File Retention Policy

How We Protect and Store Your File

Your case file contains sensitive personal information, and protecting it is part of our commitment to you. While we represent you — and after your case is closed — your file is stored securely in our case‑management system.

We use encryption, multi‑factor authentication, strong passwords, and secure backups to safeguard your information.

How Long We Keep Your File

Colorado law requires us to keep case files for only a certain amount of time. Once that period passes, we must destroy the file.

Below is the required retention schedule:

Case Outcome and Retention Periods

Death Sentence, Life Without Parole, Indeterminate Sentence: Life of the Client

Felony (Appealed): 8 Years

Felony (No Appeal): 5 Years

Misdemeanor or Juvenile Case: 3 Years

Acquittal / Dismissal / Withdrawal / Failure to Appear / Similar Outcomes: 1 Year

How Files Are Destroyed

When the retention period ends, the file is permanently destroyed:

• Physical documents are securely shredded.

• Digital records are permanently deleted.

• No duplicates of any documents are kept.

This applies to all case‑related materials — reports, motions, court orders, emails, exhibits, media files, and anything else connected to your case.

If You Think You’ll Need Your File Later

If your case may affect future matters — such as civil litigation, immigration, or sentence‑related issues — you should keep and back up the documents we provide to you. Once your file reaches the end of its retention period, it cannot be recovered.

If you have questions or want guidance about which documents to keep, please reach out. Protecting your rights now and in the future is part of our commitment to you.

CDH Law Office, PLLC

Policy: File Retention Policy
Last Updated: 2026-02-18