Colorado Criminal Defense Lawyer

Colorado Defense Attorneys

The Colorado criminal defense lawyers at Baker Law Group provide the expertise needed when criminal charges threaten your future.

When you are charged with a crime in Colorado, the stakes can feel overwhelming. A conviction can lead to jail time, steep fines, and a criminal record that could follow you for years—potentially jeopardizing employment, housing, and your reputation.

If you are charged with a minor misdemeanor or a significant felony, the experienced Colorado criminal defense lawyers at Baker Law Group are ready to fight for your rights, contact us today.

At Baker Law Group, we believe that everyone is entitled to a dedicated, personalized defense.

Our team works tirelessly to protect our clients’ rights, no matter how serious the allegations.

If you need a Colorado criminal defense lawyer, our firm is here to advocate for you every step of the way.

Defining Criminal Law in Colorado

Colorado criminal law encompasses a broad range of offenses, from minor infractions to serious felonies. The state enforces strict penalties for criminal convictions, including fines, probation, community service, and imprisonment. Additionally, a criminal record can have long-lasting effects on your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses.

Baker Law Group understands the high stakes involved in criminal cases. We provide comprehensive legal defense services tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. By thoroughly analyzing evidence, challenging procedural errors, and negotiating with prosecutors, we aim to safeguard your rights and future.

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Colorado

Colorado’s criminal code covers a wide range of offenses, from misdemeanors and traffic violations to high-level felonies and violent crimes. Charges can arise under multiple sections of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.), including Title 18 (Criminal Code) or Title 42 (Traffic Offenses). Convictions may lead to life-altering penalties, so hiring a competent criminal defense lawyer in Colorado is essential.

Risks of Handling a Case Without Representation

• Inadmissible Evidence Overlooked: You might not recognize when evidence was obtained illegally or when procedural violations occurred.
• Plea Bargaining Pitfalls: Negotiating with prosecutors can be intimidating. Without experience, you risk accepting disadvantageous plea deals.
• Limited Courtroom Experience: Defending yourself at trial requires knowledge of Colorado criminal law, procedural rules, and strategies for cross-examining witnesses.
• Long-Term Consequences: Even a minor misdemeanor can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting you personally and professionally for years to come.

A Colorado criminal lawyer can analyze the details of your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and advocate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or a full dismissal.

Common Criminal Offenses in Colorado

Our criminal defense expertise encompasses a wide spectrum of legal challenges, including but not limited to:

DUI and DWAI Defense in Colorado

Driving under the influence (DUI) or while ability impaired (DWAI) charges can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension, heavy fines, and jail time. Our DUI attorneys challenge the validity of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and police procedures to build a robust defense.

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Under C.R.S. § 42-4-1301, operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more is prohibited.
• DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired): Even a BAC of 0.05% to 0.079% can lead to charges.
• Vehicular Assault or Homicide: Serious felonies if the driver’s intoxication resulted in injury or death.

Traffic Misdemeanors: Reckless driving, hit-and-run, and driving under suspension can also impose significant penalties.

Drug Offenses in Colorado

Colorado’s drug laws are complex, with varying penalties depending on the type and amount of controlled substances involved. Whether you are charged with possession, distribution, or manufacturing, our drug defense lawyers will fight to protect your rights and pursue alternatives such as diversion programs where applicable.

• Possession of a Controlled Substance (C.R.S. § 18-18-403.5): Charges vary depending on the type (schedule) of drug, quantity, and whether it’s a first-time or repeat offense.
• Drug Distribution (C.R.S. § 18-18-405): Selling or distributing illegal drugs often carries enhanced penalties, especially if it involves certain controlled substances like methamphetamine or heroin.
• Marijuana Offenses (C.R.S. § 18-18-406): Despite legalization, exceeding lawful possession limits or engaging in unlicensed sales can still yield criminal charges.

Assault and Violent Crimes in Colorado

Assault charges can stem from misunderstandings or self-defense situations. Our team carefully examines witness statements, surveillance footage, and other evidence to build a strong case for your defense. We also handle cases involving domestic violence allegations, which carry unique legal challenges and potential protective orders.

