If you were arrested or charged with a crime, but you were never convicted, you may be surprised to learn that you still have a record at the Larimer County Courts. Any time a person is arrested and criminally charged, they will have a non-conviction record in their file. These records are accessible to the public, which can decrease chances of finding a job, buying a house, or applying to a university. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, keep reading as our top criminal defense lawyers discuss the importance of sealing these records:
1. What are Non-Conviction Records at the Larimer County Courts?
Non-conviction records at the Larimer County Courts are those that are in a person’s file when they have been arrested or charged with a crime, but not convicted. People with non-conviction records include those who were:
- Arrested, but never charged with a crime. That is, the District Attorney declined to file charges against the person who was arrested.
- Criminally charged, but never convicted. The charges against the defendant were dismissed, and there was never a conviction. This could be because of successful completion of a deferred judgment and sentence, or because the DA dismissed the charges due to having a weak case.
2. Why Should I Seal Non-Conviction Records in Fort Collins?
If you have a non-conviction record, it is in your best interest to have it sealed in Fort Collins. Like Larimer County Court criminal records, non-conviction records are still publicly accessible. This means that if you are applying for a job or trying to find housing, a potential employer or landlord can view your records. Unfortunately, the fact that you weren’t convicted may not make a difference. Because of these records, you could be turned down for a job or housing opportunity – even if you’re otherwise qualified. Sealing these records means that they can no longer be viewed by the public, allowing you to be able to live in freedom again.
3. What is the Process for Sealing a Non-Conviction Record in Loveland and Estes Park?
The process for sealing a non-conviction record in Loveland and Estes Park varies from case to case. Generally, however, it can be broken down as follows:
- You file a Motion to Seal with the Larimer County Courts. If you hired a criminal defense lawyer to seal your records, they will do this on your behalf.
- The Courts file an Order in response to your Motion. Depending on their decision, they may file an Order or Motion to:
- Seal the records.
- Have a hearing to determine whether the records should be sealed.
- Deny the Motion for the records to be sealed. If this takes place, the Courts must provide an explanation for the rejection.
4. Do I Need a Top Larimer County Criminal Defense Lawyer to Seal Records?
While you do not need to hire a top Larimer County criminal defense lawyer to seal non-conviction records, we do still recommend it. A top criminal defense lawyer with years of experience with sealing records is less prone to making mistakes that could result in your Motion to Seal being rejected. If the Courts set a hearing for your record sealing, your lawyer will then represent you at your court appearance. The likelihood of having your records sealed increases significantly with a top criminal defense attorney whose top priority is restoring your freedoms. Don’t take chances by trying to seal your records alone, and contact a top criminal defense lawyer today.
Are you seeking to have a non-conviction record sealed? Call 970-658-0007 to discuss your case today with a top criminal defense lawyer at the O’Malley Law Office. Together, we can protect your future.
The location for the Larimer County Courthouse is 201 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado. We’ll see you there!
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