How to Seal an Eviction Record in Colorado

If you were evicted in Colorado, that court record can make it much harder to rent in the future. However, Colorado law allows certain eviction records to be sealed, protecting your rental history from future landlords and credit checks. Understanding the process and using the right forms can help renters move forward after an eviction.

Understanding Eviction Record Sealing in Colorado

Sealing your eviction record means making it private, so the public—including most landlords and employers—can no longer see it. In Colorado, eligible renters can ask the court to seal eviction records (also called unlawful detainer actions) under certain conditions, as outlined in the Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 13.^[1] This step can give you a fresh start and make it easier to rent in the future.

Am I Eligible to Seal My Eviction Record?

Colorado courts allow most renters to ask for their eviction case to be sealed if:

• You won your case, or it was dismissed
• You and your landlord agreed to seal as part of a settlement
• The court granted your request based on other criteria (such as hardship or time passed since the eviction)

Cases that involve certain unlawful or dangerous behavior may not be eligible. It's important to review the details of your case or seek legal help if unsure.

Which Court Handles Record Sealing?

Eviction cases and sealing requests are handled by the Colorado County Courts where the eviction was originally filed. Each county court has procedures for filing and hearing sealing requests.

Required Forms for Sealing an Eviction Record

To begin, you’ll need specific court-approved forms. Here are the most commonly required documents:

• Motion to Seal (JDF 146, JDF 603 or JDF 1316):
  • Used by renters to formally ask the court to seal an eviction record.
  • For most civil eviction cases, use JDF 146 Motion to Seal. For multiple records, see JDF 603 Petition to Seal Civil Case Records.
  • Example: If a renter’s eviction case was dismissed in Adams County, they would fill out JDF 146 and submit it to Adams County Court.
• Order to Seal (JDF 147):
  • The judge uses this form to grant the sealing request.
  • Submit a completed draft along with your Motion to Seal. Download the official JDF 147 Order to Seal.

All forms are available on the Colorado Judicial Branch Forms website.

How to Seal an Eviction Record: Step-by-Step

Sealing an eviction record in Colorado involves preparing your forms, filing your request, and potentially appearing in court. Below you’ll find key steps to guide you through the process.

Step 1: Obtain and Complete the Right Forms

• Download the correct Motion to Seal form (usually JDF 146, JDF 603, or JDF 1316).
• Fill out all required fields. Be accurate and thorough, as missing information can delay your case.

Step 2: File the Motion with the Correct Court

• File your completed motion in the county court where your eviction case was heard.
• Bring or mail the forms, or use electronic filing if available.
• Some counties charge a small fee to file. Ask the court about fee waivers if you cannot pay.

Step 3: Notify Other Parties (If Required)

• You may need to provide notice of your motion to your former landlord or opposing parties, especially if the eviction was recent or contested. The court can provide specific instructions.

Step 4: Court Review and Possible Hearing

• The judge reviews your request. In some cases, you may be asked to come for a hearing and explain why sealing is appropriate.
• If approved, the court will sign the Order to Seal (JDF 147).

Step 5: Finalize the Sealing

• Once granted, your eviction record will be sealed and removed from public access. You may need to follow up with private background check companies to ensure the record is no longer reported.

What Happens After Your Record Is Sealed?

Landlords, employers, and the public will not be able to view a sealed eviction record. In most cases, you do not have to disclose the sealed case when applying for housing. However, sealed records can still be seen by some government agencies and the court itself in limited situations.^[2]

FAQ: Sealing Eviction Records in Colorado

1. Who qualifies to seal an eviction record in Colorado?
   Most renters whose eviction case was dismissed, decided in their favor, or resolved with a sealing agreement can apply. Consult the court for eligibility in your situation.
2. Does sealing a record erase the eviction?
   No. Sealing makes the record inaccessible to the public, but it remains on file with the court and may be available to law enforcement.
3. How long does the sealing process take?
   It varies by county, but typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on court scheduling and whether a hearing is needed.
4. Can I seal multiple eviction cases at once?
   Yes. Use JDF 603 to request sealing of more than one case at a time.
5. Where can I find help with court forms?
   The Colorado Judicial Branch Self Help section has guides and in-person clinic schedules.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Judicial Branch – Forms, court locator, self-help materials, and sealing procedures
• Colorado Legal Services – Legal aid for renters, including help with eviction and sealing forms
• Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) – Rental Assistance & Housing Programs
• Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 13 (Civil Actions, Including Eviction and Sealing Laws)

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1. See Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 13, Article 40 – Forcible Entry and Detainer (Eviction), Sections 13-40-101 et seq., and section 13-40-127 on record sealing.
2. Court sealing rules and eligibility confirmed via the Colorado Judicial Branch – Record Sealing page.

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