Denver Drug Crimes Lawyer
Expert Legal Representation for Drug-Related Charges in Denver
The severity of penalties for drug crimes in Colorado is determined by the type and quantity of drugs involved. Legal charges can vary from misdemeanor offenses, such as possession of drug paraphernalia or marijuana, to more serious felony charges. These felonies include possession of harder drugs, intent to sell and deliver, and drug trafficking. Each category carries distinct legal consequences, contact our experienced Denver drug crimes lawyer for more information. Everyone makes mistakes. Don’t let your mistake define you, call DeChant Law.
Understanding Your Situation: The Impact of Drug Charges
Drug charges in Colorado cover a broad spectrum, each with distinct legal implications. These charges can range from minor possession to more serious offenses like distribution and manufacturing. While the specifics of the law are complex, it’s important to recognize the potential impact of these charges on one’s life. DeChant Law focuses on understanding the unique aspects of each case, providing informed support and guidance without offering specific legal advice.
Probable Defenses Against Drug Crimes
Facing a drug charge can be one of the most challenging moments of your life. Here at DeChant Law, we understand the confusion, fear, and uncertainty that come with these allegations. It’s not just a legal issue; it’s about your future, your freedom, and your peace of mind. Mr. DeChant is here not only as your legal defender but as your ally in this journey, offering both expert legal advice and compassionate support. Here, you find more than legal expertise; you find a partnership committed to safeguarding your future. For a conviction in criminal cases, it’s the state’s responsibility to prove the alleged crime’s elements.
Drug crimes are the most common crimes to find Fourth Amendment search violations in. Police notoriously overstep when searching your house, person, car, or belongings when they believe drugs may be present. At DeChant Law, our seasoned drug crime attorney meticulously reviews and contests the state’s evidence and case rationale, providing comprehensive and assertive defense to our clients. We review all aspects of the government’s case and will leverage any violations of your rights we may find.
Potential Penalties For Drug Offenses
Colorado has separate felony and misdemeanor classes for drug crimes. You may hear the Judge, prosecution or defense attorneys refer to these classes as DM1 or DF1, meaning Drug Misdemeanor or Drug Felony. These crimes carry less potential punishments than their counterparts. A class four felony carries a presumptive 2 – 6 year prison sentence while a class 4 drug felony carries a presumptive 0.5 – 1 year prison sentence. For a conviction in criminal cases, it’s the state’s responsibility to prove the alleged crime’s elements. The chart below can be used as a guide to see what potential penalties you are facing, but it is important to contact DeChant Law for the most up-to-date information on the penalties you are facing, as every case is different.
Class | Presumptive | Aggravated | Min $ | Max $ | Parole |
DF1 | 8-32 years | 12-32 years | $5000 | $1,000,000 | 3 years |
DF2 | 4-8 years | 8-16 years | $3000 | $750,000 | 2 years |
DF3 | 2-4 years | 4-6 years | $2000 | $500,000 | 1 year |
DF4 | 6 m-1year | 1-2 years | $1000 | $100,000 | 1 year |
Min Jail | Max Jail | ||||
DM1 | 6 months | 18 months | $500 | $5000 | |
DM2 | 0 | 364 days | $50 | $750 |
Drug Schedules
Drugs are placed on various drug schedules mainly based on the substance’s potential for abuse and if the substance currently has an accepted medical use in the U.S. The schedule of the drug and the amount you are alleged to possess determines what type of crime you will be charged with.
Schedule I 18-18-203 C.R.S.
Substances that have a high potential for abuse and have no accepted medical treatment in U.S. Examples: cocaine, heroin, and ecstasy.
Schedule II 18-18-204 C.R.S.
Substances that have a high potential for abuse and have accepted medical treatments in the U.S. Examples: opium, oxycodone, codeine, morphine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine.
Schedule III 18-18-205 C.R.S.
Substances that have a potential for abuse and have accepted medical treatments in the U.S. Examples: anabolic steroids, ketamine, and lysergic acid.
Schedule IV 18-18-206 C.R.S.
Substances are those with a low potential for abuse and have accepted medical treatments in the U.S. Examples: Clonazepam, Xanax, Valium, Zolpidem, Zaleplon.
Schedule V 18-18-207 C.R.S.
Substances are those with a low potential for abuse and have accepted medical treatments in the U.S.. Many of these substances are found in other schedules. The difference is a substance in this category is found in a smaller amount.
Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia 18-18–428 C.R.S.
A person commits possession of drug paraphernalia if s/he possesses drug paraphernalia and knows or reasonably should know that the drug paraphernalia could be used under circumstances in violation of the laws of this state. Any person who commits possession of drug paraphernalia commits a class 2 petty offense and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars.
Legal Ramifications and Penalties of Drug Charges in Colorado
DeChant Law recognizes the significant impact that drug charge convictions can have on an individual’s life. The consequences of such convictions vary, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Generally, they can include fines, probation, community service, and in more serious cases, imprisonment. Beyond legal penalties, a drug conviction can lead to long-lasting effects on employment opportunities, educational prospects, and personal relationships. Understanding these potential outcomes is crucial, and our team is here to provide guidance and support through this complex legal landscape.
Contact DeChant Law for a Free Consultation
If you’re facing drug charges and need legal guidance, DeChant Law is here to help. We won’t be the firm that calls you “my client” in court, you will always be Mr., Ms., or Mrs. here. Reach out to us at 303-409-7500 for a free consultation to discuss your case in detail. We’re committed to providing you with a comprehensive defense strategy and a personalized approach to your case.