Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience, especially in Denver, where the legal system can be complex and unforgiving. Whether you’re accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, having the right legal representation is crucial to safeguarding your rights and future. At DeChant Law, our Denver criminal defense lawyer understands the challenges you’re facing and are committed to providing comprehensive and effective defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.
Reid has experience as both a public defender and in private practice. He handled cases as a public defender in Denver, Broomfield, and Adams County where he defended traffic offenses, DUI/DWAI, thefts, sexual assaults, homicides, and everything in between. Throughout his experience as a public defender, he recognized that most clients come to him at the lowest point in their life. Not only do these clients need help in the courtroom, but they need someone who cares about their story and fights for what is best for them in their situation. At Trial Lawyers College, Reid learned the power of storytelling in the courtroom. It begins with having compassion for the client and his/her story.
Common Criminal Charges in Denver
Denver, like any major city, sees a range of criminal charges. Some of the most common include:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Denver takes DUI offenses seriously, with strict penalties for those convicted. Whether it’s alcohol or drugs, operating a vehicle under the influence can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Drug Possession: Possession of controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription, can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Assault and Battery: Charges of assault and battery involve physical harm or threats of harm against another person. Depending on the circumstances, these charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
Theft and Burglary: Denver prosecutes theft crimes vigorously, whether it’s shoplifting, burglary, or robbery. The severity of the charge often depends on the value of the stolen property and whether force or violence was involved.
Domestic Violence: Allegations of domestic violence can have significant repercussions, including restraining orders and loss of custody rights. It’s essential to seek legal counsel immediately if you’re facing these charges.
What to do After an Arrest in Denver, CO
If you get arrested in Denver, it’s crucial to know your rights and the steps to take to protect yourself. Here’s a guide on what to do:
Stay Calm and Comply
- Stay Calm: Keep your composure to avoid escalating the situation.
- Comply with Officers: Follow the instructions given by law enforcement officers. Resisting arrest can lead to additional charges.
Know Your Rights
- Right to Remain Silent: Exercise your right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. Inform the officers that you wish to remain silent and request an attorney.
- Right to an Attorney: Request an attorney immediately. If you cannot afford one, a public defender will be provided.
Booking and Bail
- Booking Process: You will be taken to a police station for booking, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information.
- Posting Bail: You may be eligible to post bail to be released from custody. Contact a bail bondsman if necessary.
Contact an Attorney
- Hire a Defense Attorney: Contact a criminal defense attorney who specializes in the charges you are facing. If you cannot afford one, request a public defender.
Prepare for Court
- Understand the Charges: Make sure you fully understand the charges against you. Your attorney can explain the specifics and potential consequences.
- Gather Evidence: Work with your attorney to gather evidence and witness statements that could support your defense.
Attend Court Hearings
- Attend All Court Dates: Make sure to attend all scheduled court hearings. Missing a court date can lead to additional legal issues.
- Follow Legal Advice: Follow your attorney’s advice and strategies throughout the legal process.
Post-Arrest Actions
- Avoid Discussing Your Case: Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Conversations with friends, family, or on social media can be used against you.
- Stay Informed: Stay informed about your case and remain proactive in your defense.
Utilize Support Services
- Counseling Services: Consider seeking counseling services to help cope with the stress of the arrest and legal proceedings.
- Community Resources: Use community resources for additional support and guidance throughout the process.
Following these steps can help you navigate the legal system more effectively and protect your rights after an arrest in Denver, CO.
Denver Criminal Court Process
The criminal court process in Denver, CO, involves several stages from the initial arrest to the resolution of the case. Here’s an overview of each step:
Arrest and Booking
- Arrest: Law enforcement officers detain and arrest the individual suspected of committing a crime.
- Booking: The arrested person is taken to a police station where they are fingerprinted, photographed, and their personal information is recorded.
Initial Appearance
- Timeline: Usually occurs within 24-48 hours of arrest.
- Purpose: The judge informs the defendant of the charges, their rights, and determines bail or conditions for release.
