If you were charged with a crime as a minor in Colorado, you might wonder whether your juvenile record can be sealed. The short answer is yes, in many cases. Colorado law allows records of certain juvenile offenses to be sealed or expunged. However, violent juvenile offenders are typically not eligible to seal records of criminal convictions.
Juvenile record sealing or expungement can give you a fresh start. It shields your past from most employers, landlords, and other parties conducting background checks.
Eligibility Criteria for Expunging Juvenile Records
Not all court records of juvenile offenses are eligible for sealing or expungement. However, Colorado law offers many opportunities for juvenile offenders to move forward without a permanent criminal record. According to the Colorado Judicial Branch, eligibility typically depends on the type of juvenile offense, the outcome of the case, and the person’s criminal history since the juvenile charge or conviction.
You may be eligible to seal or expunge your juvenile record if:
- The offense was not a serious or violent felony (such as homicide or a sex offense involving force).
- You completed a juvenile diversion program or had your case dismissed.
- You have not been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor since the case concluded.
- You have not been adjudicated as a juvenile delinquent since the case concluded.
- You have completed your sentence, and a specific time period has passed without new criminal charges.
- You were found not guilty at trial.
- Sealing your record is in your and the community’s best interests.
Furthermore, there are mandatory waiting periods before you can request sealing or expungement. These can go up to five years, depending on the offense and how your case was resolved.
Steps to Expunge a Juvenile Record
The process of expunging or sealing a juvenile record involves several legal steps and specific forms. Here is an outline of the basic steps:
- Determine eligibility – First, review your case details to confirm that you qualify for expungement under Colorado law. An experienced criminal defense attorney at Peakstone Law Group can explain your options.
- Complete the expungement petition – Fill out all required forms for the expungement request and gather supporting documents.
- File with the court – Next, you or your attorney will submit the expungement petition to the appropriate district court.
- Attend a court hearing (if required) – The court may schedule a hearing to evaluate your petition. If so, you and your attorney will appear.
If you’re approved, the court will issue an order to seal or expunge your records. It is critical to follow each step of this process carefully. Incomplete or incorrect filings can delay expungement. Your best option is to get help from our Colorado juvenile records expungement lawyers.
Benefits of Expunging Juvenile Records
Sealing a juvenile record can provide significant benefits for your future. Once sealed, your record is no longer accessible to the general public, including employers, landlords, and most professional licensing boards. That means:
- A clean criminal record
- Better employment opportunities
- Better access to housing and education
- Peace of mind
In short, expunging or sealing juvenile records offers a fresh start.
How Our Lawyers Can Help with Expunging Juvenile Records
Peakstone Law Group, formerly known as Patterson Weaver, knows how a juvenile record can hold you back. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys stand ready to guide you every step of the way through the expungement process. We’ll make working toward an expungement as stress-free and effective as possible.
Contact Peakstone Law Group today for a free consultation to learn whether you’re eligible for expungement.