Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Highlands Ranch, CO

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Douglas County Sheriff - Highlands Ranch Substation is 303-660-7505.

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

  You can request a copy of an auto accident report online at https://www.msbpay.com/DouglasCountyCitationsReports/. You can also visit the Highlands Ranch Substation or the Douglas County Justice Center in person to inquire and make a records request.

• What are examples of violations of a person's constitutional rights in Highlands Ranch?

  In Highlands Ranch, some examples of violations of a person's constitutional rights include questioning an individual accused of a crime without their attorney present, entering and searching someone's property without a warrant, and using bribes and intimidation to solve a case. A criminal defense attorney can protect an individual's rights and advise them on whether it is in their best interest to speak with law enforcement officials.

• In Highlands Ranch, could autism be used in criminal defense cases?

  Depending on the specific facts of the case, autism might serve as part of the defense of an individual accused of a crime in Highlands Ranch. Autism will not automatically exempt someone from a crime, but the court will still consider it when making a decision. For autism to be a successful defense, there needs to be evidence that the person did not understand the wrongfulness of their actions.

• What are the common types of weapons offenses in Highlands Ranch?

  Highlands Ranch follows the state of Colorado's laws on weapons offenses. Examples of weapons offenses include possession of a pistol at the airport, displaying a weapon with the intent of placing another person in fear of death or injury, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of a weapon by a previous offender.

• Which types of crimes are classified as white-collar crimes in Highlands Ranch?

  White-collar crimes are characterized by the Federal Bureau of Investigations as concealment, deceit, or violation of trust. The most common types of white-collar crimes in Highlands Ranch and throughout Colorado include mortgage fraud, disaster relief fraud, money laundering, tax evasion, and criminal impersonation. Other examples of white-collar crimes include bribery, forgery, and embezzlement.

• What are the penalties for felonies in Highlands Ranch?

  The most serious criminal charges in Highlands Ranch and throughout Colorado are felonies. It can result in incarceration in state prison for the individual accused of the crime. There are six different classifications of felonies; a class 6 felony is punishable by fines of $1,000 to $10,000 and 12 to 18 months in prison, while a class 1 felony is punishable by life in prison or the death penalty.

• 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.