If you’ve been arrested or convicted of a crime in Colorado, your criminal record can continue to impact your life for years—even long after you’ve served your time or completed probation. A record can make it harder to get a job, find housing, or apply for loans. Fortunately, under Colorado law, some individuals are eligible to seal or expunge their records, giving them a fresh start. One of the most common questions people ask a Denver expungements lawyer is: How long does the expungement process actually take?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of record you’re trying to clear, whether you’re eligible, and how quickly the courts and agencies process your request. In this blog, we’ll walk through the typical timeline, key steps, and what can affect how long it takes to clear your record in Denver.
Understanding Expungement vs. Record Sealing
Before diving into the timeline, it’s important to understand that Colorado distinguishes between expungement and record sealing:
- Expungement typically applies to juvenile records and results in the destruction of the record as if it never existed.
- Record sealing applies more broadly to adult criminal records and restricts public access to the record, though some government agencies can still view it.
Both processes aim to reduce the long-term impact of a criminal history, but they follow different rules and timelines.
General Timeline for the Expungement/Sealing Process in Denver
While each case is unique, here’s a general breakdown of how long the expungement or record sealing process takes from start to finish:
1. Determine Eligibility (1–2 weeks)
The first step is to determine whether your record qualifies. This depends on several factors, such as the nature of the offense, whether it was a conviction or a dismissal, and how much time has passed since the case was resolved. A Denver expungements lawyer can review your records and determine your eligibility quickly, often within a few days to a week.
2. Gather Records and File the Petition (2–4 weeks)
Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is collecting the necessary court records, case numbers, and documentation to support your petition. After that, your lawyer will file a petition for expungement or sealing with the court. This process can take anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on how quickly records are obtained and the complexity of the case.
3. Court Review and Hearing (1–3 months)
After filing, the court will review the petition and may schedule a hearing. The timeline here can vary depending on court availability and the specific county. In Denver, hearings are usually scheduled within 30 to 90 days from the date of filing. If the District Attorney objects to the petition, this can delay the process, but many cases are resolved without objection.
4. Court Decision and Order (1–2 weeks)
If the court grants the petition, it will issue an order to seal or expunge the record. This generally happens within a couple of weeks after the hearing or final review. You will receive a signed court order that officially authorizes the sealing or expungement.
5. Notifying Agencies (1–2 months)
Once the order is issued, it must be sent to all agencies that hold records related to your case—this includes law enforcement, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and other relevant departments. These agencies are required to comply with the court order, but the process of updating their systems can take 30 to 60 days, sometimes longer.
Total Estimated Time: 3 to 6 Months
From start to finish, the entire expungement or sealing process in Denver generally takes between three to six months, assuming there are no major complications. If you attempt to do it on your own, the process may take longer due to paperwork errors or missed deadlines. Working with an experienced Denver expungements lawyer can streamline the process, improve your chances of success, and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline
Several things can speed up—or delay—the expungement process:
- Type of Offense – Felony cases may require more documentation and take longer to process than misdemeanor or juvenile cases.
- Opposition from Prosecutors – If the District Attorney objects to your petition, the case may require additional hearings and legal arguments.
- Backlogs in the Court System – Court and agency delays, especially during busy seasons, can extend processing times.
- Errors in the Petition – Mistakes in your filing can lead to rejections or delays, which is why it’s crucial to have a lawyer review everything.
Why Hire a Denver Expungements Lawyer?
While you are allowed to file for expungement of record sealing on your own, the process can be legally complex and time-consuming. A qualified Denver expungements lawyer can guide you through the process, help you avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your petition is as strong as possible. This increases the likelihood of success—and gets you closer to clearing your record and moving on with your life.
