When legal outcomes leave you with a criminal record, it can continue to follow you for years to come, impacting your life in many ways, even after you serve any sentence you are given. In some situations, it may be possible to have those records sealed, a process that makes them inaccessible to most people who otherwise could learn more about your past. This process is not simplistic, but it is an option in various cases with the help of a Garfield County criminal defense attorney from Troxell Law.
Understanding What Record Sealing Is
In Colorado, record sealing is a way to lock off or make it harder for anyone to access your personal records related to crimes you committed in the past. If your records are not sealed, anyone who requests a background check on you, like a company you want to work with or a landlord you hope to rent through, can see what occurred in the past.
Once the records are sealed, this can remove those records from public view. That means that employers and others using a background check will not see them.
Why Is Sealing Records So Important?
Sealing your records can be critical. There are many situations in which small crimes you committed, for example, in your youth, can limit you from getting a job or meeting your future goals now. Though Colorado has a process in place for this, not everyone realizes it is an option for them. If you want a clean slate and an opportunity to move your life forward, you need this opportunity.
Understanding Eligibility in Record Sealing Under Colorado Law
Not every type of case allows for the details to be sealed off from public view. Eligibility of criminal record seal is dependent on the type of crime you committed and the length of time since it occurred. Most crimes will fall into this area. However, there are some crimes that remain ineligible for sealing no matter how much time has passed, including:
- Violent traffic offenses
- Offenses that are considered harmful to public safety
- Offenses that involved some type of unlawful sexual behavior
- Level 1 drug felonies
- Class 1, 2, and 3 felonies
- DUIs
- Domestic violence crimes
If your case does not fall into one of those areas, you can pursue record sealing. In doing so, you will need to meet further requirements. For example, you can have your records sealed immediately if the case was dismissed or the arrest did not lead to a criminal charge. If you complete an applicable diversion agreement, that may also mean immediate help. In some situations, you may be able to receive a pardon as well.
For other items, it may take longer for this to occur. However, you should discuss the option with your attorney. That way, when you become eligibletorhaveg your records seale,d you can petition the court to do so. Once the process is done, you may find it easier to obtain a job, get affordable insurance, or navigate the process of buying or renting a home.