How to Expunge or Seal a Criminal Record: A Complete Guide for Colorado

A criminal record can follow you long after paying your dues. It can appear on background checks, affect your job search, limit housing options, and create unnecessary stress, even for minor offenses or charges that never led to a conviction. The good news? In Colorado, you may be able to seal or expunge your record, depending on your situation.

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand what that means and how the process works.

What’s the Difference Between Sealing and Expunging?

These terms are often used interchangeably but mean different things in Colorado.

Sealing a record means it’s hidden from public view. Police can still access it, but it won’t appear in most background checks. This option is available for a broader range of cases, including convictions, dismissals, and arrests.

Expungement, on the other hand, is more limited. It usually applies to juvenile records or cases involving mistaken identity in Colorado. When a record is expunged, it’s treated as though it never existed—even law enforcement can’t access it under most circumstances.

Who Qualifies to Seal a Criminal Record in Colorado?

Eligibility depends on the type of case and how it was resolved. Here are a few general guidelines:

If your charges were dismissed or acquitted, you can usually petition for sealing immediately. In addition, recent changes to Colorado law now require that courts to automatically seal many low-level offenses.

Some offenses can still be sealed if you were convicted, but there’s typically a waiting period.

For example:

• Certain misdemeanors may be eligible after 1 to 2 years.
• Some non-violent felonies may be sealed after 3 to 5 years.
• Drug possession offenses often qualify after a set time, depending on the severity.

Traffic offenses, DUIs, and certain crimes involving children or violence generally can’t be sealed. Colorado law changed recently to expand eligibility, so if you were told your record couldn’t be sealed before, it’s worth taking another look.

What About Juvenile Records?

Juvenile records are handled a little differently. In most cases, a juvenile can apply for expungement after completing their sentence or diversion program. There are exceptions for more serious offenses, but the state generally supports giving young people a clean slate when possible.

If the offense involved a petty crime or misdemeanor, and the person has remained out of trouble for some time, expungement is often granted fairly easily.

How Does the Process Work?

The sealing or expungement process starts with filing a petition in the court where the case was handled. You typically must include specific documents and notify the District Attorney’s Office.

If the DA objects, a hearing may be scheduled. The judge will then consider whether sealing or expungement of the record is appropriate, based on the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and how much time has passed.

It’s not automatic, and paperwork must be completed carefully. Mistakes or missing information can delay the process or result in a denial. Many choose to work with an attorney who knows what the court seeks.

Why Sealing or Expunging Your Record Matters

Having a clean record can make a big difference if you apply for jobs, rent an apartment, or even volunteer at your child’s school. Employers and landlords often run background checks; even a dismissed charge can raise questions.

You’re not just improving your legal standing by sealing or expunging your record. You’re allowing yourself to move forward without the past dragging behind you.

Get Help Navigating the Process

Every case is different, and Colorado’s laws continue to evolve. If you’re unsure whether your record qualifies or how to begin, talking with someone who understands the system is the best place to start.

Our firm helps clients across Colorado take the next step toward a clean slate. Contact The Juba Law Office for a confidential consultation if you have questions about sealing or expunging a record.