Our Blogs

It’s not uncommon for people to apply for a job, loan, or even a travel visa in Colorado and receive a surprise denial due to their criminal record. Perhaps you have never been convicted of a crime, so how is it possible that a criminal record would impact your life now?

Well, it is possible – because of the information compiled in an individual’s criminal history.

In Colorado, any time you’re arrested, even if no charges aren’t filed, they’re dropped, or the case against you is dismissed, it goes on your criminal record. The only way to remove it is to expunge or seal the record, which can be a problem if you don’t realize you have a record in need of this process.

Here’s what you need to know about criminal records in Colorado, including what types of things can go on record and how you can access your own to see what you may be dealing with.

What Is On a Criminal Record?

Criminal records list basic demographics, including your name, birthday, current and previous addresses, and any known aliases. Both misdemeanor and felony arrest dates are cited on a criminal record, in effect becoming a part of your criminal history even if you were never convicted.

Types of crimes that go on a criminal record include:

Violent Crimes

Arrests or convictions for violent crimes such as robbery, murder, aggravated assault, and rape will go on a criminal record. Crimes against minors such as physical abuse or sexual assault are also considered violent crimes.

Property Crimes

Property crimes include actions such as theft, arson, fraud, shoplifting, burglary, embezzlement, vehicle theft, and forgery. The record may also indicate the value of the property that was stolen or damaged.

Traffic Crimes

Some traffic crimes are included in criminal records such as driving under the influence (DUI), driving without a license, or reckless driving. In general, small traffic violations, like citations for parking and speeding tickets, are not incorporated into a person’s criminal history.

Additional Crimes

If you’ve ever been convicted of other crimes – for instance, anything related to drugs, disorderly conduct, or public intoxication – these convictions will also be included in your criminal record.

What’s Not Included

Your criminal record will not cite any civil judgments made against you, such as bankruptcy or actions by creditors. Also, juvenile records and records sealed by the courts will not show up on a criminal record available to the public.

How to Find Out About Your Criminal Record

If you want to see what is on your criminal record, you can request a copy. In Colorado, the records are maintained by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

You can call them by phone to request a copy. You can also go online, set up an account, and make a request. There is a fee to obtain your records, but it’s a nominal fee, under $10.

A criminal record can follow you around, whether or not you were ever convicted of a charge. It’s a good idea to know what is on your record so that you can take steps to have certain information expunged or sealed if possible. It’s also good to know what future employers may find.

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.