Practice Areas

DUI and DWAI Colorado charges DWAI at a lower impairment threshold than DUI, and a first arrest starts two separate cases: one in court and one at the DMV. Domestic Violence Domestic violence is not a standalone charge in Colorado but a sentence enhancer attached to another offense, and it triggers mandatory arrest and a protection order. Assault Assault runs from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 3 felony depending on the injury alleged, what was used, and who the complaining witness is. Drug Crimes Possession, distribution and manufacturing carry very different exposure in Colorado, and how the substance was found is often the strongest issue in the case. Felonies Colorado sorts felonies into six classes with presumptive ranges, and aggravating findings can push a sentence well past the top of the ordinary range. Misdemeanors A misdemeanor conviction still shows on background checks for housing and employment long after the fine is paid. Theft Theft is graded by the value of what was taken, so the difference between a petty offense and a felony can turn on a single disputed number. Weapons Charges Possession of a weapon by a previous offender is charged separately from whatever brought officers to the scene, and it carries its own penalties. Violent Crimes Offenses designated crimes of violence carry mandatory prison and remove much of the sentencing discretion a judge would otherwise have. Sex Offenses The registration consequences of a sex offense conviction often outlast the sentence itself and reach housing, employment and family law. White Collar Crimes Fraud, forgery and embezzlement cases are built on documents and records, which means the defense usually starts long before any courtroom appearance. Traffic Offenses Points accumulate quietly, and drivers often learn they are facing a suspension only after the offense that pushed them over the limit. DMV Hearings You have seven days from a Notice of Revocation to request a hearing, and missing that window forfeits the chance to contest the revocation. Juvenile Charges Juvenile cases follow their own procedure and their own sentencing options, and decisions made early can affect whether a case stays in juvenile court. Military Defense Service members stationed in El Paso County face civilian charges that can carry command and career consequences alongside the criminal case. Protection Orders A mandatory protection order issues automatically in a criminal case and can keep you out of your own home before any finding of guilt. Probation Violations A revocation hearing uses a lower standard of proof than a trial, and the original sentence is back on the table. Minor In Possession An MIP reaches beyond the fine into driving privileges, school discipline and scholarship eligibility for anyone under twenty-one. Record Sealing Colorado has widened what can be sealed in recent years, and eligibility depends on the disposition and how much time has passed.