sealing means the record still exists but is not accessible to the public. Both processes have specific eligibility criteria and legal implications in Louisville, Colorado.

Why should I hire an expungement lawyer in Louisville, Colorado?

Hiring an expungement lawyer in Louisville, Colorado, ensures that you receive expert advice and assistance throughout the expungement or case sealing process. A lawyer can help you navigate legal complexities, file accurate paperwork, represent you in court, and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

How long does the expungement process take in Louisville, Colorado?

The expungement process in Louisville, Colorado, can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the court's schedule. Generally, it can take several months from the filing of the petition to the court's decision. An expungement lawyer can provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific circumstances. To start your expungement process, reach out to Datz Law Firm for a consultation.

Additional Information in Louisville, Colorado

Sealing Arrest Records in Colorado: Guidelines for submitting court orders to seal arrest records through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. The page outlines the steps for submission, required documentation, payment instructions, and relevant state statutes. It also provides resources and contact information for further assistance.

Guide to Sealing Your Case in Colorado: Discover comprehensive resources and step-by-step instructions on how to seal your criminal case records in Colorado, ensuring your privacy and future opportunities.

Changes to Criminal Record Sealing and Expungement in Colorado: House Bill 24-1133 revises procedures for sealing and expunging criminal records, including allowing defendants to petition for expungement in mistaken identity cases, clarifying eligibility for deferred judgments, and enabling remote hearings. The bill also mandates the creation of a list of non-conviction records for review.

Protecting Your Children's Future Starts Today

Don't let your past define your future. Contact Datz Law Firm today for a consultation to discuss your options for case sealing or expungement.

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Louisville Case Sealing and Expungement Attorney

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How Do Case Sealing And Expungement Work?

How Can the Datz Law Firm Help Seal Your Record?

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Information in Louisville, Colorado

Protecting Your Children's Future Starts Today

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