Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Westminster, CO

FAQs

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

  Dial 303-658-4360 to reach the dispatch office of the Westminster Police Department for non-emergency matters.

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

  You may call the Records Division at 303-658-4380 to determine whether the report is available for release. After confirmation of the document's availability, you may get a copy of a police report by either visiting the station in person or submitting a written request at the Westminster Police Department with the address at 9110 Yates St., Westminster, CO 80031, Attention: Records Section. In both scenarios, you must submit this search request form (available here: https://www.westminsterpdnews.com/docs/Records%20Search%20Request.pdf). You must complete the required information and pay the report cost. You must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope when submitting a written request.

• What happens if the police fail to recite the Miranda rights of the alleged offender upon criminal arrest in Westminster?

  If the police fail to recite your Miranda rights exclusively during an arrest or custodial interrogation, your statements may be suppressed and not admitted as evidence. As a suspect under arrest, knowing when to exercise your rights is critical to ensuring that your silence is not used against you in court. Saying "I want to talk with a lawyer" or "I want to keep quiet" is enough to invoke your Miranda rights.

• In Westminster, can a diabetic driver be arrested for DUI?

  Yes. Diabetes can lead to a DUI arrest in Westminster. This medical condition can increase the production of natural oral alcohol, resulting in a positive breathalyzer result. It can also show signs of nausea, blurred vision, sweet-smelling breath, flushed face, extreme sweating, slurred speech, impaired balance, and delayed reflexes that can indicate intoxication. If you are stopped for a DUI suspicion, present your diabetic medical information. Also, you must monitor and maintain your condition before driving to avoid arrest and traffic accidents.

• On what grounds might an offender seek alternative penalties in a DUI case in Westminster?

  If the Westminster court determines that lenient sanctions would be more beneficial to the DUI offender, it might impose alternative penalties. Alternative penalties can be granted if the following requirements are met: (1) no major injuries or property damage occurred as a result of the violation; (2) the defendant's criminal record is generally clean; (3) his blood alcohol level (BAC) was reasonably low. Some alternative penalties include probation, house arrest, alcohol treatment, management counseling, intermittent sentence, community service, and furlough.

• What types of crimes often occur during Halloween in Westminster?

  There is a significant increase in DUI arrests in Westminster among adults and minors during Halloween due to reckless and excessive partying. Vandalism, trespassing, and assault are among crimes that may arise as a result. Around this time of year, children's kidnappings are commonplace since most trick-or-treaters are young children who are less likely to recognize or avoid threats from strangers.

• What actions must you take to mitigate penalties or win against a DUI criminal charge in Westminster?

  If you want to ensure that your defense against DUI arrest in Westminster holds up, you should (a) retain a reliable and competent legal counsel without delay; (b) attend all court proceedings; (c) arrange a DMV hearing within seven days to avoid automatic driving privileges suspension; (d) do not drive if your license has been revoked, the prosecution will use this as evidence of additional traffic violations and prove your lack of remorse for the crime.

• 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.