Bail and Bond Hearing
- Bail Determination: The judge sets bail, which the defendant can post to be released from custody.
- Bond Options: Defendants can post cash bail or use a bail bondsman to pay a percentage of the bail amount.
Arraignment
- Charges: The formal reading of charges in court.
- Plea: The defendant enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Legal Representation: If the defendant does not have an attorney, one will be appointed if they qualify.
Pre-Trial Proceedings
- Discovery: Both the prosecution and defense exchange evidence and information.
- Motions: Pre-trial motions can be filed to resolve legal issues, such as suppressing evidence or dismissing charges.
- Plea Bargaining: The defense and prosecution may negotiate a plea deal to avoid trial.
Trial
- Jury Selection: A jury is selected through a process called voir dire.
- Opening Statements: Both sides present their case overview to the jury.
- Presentation of Evidence: The prosecution and defense present evidence and call witnesses.
- Closing Arguments: Both sides summarize their cases.
- Jury Deliberation: The jury deliberates and reaches a verdict.
- Verdict: The jury delivers a verdict of guilty or not guilty.
Sentencing
- Guilty Verdict: If found guilty, the judge sets a date for sentencing.
- Sentencing Hearing: The judge considers factors such as the severity of the crime, criminal history, and any mitigating circumstances to determine the appropriate sentence.
Post-Trial Motions
- Appeals: The defendant can appeal the conviction or sentence if they believe there was a legal error during the trial.
- Post-Conviction Relief: Additional motions can be filed to seek relief, such as a new trial or sentence reduction.
Probation and Parole
- Probation: Instead of jail time, the defendant may be sentenced to probation with specific conditions to follow.
- Parole: Early release from prison under supervision, with conditions similar to probation.
Understanding these stages can help defendants navigate the criminal court process in Denver more effectively.
Key Points to Remember
- Legal Representation: Having a skilled Denver criminal lawyer is crucial at every stage of the process.
- Rights: Defendants have the right to remain silent, to an attorney, and to a fair trial.
- Bail: Posting bail allows the defendant to be released from custody while awaiting trial.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Can significantly impact the outcome of the case by addressing legal issues before trial.
- Trial and Sentencing: The trial determines guilt, and sentencing determines the punishment if convicted.
How DeChant Law Can Help
At DeChant Law, we have extensive experience defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges in Denver. Our team of dedicated attorneys understands the nuances of Colorado’s legal system and is committed to providing aggressive advocacy on behalf of our clients.
When you choose DeChant Law to represent you, you can expect:
Personalized Attention: We take the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly investigate your case, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Skilled Negotiation: We have a track record of success in negotiating favorable plea agreements and alternative sentencing options for our clients, helping them avoid harsh penalties whenever possible.
Aggressive Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, you can trust our attorneys to vigorously defend your rights in the courtroom, presenting compelling evidence and arguments on your behalf.
Compassionate Support: We understand that facing criminal charges can be emotionally challenging. That’s why we’re here to provide compassionate support and guidance every step of the way, ensuring you feel informed and empowered throughout the legal process.
Popular Neighborhoods Around Denver
- LoDo (Lower Downtown)
- Capitol Hill
- Cherry Creek
- RiNo (River North Art District)
- Highlands
- Wash Park (Washington Park)
- Five Points
- South Broadway (SoBo)
- Golden Triangle
- Sloan’s Lake
- Berkeley
- City Park
Don’t Face Criminal Charges Alone, Contact a Denver Criminal Lawyer
At DeChant Law, you will be a part of the team and not just a client. Have you been in court and heard an attorney refer to their client as “my client?” Be assured, this unacceptable practice is non-existent at DeChant Law. Our client-focused defense keeps you involved at every step of the way so that you can make the best decision for you and your family. Reid will create a personalized mitigation plan and leave no stone unturned while negotiating with the prosecution. At the end of the day, if the prosecution’s offer falls short of your expectations, our experienced Denver criminal defense attorney is prepared to take the case to trial and zealously advocate for what is just. Contact DeChant Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and future.