Expungement & Record Sealing Lawyer in Pueblo
If you’re wondering if you are eligible to have your record expunged or sealed, or you have general questions about expungement or sealing records, Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C. can assist you. Our defense attorneys understand how disheartening and frustrating it is to be denied housing or employment for mistakes that you made in the past. Let us help you get a fresh start. Some convictions can be erased from your permanent record. Contact Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C. for a free consultation with a Pueblo expungement and record sealing lawyer.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Any type of criminal history, even convictions for misdemeanors and less severe crimes, can negatively impact a person’s life. It can make it more difficult, or even impossible, to find housing and maintain employment. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine if any of your past convictions or arrests are eligible to be expunged or sealed. By taking this step, you can really start fresh and turn your life around.
Record Sealing
In Colorado, having your record sealed means you’re able to have your criminal history hidden from the public. If you successfully have your records sealed, they will no longer show up on background checks. Only law enforcement would be able to see your records if they were sealed. The records still exist, though.
What Records Can Be Sealed?
The rules surrounding sealed records can be a bit complicated, so it’s always wise to contact a lawyer. However, common situations where records can be sealed include the following:
Dismissals
If you were arrested, you might be entitled to have your records sealed under the following circumstances:
- The arrest didn’t lead to any charges being filed
- Your case was dismissed, meaning there was never a conviction
- You were found not guilty of the charges
Guilty Pleas – Sometimes
If you plead guilty to a crime and receive a deferred judgment, you should be eligible to have your records sealed once you successfully complete the requirements of your sentence or the case gets dismissed.
In all circumstances, your records cannot be sealed until there is a final resolution to your case.
Some Convictions
If you were convicted of a crime, it could still be possible to have your records sealed. There are many crimes that are not eligible to be sealed, such as Class 1, 2, and 3 felonies, sex crimes, and DUIs, to name a few.
Expungement
While sealing records means hiding them and removing them from being seen on background checks and by the public, an expungement is the process of physically destroying records; it’s as if they never existed. Once your record has been expunged, you are permitted to lawfully deny that you were ever arrested, charged, convicted, or sentenced.
What Charges Can be Expunged?
The only records you can have expunged in Colorado are juvenile records, underage drinking and driving records, and criminal arrest records if you were arrested due to mistaken identity. However, not all juvenile records can be expunged, so consulting with a lawyer is crucial.
If you were arrested due to mistaken identity and you were not subsequently charged with a crime, law enforcement must petition to have your records expunged within 90 days of the determination that there was a mistake made as to your identity.
Speak With a Pueblo Record Sealing Attorney Today
If you believe you are eligible to have certain convictions or arrests expunged or sealed, it’s wise to contact an experienced Pueblo criminal defense lawyer right away. At Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C., we will do everything we can to help you with your past criminal history. We always have your best interest in mind. Contact Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C. today for a free and confidential consultation.