Category: Expungement

 

Most people think they know for sure whether they have a criminal record in Colorado.

When you’ve never been convicted of a crime, it’s easy to assume the answer is no, you do not have a criminal record. If you’ve never spent a day in court, you’ll probably think the same.

 

Surprisingly, these facts don’t necessarily eliminate the possibility altogether.

 

It’s true; In Colorado, you can

 

One of the most devastating consequences of a brush with the law which remains with you long after your case is closed is having a criminal record. A criminal record can affect nearly every aspect of your life, including employment, housing, and higher education.

 

Some offenders find relief in the form of criminal record sealing. This is when the court seals your record from public view, such that

 

Maybe you served your time and just wanted to move on. Or perhaps you beat your charges and didn’t want to deal with more legal nonsense.

 

Whatever your reason, you decided to put off getting your record sealed or expunged.

 

Bad idea.

 

Why? Because even if you have put the past behind you, if you’re lugging around a criminal record, others won’t see it that way,

 

Psychological research on brain development and teen impulsivity shows that the adolescent brain’s reward centers have increased sensitivity, and that teens’ brains need to develop more in order for them to be able to rationally consider the long-term implications of bad decisions.

 

Conversely, the same line of research indicates that the deeper into the justice system they are thrust, the worse a teen’s family relationships, educational development, and

So you’ve been charged with a crime. As you prepare for trial, you likely have penalties like jail time or heavy fees on your mind. What many people don’t realize, though, is that even once they have served their time, they will still face the surprisingly impactful consequence of lugging around a criminal record.

 

Why is this a big deal?

 

Criminal records are public online. Anyone – from