Your Legal Questions Answered

In Colorado, expungement effectively erases the criminal record as if it never existed, while sealing a record makes it inaccessible to the public. Generally, expungement is more common for juvenile records, while adult records are typically sealed. It's important to note that not all misdemeanors can be sealed. The eligibility for sealing a record depends on the nature of the misdemeanor and the specific details of the case. The process of sealing a record in Colorado typically takes between two to three months, but this can vary depending on the agency involved and the specifics of the case. As for the costs, the fee for sealing a record is generally under $225, which covers the administrative expenses of filing and processing the petition in court. However, if you decide to hire an attorney to assist with the sealing process, their fees would be in addition to this amount. The total cost and the timeline for sealing a record can be best assessed by consulting directly with an attorney who can provide guidance based on the details of your individual situation. If you would like to speak to criminal defense partner Ryan Robertson to discuss your options, please contact us at (303) 688-0944.