• Third-Degree Assault (C.R.S. § 18-3-204): Causing bodily injury to another person, typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor or a low-level felony in certain contexts.
• Second-Degree Assault (C.R.S. § 18-3-203): Involving serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon.
• Domestic Violence Enhancements (C.R.S. § 18-6-800.3): Applied to any underlying crime involving intimidation, control, or harm in an intimate relationship.

Theft and Property Crimes

Theft charges, ranging from shoplifting to grand larceny, can result in significant fines and prison sentences. We work diligently to minimize the impact of these charges and explore options like restitution agreements or reduced charges.

• Theft (C.R.S. § 18-4-401): Penalties depend on the value of stolen property and range from petty offenses to felonies.
• Burglary (C.R.S. § 18-4-202 to 18-4-204): Entering or remaining in a property unlawfully with the intent to commit another crime.
• Criminal Mischief (C.R.S. § 18-4-501): Damaging another person’s property knowingly or recklessly.

White-Collar Crimes

Baker Law Group represents clients accused of white-collar offenses such as embezzlement, fraud, and insider trading.

These cases often involve intricate financial records and regulatory scrutiny, requiring a detail-oriented and strategic approach to defense.

• Fraud and Forgery (C.R.S. § 18-5-102 et seq.): Includes check fraud, credit card fraud, and forging documents.
• Embezzlement and Financial Crimes: Misappropriating funds entrusted to you by an employer or client.
• Identity Theft (C.R.S. § 18-5-902): Using another person’s identifying information for gain or to harm them.

Juvenile Offenses

A criminal charge can be especially daunting for juveniles and their families. Our attorneys work to protect young clients from harsh penalties while focusing on rehabilitation and minimizing long-term consequences.

Expungements and Record Sealing

A criminal record can follow you for years, impacting your personal and professional life. In eligible cases, we help clients petition for expungements or sealing of criminal records to give them a fresh start.

Federal Crimes

Federal criminal charges often involve complex laws and substantial resources on the prosecution’s side. Baker Law Group is equipped to handle cases involving federal offenses, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Potential Penalties Under Colorado Law

Sentences for criminal convictions in Colorado range from minor fines to lengthy prison terms. The severity depends on:

1. Offense Classification
   • Misdemeanors vs. felonies
   • Petty offenses vs. Class 1 or 2 felonies
2. Aggravating Factors
   • Repeat offenses or high BAC for DUI
   • Use of a deadly weapon
   • Whether children were present in a domestic violence situation
3. Judicial Discretion
   • Judges weigh aggravating or mitigating factors, your criminal history, and any impact statements from victims or your community.
4. Specific Statutory Provisions
   • Colorado has mandatory sentencing schemes for certain crimes, such as vehicular homicide, kidnapping, or habitual offenders.

Common Criminal Sentences

• Fines: May range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, or higher in severe felony cases.
• Probation: Supervision in the community with conditions like treatment programs, community service, or periodic check-ins.
• County Jail or State Prison: The length of incarceration varies widely, from days or months for misdemeanors to years (or even life) for high-level felonies.
• Alternative Sentences: In some cases, judges may consider house arrest, drug court, or deferred judgment programs to encourage rehabilitation over punishment.

Having a criminal defense lawyer for Colorado residents trust allows you to present mitigating evidence, challenge questionable police procedures, and work toward leniency or charge reductions.

Defenses a Colorado Criminal Lawyer May Explore

The best defense strategy depends on the facts of each case and the charges involved. A seasoned Colorado criminal defense lawyer can employ various approaches, including:

1. Unlawful Search and Seizure
   • Under the Fourth Amendment, evidence obtained without probable cause or a valid warrant may be deemed inadmissible.
2. Mistaken Identity
   • Eyewitness errors or inaccurate police work can implicate innocent parties. Demonstrating an alibi or casting doubt on identification methods can be key.
3. Self-Defense or Defense of Others
   • In violent crime cases, showing you used force to protect yourself or a third party from imminent danger can lead to acquittal.
4. Entrapment
   • If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have, entrapment may be a valid defense.
5. Lack of Intent
   • Some offenses require proof of a specific mental state (e.g., “knowingly” or “intentionally”). If the prosecution can’t establish this element, a conviction should not stand.
6. Challenging Witness Credibility
   • Key witnesses may have motives to lie or recollections shaped by biases. Cross-examination can reveal these weaknesses.

A strong defense aims to ensure that every aspect of the prosecution’s case is critically examined so that any potential errors or doubts are brought to light.

Can I Appeal My Criminal Law Case

If you’ve been convicted of a crime in Colorado, you have the right to appeal the decision. A criminal appeal is a legal process where a higher court reviews the trial court’s proceedings to identify any legal errors that may have affected the verdict or sentence. Common grounds for appeal include procedural mistakes, incorrect application of the law, or insufficient evidence to support the conviction. It’s important to note that an appeal is not a retrial but a review of the existing record to ensure fairness and legal correctness. Navigating the appeals process requires a thorough understanding of complex legal principles and strict adherence to filing deadlines. Engaging an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney can significantly enhance your chances of a successful appeal by effectively identifying and arguing potential errors in your case.

Baker Law Group aims to provide diligent, client-focused defense for a diverse range of criminal charges. Our approach involves:

1. Thorough Investigations
   • We go beyond the information in police reports, gathering witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert opinions if necessary to build a complete picture.
2. Personalized Strategies
   • Every case is unique. A criminal lawyer Colorado defendants can trust tailors legal tactics to the specific facts, your objectives, and potential resolutions that align with your life goals.
3. Transparent Communication
   • Understanding your charges, possible outcomes, and the legal process helps reduce anxiety. We keep you updated at each step, explaining options and probable scenarios.
4. Skilled Negotiations
   • When pursuing a plea bargain or dismissal, we negotiate assertively with prosecutors. Our focus is on mitigating penalties, limiting or avoiding jail time, and finding rehabilitative alternatives where feasible.
5. Strong Courtroom Advocacy
   • If the case proceeds to trial, we tirelessly represent your interests—delivering persuasive opening and closing statements, cross-examining the state’s witnesses, and presenting a coherent defense narrative.
6. Long-Term Support
   • After your case concludes, we can assist in related matters like record sealing or navigating probation requirements, ensuring you have the resources for a stable future.

The Importance of a Strong Defense

Colorado criminal law encompasses a broad range of offenses, from minor infractions to serious felonies. The state enforces strict penalties for criminal convictions, including fines, probation, community service, and imprisonment. Additionally, a criminal record can have long-lasting effects on your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses.

Baker Law Group understands the high stakes involved in criminal cases. We provide comprehensive legal defense services tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. By thoroughly analyzing evidence, challenging procedural errors, and negotiating with prosecutors, we aim to safeguard your rights and future.

Selecting the Best Colorado Criminal Defense Lawyer

Choosing the best criminal lawyer in Colorado might hinge on factors like experience, case results, and approach to client service. While “best” is subjective, consider these guidelines:

1. Relevant Experience: Lawyers who routinely handle cases similar to yours (e.g., DUI, assault, drug crimes) possess valuable insights into local court practices.
2. Local Knowledge: Familiarity with the legal culture in your jurisdiction—such as Denver, Boulder, or Colorado Springs—can benefit you during plea negotiations or at trial.
3. Reputation for Honesty: Avoid lawyers who make unrealistic guarantees. Ethical attorneys offer candid evaluations and stand by you throughout the process.
4. Resource Network: Complex cases may require experts, investigators, or specialized testing. A well-connected attorney can leverage these resources more effectively.
5. Client-Focused Approach: Look for a lawyer who communicates clearly, respects confidentiality, and treats you with compassion.

Get a Criminal Defense Attorney Colorado You Can Trust

Every day, our criminal defense team stands ready to represent Colorado clients in cases that could determine whether they remain free or face serious consequences. 

When your liberties are threatened… Baker Law Group steps up with criminal defense attorneys Colorado residents trust to protect their freedom and fight for their rights. Contact our team today to set up a consultation.