Criminal Defense Articles
Effective Legal Defenses for Domestic Abuse
Charges of domestic violence can have a devastating impact on your life. Even if the police have serious doubts about the accuser’s story, they will almost always arrest a person who has been accused of domestic violence. After the arrest, you will be subjected to a protection order that may prevent you from returning to your home.
Police and prosecutors aggressively pursue cases of domestic violence. But these charges are often illegitimate. Sometimes people misuse the legal system because they want to get revenge against a former spouse or partner.
I’m Pleading Guilty–Still Need a Lawyer?
Many people planning to plead guilty to the charges against them wonder if it is necessary to have a lawyer. No matter the circumstances of your case, the advice and legal guidance of a Breckenridge criminal defense attorney are vital. Before engaging the police in any communication or signing a plea agreement, you need to talk to an attorney first. Read on to find out why.
Do Multiple DUIs Make a Difference in Colorado?
Driving under the influence is a serious crime in Colorado. Some people believe that you are only legally drunk if your BAC is 0.08 percent and above or can only be drunk if you are stumbling around on the road. The truth is that there is no bright line definition of what is considered to be drunk and this is why many people are arrested for DUI even though they are not acting drunk.
What to Do After a Domestic Violence Arrest
Domestic abuse is a serious offense in Colorado. Even if you are only charged with a misdemeanor, you may be facing stiff fines, community service, counseling, anger management and domestic violence classes, and up to 24 months in jail.
Colorado is a mandatory arrest state, so if the police are called for a domestic dispute, they are required to separate the couple and least one person is going to jail. If you are arrested for domestic violence, you will have to spend at least one night and jail and you will probably be prevented from returning home for at least seven days.
The FBI Has Colorado on Its Radar for Internet Crimes
Internet crimes are on the rise in Colorado and across the nation. The CBI and FBI are focused on identifying, arresting, and charging any individual engaging in cybercrime. An FBI report reveals that in 2020, the total number of complaints increased to 791,790, almost 350,000 more than the prior year, leading to $4.2 billion in losses – about 2,000 complaints every day. 2020 was the worst year on record for internet crimes, many of which originated in Colorado. FBI agents on the cybercrime task force are hard at work in the state – and ready to arrest and charge any person they believe is committing internet crimes.
When Is Theft a Felony in Colorado?
Theft is a felony in Colorado when the amount stolen exceeds $2,000. There are multiple felony classes—which class you are charged with depends, among other things, on how much was taken. For example, a Class 6 felony is for thefts of $2,000 to $5,000, while a Class 2 felony is for thefts of over $1,000,000.
Parental Rights During a Juvenile Arrest in Colorado
Nothing is more nerve-racking than being called to a police station because your child was arrested. This can be especially distressing if you are on vacation here in Breckenridge and were hoping for a relaxing break. Whatever the situation may be, your first thought is to get your child home and safe before you start dealing with the legal ramifications of an arrest. Our team of criminal defense lawyers at Whitaker & Penix, LLC understands that you are going through a difficult time and are prepared to explain your legal rights as a parent when your child is arrested.
Standing Up for Out-of-State Defendants
Breckenridge is one of Colorado’s most popular cities, inviting millions of travelers around the year to enjoy lively ski resorts, gorgeous hiking trails through the Rocky Mountains, and to discover its great historical heritage. With so many travelers visiting our area, there is bound to be an increase in crime as our police force can be stretched thin. For visitors, a sudden arrest can not only dampen your entire vacation, but have life-long consequences. Beating these charges requires an in-depth understanding of the Colorado criminal justice system, as well as the aid of an experienced Breckenridge criminal defense lawyer.