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Having an assault-related offense on your criminal record can be a heavy burden that affects various aspects of your life, from employment opportunities to housing and personal relationships. In Colorado, there is hope for those looking to rebuild their lives after a past mistake.

The legal process of Sealing can provide a fresh start by removing certain offenses from your criminal record. This blog aims to educate and inform you about the possibility of expunging an assault-related offense in Colorado, the eligibility criteria, and the process involved.

Understanding Assault Charges in Colorado

Assault-related offenses in Colorado encompass a range of charges, including assault, menacing, and domestic violence-related offenses. These offenses can be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, with varying degrees of severity.

Assault charges can arise from physical altercations, threats, or other forms of aggressive behavior. It’s important to note that Colorado law differentiates between assault on different types of victims, such as law enforcement officers, medical personnel, or vulnerable individuals.

Eligibility for Assault Expungement

Before considering assault expungement, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria. Colorado law allows for the Sealing of specific assault-related offenses under certain conditions.:

You must have completed all aspects of your sentence, including jail or prison time, probation, and payment of fines and restitution. There is a waiting period before you can apply for expungement. This period varies depending on the offense. Misdemeanor assault-related offenses usually have a shorter waiting period than felonies.

You must not have any new convictions since the completion of your sentence. Depending on the specific assault-related offense, you may need to meet additional conditions outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes.

The Sealing Process

The Sealing process in Colorado is a legal procedure that typically involves several steps:

Before applying for expungement, you need to obtain a copy of your criminal record to verify the eligibility of your case. Draft a petition for expungement, including all necessary information about your case, sentencing, and compliance with the waiting period and other requirements. It’s crucial to be accurate and complete in your petition.

Submit your Sealing petition to the appropriate court in the county where you were charged or convicted. Be prepared to pay a filing fee. You must serve notice of your expungement petition to the prosecutor’s office and any other relevant parties. They will have an opportunity to respond to your petition.

A judge will review your petition and may schedule a court hearing to discuss your case. The judge will consider the specifics of your situation and your rehabilitation efforts. The judge will make a decision whether to grant or deny your Sealing request. If approved, your assault-related offense will be sealed from public view, providing you with a fresh start.

Benefits of Assault Sealing

Expunging an assault-related offense from your criminal record can have numerous benefits, including:

Improved employment prospects: With a clean record, you may find it easier to secure gainful employment and advance in your career.

Better housing opportunities: Many landlords perform background checks, and expunging your offense can increase your chances of finding stable housing.

Restoration of civil rights: Sealing may restore some of your civil rights, such as the right to vote and possess firearms.

Enhanced personal relationships: Removing the stigma of a criminal record can improve personal relationships, making it easier to build trust with friends and family.

Assault Sealing In Colorado

Assault Sealing in Colorado offers individuals a second chance to rebuild their lives after an assault-related offense. It is essential to understand the eligibility criteria and the expungement process, and to seek legal counsel to guide you through this complex legal journey.

With the assistance of legal professionals, you can take the necessary steps to move forward and leave your past behind, opening doors to a brighter and more promising future.

About the Author:

Andrew Bryant is a well-respected Colorado Springs criminal attorney who has been practicing in the area for years. A Colorado native, he returned to the home he loves after graduating from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Now, he uses the knowledge he gained as an El Paso County District Attorney to fight tirelessly for his clients’ rights. He is AV-Preeminent rated, has been recognized for his work by The National Trial Lawyers, and has been named to Best of the Springs lists by The Gazette for years.