When Can a Juvenile Court Record be Expunged?
The amount of time a juvenile must wait to have their criminal record expunged depends on the circumstances:
Outright Dismissal: If a criminal case was dismissed, the juvenile defendant generally is able to have it expunged immediately.
Dismissed Following Diversion or Deferred Adjudication: If a criminal case was dismissed after a diversion program or deferred adjudication, the juvenile must wait for at least a year following the dismissal to begin the expunging process.
Following Parole: If the juvenile was on parole, they must wait ten years following the end of their parole to expunge records.
Violent / Aggravated Crimes: If a juvenile was adjudicated for a crime of violence, unlawful sexual behavior, or through a direct filing, they will not be eligible to petition the court for expungement.
How to Start the Expungement Process
The expungement process for juvenile criminal records is similar to the adult sealing process. It begins with the filing of a petition with a District court in Fort Collins, Colorado. The next step is for the court to look at the law in Colorado and make specific findings in order to determine whether or not to grant the order of expungement. If you wish to expunge your criminal record, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney for this process, because it is complex. You need a guide to help you get the fresh start you need.
[pullquote align=”center” textalign=”center” width=”100%”]Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney ensures the expungement process goes smoothly.[/pullquote]Why Expungement is Crucial for a Bright Future Following Juvenile Probation or Parole
Once an expungement order has been entered in Larimer, Grand, or Broomfield County, the person will be able to tell employers and landlords they have no criminal record. This freedom is crucial as a juvenile begins their adult life. Employers, landlords, and nosy neighbors won’t know about your past, and you will be able to start fresh. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney ensures the expungement process goes smoothly. The criminal lawyers at our office have successfully aided clients in the expungement process for over 25 years. We understand the complex court system, especially as it relates to expungement.