A Second Chance, More Than 20 Years in the Making: A Colorado Pardon Success Story

Governor Jared Polis recently granted a full pardon to a client of A. Moffitt Law, bringing a successful conclusion to a process that began more than three years ago.

In 2004, my client was convicted of possessing less than one gram of methamphetamine, a felony offense at the time. Under Colorado law today, the same conduct would generally be classified as a misdemeanor.

But my client's story is about much more than an old conviction. Over the past two decades, he has transformed his life through sobriety, rehabilitation, hard work, and devotion to his family. Despite those accomplishments, his conviction continued to carry consequences long after he completed his sentence.

After more than three years of advocacy, Governor Polis recognized his rehabilitation and granted him a pardon.

Three Years of Persistence

We initially submitted my client's pardon application more than three years ago. Since then, we continued to update his application with information about his accomplishments, rehabilitation, and ongoing commitment to his family and community.

Every year around the holidays, we would wait to see whether the Governor would consider his application. Each year passed without the relief we had hoped for, but we continued advocating on his behalf.

Finally, in 2026, we received the news we had been waiting for: Governor Polis had granted his pardon.

This was my first successful pardon application, and it was an especially meaningful result after years of working with this client.

Why a Colorado Pardon Matters

A criminal conviction can have consequences that extend far beyond the original sentence. Even decades after completing probation or incarceration, individuals may encounter barriers involving employment, professional licensing, and other rights.

Colorado offers several forms of post-conviction relief, including criminal record sealing and executive clemency. While record sealing can limit public access to criminal records, a pardon provides a different form of relief.

Under Colorado law, a gubernatorial pardon generally removes the collateral legal consequences associated with the pardoned conviction, unless the pardon itself imposes limitations.

In my client's case, the pardon restored his rights of citizenship, including firearms privileges. This was particularly meaningful because record sealing alone would not have provided the same relief.

A pardon does not automatically erase or seal a criminal conviction. However, Colorado law provides a separate process for seeking to seal a conviction that has received a full and unconditional pardon.

People Are More Than Their Convictions

One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping people move beyond their criminal records.

My client's conviction occurred more than 20 years ago. Since then, he has demonstrated that a person can take responsibility for past conduct, make meaningful changes, and build a life that reflects those changes.

Our criminal justice system should recognize rehabilitation. People who have spent decades rebuilding their lives deserve opportunities to move forward without being permanently defined by their past.

I am incredibly proud of my client and the work he has put into reaching this point. I am also grateful to Governor Polis for recognizing his rehabilitation and granting this relief. A Colorado Governor's Pardon Success Story.

Exploring Pardons and Post-conviction Relief in Colorado

Not every criminal conviction is eligible for record sealing, and not every individual will qualify for a pardon. However, for people who have completed their sentences and demonstrated meaningful rehabilitation, executive clemency may be an avenue worth exploring.

At A. Moffitt Law, I assist clients with Colorado criminal record sealing, pardon applications, post-conviction relief, and questions involving restoration of firearm rights.

If you have an old Colorado conviction that continues to affect your life, contact A. Moffitt Law to discuss whether there may be options for relief.

A conviction does not have to define the rest of your life.

This article provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases.