Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Arvada, CO

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Arvada, Colorado?

  You can contact 720-898-6900 or 303-980-7300 for non-emergency situations in Arvada, Colorado.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Arvada, Colorado?

  In Arvada, Colorado, you can obtain a copy of the police report for incidents relating to your case in person or by mail. To submit a request, download and fill out the Records Request Form, which can be accessed at arvada.org. You can submit the form in person or mail it to Records, City of Arvada, 8101 Ralston Rd., Arvada, CO 80002.

• What is the statute of limitations for crimes in Arvada?

  In Arvada, the statute of limitations for felonies is three years and 18 months for misdemeanors. Manslaughter has a three-year statute of limitations, whereas hit-and-run involving death has a five-year statute of limitations. Murder, attempted murder, and child sex offenses have no time restriction. It is best to consult an Arvada criminal defense attorney if you are dealing with these kinds of cases.

• What does an Arvada criminal defense lawyer do?

  An Arvada criminal defense attorney defend the rights of persons accused of crimes, such as assault, domestic violence, DUI, drug possession, and weapons charges.  Criminal defense attorneys fight for their clients' best interests. They seek to create individually tailored defenses to assist defendants in obtaining case dismissal or a reduced sentence. Competent attorneys can assess critical evidence, cross-examine the arresting officer, and aggressively defend clients in court.

• Do Arvada criminal defense lawyers investigate their clients?

  Arvada criminal defense lawyers utilize private investigators to investigate possible suspects, check testimony, and find and interview witnesses. Some private investigators focus on particular types of investigations, such as legal investigations, business and financial investigations, personal investigations, or background checks. Although attorneys are not compelled to screen their clients, the American Bar Association suggests that lawyers take voluntary efforts to guarantee that they are not receiving illicit proceeds.

• How do you decide whom to hire when choosing a criminal defense attorney in Arvada?

  Essentially, when choosing Arvada criminal defense lawyers, you should look into how they have been practicing criminal law, the number of criminal defense cases they have won, their certificates, and their accolades. Consider attorneys who are active members of bar associations and professional organizations. In most cases, you may schedule an initial consultation to meet the client and ask questions regarding your case.

• What are some of the things Arvada criminal defense lawyers should not do?

  Arvada criminal defense attorneys should not purposefully misrepresent facts or mislead the court. They should prevent unnecessary delays in case disposition. They should disclose to the tribunal legal authority in the governing jurisdiction known to defense counsel to be directly opposed to the accused's position but not provided by the prosecutor. In general, they are not permitted to conduct anything that could result in a breach of professional duties.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.