States across the nation have enacted clean slate laws that allow certain criminal records to be sealed automatically. If you are seeking to have a past conviction expunged or sealed, you may be wondering how Colorado’s Clean Slate Act could help. With the right legal support, you can pursue a fresh start by determining whether your criminal record qualifies for automatic sealing or whether additional legal steps are necessary.
Which Criminal Records Are Automatically Sealed Under Colorado’s Clean Slate Act?
Colorado’s Clean Slate Act allows certain criminal records to be sealed automatically without filing a court petition. Eligible records include arrests that did not result in charges, dismissed cases, acquittals, and successful completion of qualifying diversion programs. For criminal convictions, automatic sealing generally follows these waiting periods:
- Petty offenses: Two years after sentence completion
- Class 1, 2, and 3 misdemeanors: Five years after sentence completion
- Class 3, 4, and 5 felonies: Ten years after sentence completion
There are over 19,500 registered sex offenders in Colorado, and certain convictions involving violence, sexual offenses, domestic violence, stalking, or crimes against vulnerable individuals are excluded. Additional eligibility requirements and restrictions may also apply.
According to the Clean Slate Community of Practice, Colorado issued approximately 166,000 automatic non-conviction sealing orders under legislation that took effect in July 2025. Given that roughly 30,000 Coloradans are serving time behind bars in a typical year, many convicted individuals can benefit from having their records sealed under the Clear Slate Act.
Which Criminal Records Still Require a Petition for Sealing?
Whether you live in Capitol Hill, Cherry Creek, Washington Park, or elsewhere in Denver, not every eligible criminal record qualifies for automatic sealing under Colorado’s Clean Slate Act. Some individuals must petition the court to have their records sealed, even when they meet the legal requirements for relief.
According to the Colorado Judicial Branch, records that may require a court petition include:
- Certain misdemeanor and felony convictions that do not qualify for automatic sealing
- Eligible records that were not sealed through the automatic process
- Qualifying municipal court convictions
- Criminal convictions for which the individual received a full gubernatorial pardon
- Certain arrest records, dismissed cases, and acquittals that were not automatically sealed
An experienced record sealing attorney can determine which procedure applies and help prepare the necessary court documents.
How Can You Verify That Your Criminal Record Is Sealed and Who Can Still Access It?
The Colorado Judicial Branch provides resources for checking whether a criminal case has been sealed. Individuals can also request confirmation from the court that handled their case. Although sealed records are generally inaccessible to the public, certain law enforcement agencies, courts, and authorized employers may still access them under state law. In short, sealing a record does not mean that it is permanently erased.
Contact a Trusted Defense Firm That Understands the State’s Clean Slate Laws
Colorado’s Clean Slate Act provides unique opportunities for qualifying individuals to start over with a sealed criminal history record. If you are ready to put the past behind you and move forward with confidence, Blackley & Wingad can help.
Our criminal defense law firm can take the time to review your criminal record and the circumstances surrounding your conviction or arrest before moving forward with the right approach. Don’t delay securing the high-quality legal representation that your case deserves. Contact our office today.
