In Colorado, sealing your criminal record doesn’t erase your past, but it does protect it from public view. Sealing means that your arrest or conviction record is no longer accessible through background checks used by most employers, landlords, licensing agencies, and the general public. While law enforcement and certain government agencies may still view sealed records, most others cannot, and you are legally allowed to say the incident never happened in most situations.
This process can offer a powerful fresh start. If your past keeps showing up in job interviews, housing applications, or professional licenses, sealing your record can help break the cycle and give you the chance to move forward without stigma.
What Are the Benefits of Sealing a Criminal Record?
There are many benefits to sealing your record, especially in a state like Colorado, where the law is increasingly supportive of second chances. Here are the top advantages:
1. Employment Opportunities
Many employers run background checks as part of their hiring process. If a misdemeanor or even a dismissed charge appears, it can cost you the job, no matter how qualified you are. Once your record is sealed, those incidents no longer show up in most standard background checks, and in most situations, you don’t have to disclose them on job applications.
2. Access to Housing
Landlords frequently screen potential tenants by checking criminal records. A sealed record won’t show up in these reports, improving your chances of getting approved for an apartment, house rental, or other housing arrangement. This can be life-changing if you've faced repeated denials due to something that happened years ago.
3. Educational and Financial Aid Access
Some colleges and financial aid programs ask about criminal history. Sealing your record may allow you to legally answer “no” to those questions, depending on the program. This opens the door to continuing your education and qualifying for scholarships or federal aid.
4. Professional Licenses
Certain professions, like nursing, teaching, real estate, law, and healthcare, require state licensure. Licensing boards often review criminal records during the application process. Sealing your record can help you pass these reviews and avoid unnecessary delays or denials based on your history.
5. Personal Peace of Mind
Living with a public criminal record can be emotionally exhausting. Many people fear their past will be brought up in personal relationships, during school registration, or in neighborhood communities. Sealing your record offers relief, dignity, and a sense of closure.
Our Colorado criminal record sealing attorneys have helped countless clients regain control of their reputations and futures through this powerful legal tool.
Who Is Eligible to Seal Their Record in Colorado?
Colorado law allows the sealing of many types of criminal records, but not all. In general, you may be eligible if:
- Your charges were dismissed or you were found not guilty
- You completed a deferred judgment and sentence agreement
- You were convicted of certain non-violent misdemeanors or low-level felonies
- A certain amount of time has passed since your conviction or sentence ended (usually 1–5 years)
Colorado also recently expanded record-sealing opportunities through “Clean Slate” legislation, which automates sealing for certain offenses after a waiting period, though manual petitions may still be faster and more thorough.
However, some offenses cannot be sealed, including:
- Most sexual offenses
- Domestic violence cases (in some circumstances)
- DUI and DWAI convictions
- Class 1 and 2 and some Class 3 felonies
Even if your case seems minor, it's important to consult a legal professional. The rules surrounding eligibility are complex and frequently change due to new legislation.
Is Sealing the Same as Expungement?
No. In Colorado, “expungement” is a legal process that typically applies only to juvenile records and a few limited adult situations. “Sealing” is the process used for most adult cases. The end result is similar, restricted public access, but the legal terminology and eligibility requirements differ.
How Long Does the Record Sealing Process Take?
It depends on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule. Once your petition is filed, the court will review your eligibility and may set a hearing date. If approved, the court issues an order requiring all public agencies to remove or seal your record from public access.
The typical timeline is 3 to 6 months, although delays can occur depending on the court, jurisdiction, or case volume. Acting early and filing a complete, accurate petition can help speed up the process.
Does It Cost Anything to Seal a Record?
Yes. There are filing fees involved, as well as costs for fingerprinting, background checks, and certified copies. These typically range from $250 to $450. However, compared to the long-term cost of lost job opportunities or denied housing, the investment is well worth it.
If cost is a concern, ask our firm about flexible payment options. In some cases, fee waivers may also be available depending on income level.
What If Your Petition Is Denied?
If your request to seal your record is denied, you may have options. In some cases, you can refile after a waiting period or correct any issues with your original filing and submit again. We can also help you appeal the denial if appropriate.
The key is to build a complete, well-documented petition the first time. That includes showing that you’ve complied with all sentence requirements, remained law-abiding, and have compelling reasons for sealing the record.
Take Control of Your Future Today
Your past doesn’t have to define your future. If a criminal record is holding you back, record sealing may be the clean slate you need. Whether it’s for a dismissed charge, a deferred judgment, or an old conviction, you may have more options than you think.
Contact Datz Law today to schedule a free consultation and find out if you qualify to seal your criminal record in Colorado. Let us help you reclaim your privacy, rebuild your reputation, and take the next step forward.
