WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court raised serious doubts Monday about Colorado’s practice of not refunding court fees and other costs to people who are convicted of crimes but later exonerated.

Most justices hearing arguments in the case seemed concerned that refusing to refund the money violates due process rights.

The case involves two people whose convictions for sexual offenses were later thrown out. One had paid about $700 toward the court fees and victim restitution while the other paid more than $4,400 in similar costs.

Colorado’s highest court said the defendants could not get a refund unless they proved their innocence by clear and convincing evidence in a separate proceeding.

The defendants say it’s unfair to require them to prove their innocence to get court costs back.

Associated Press