Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Attorney

What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested In Colorado Springs

According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), one of the most important things you can do when dealing with police is to remember that you have rights and to protect those rights through your actions. This includes:

• The right to remain silent, until you have an attorney present for the questioning. You must state your name to an officer if asked.
• However, following this, you can clearly state in response to the officer’s questions, “I wish to invoke my right to remain silent, and I would like an attorney.”
• If you have invoked your right to remain silent and have requested an attorney, you do not have to say anything further. Do not make additional statements, offer excuses or explanations, or sign anything until your attorney is with you.
• Remember that you do not have to consent to a search of your property under the Fourth Amendment. During your arrest, you may be subjected to a pat-down of your clothing to ensure you do not have a weapon. Be aware that stating that you do not consent to a search of your property does not guarantee that this search will not take place, but making your objections known before the search takes place can preserve your rights in later proceedings.
• Hire an experienced Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney to provide further guidance and assistance as you navigate the criminal procedure.

Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Attorney – Practice Areas

We offer experienced representation of clients who are facing the following criminal charges:

Domestic Violence

Colorado law defines domestic violence as an act or threatened act of violence upon a person with whom the accused has had an intimate relationship. Domestic violence is not an independent crime but a sentence enhancement, meaning it increases the penalty of an offense perpetrated against a current or former dating partner or spouse.

Traffic Violations

Traffic violations can range from a speeding ticket or distracted driving to DUI to felony vehicular homicide. A criminal defense attorney can not only prevent you from losing points off your license that would place you in jeopardy of being unable to legally drive in the state but can also protect your freedom and finances from charges that could result in incarceration or heavy fines.

DUI

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can carry stiff DUI consequences in Colorado, even for first-time offenders. A first-offense DUI carries a penalty of up to one year in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, up to 96 hours of useful public service, and a driver’s license suspension of up to 9 months. The penalties are even more severe for repeat DUI convictions. An experienced Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney can work to get your charge reduced or even dismissed if the facts of your case allow it.

Unlawful Distribution

Unlawful distribution of a controlled substance in Colorado is a drug charge that can result in a misdemeanor and probation, or it can result in lengthy incarceration and a fine of up to $1 million, depending on the type of drug distribution and the circumstances of the case.

Marijuana Cultivation

In spite of the legal status of both the recreational and medical use of marijuana for individuals age 21 or older in Colorado, it is still a crime to grow, possess, or sell large amounts of the drug. Further, the state is very strict on marijuana drug charges in which a minor has been accused of cultivating the drug or an adult is furnishing the drug to minors.

Assault and Battery

Assault is defined in state law as knowingly or recklessly causing bodily harm to another individual, with or without a weapon. While the sentencing of aggravated assault crimes varies widely, those who are convicted of 1st-degree felony assault face up to 32 years in prison and up to $750,000 in fines.

Theft

Felony theft is a charge given to crimes in which a person is accused of stealing another person’s property worth at least $2,000 or any amount of property from an elderly or disabled individual. Upon conviction of a felony theft charge, you can face many years of incarceration and thousands of dollars in financial penalties.

Weapons Charge

Colorado allows those 18 years or older to possess firearms unless prohibited from doing so. Some of the conditions that will prohibit a person from being able to legally carry a weapon include those who are fugitives from justice; those who are under a restraining order; illegal immigrants; those who are under the influence of or addicted to illegal drugs; and those who are convicted of a felony.

PTSD Defense

Since the 1970s, post-traumatic stress disorder has been used as an insanity defense. If you have been accused of a crime and suffer from PTSD, it is important to inform your attorney of this fact, as it could help reduce the consequences you face.

Expungement

Expungement is a process of sealing records, making them inaccessible to your employers on a background check or other members of the public.

Drug Possession

Possessing certain illegal drugs in Colorado can result in serious consequences. Let your experienced criminal defense attorney provide guidance that can assist you in avoiding jail time and financial penalties for this charge.