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Breckenridge Drug Crime Defense Attorneys

Are You in Need of a Summit County Drug Crime Defense Lawyer?

If you’ve been arrested or accused of a drug-related offense, you need an attorney who understands the local court system and the laws governing controlled substances in Colorado. Drug charges can range from simple possession of marijuana to felony distribution of narcotics and each requires a tailored defense strategy.

You should contact a defense attorney immediately if:

You were arrested for possession or distribution of illegal drugs or prescription medication.
Police searched your vehicle, home, or belongings.
You’re being investigated but haven’t yet been charged.
You’ve been offered a plea deal or diversion program and don’t understand your options.

Our legal team at Whitaker & Penix, LLC takes the time to review your situation in detail, explain your rights, and identify any errors or constitutional violations that may have occurred. The sooner you call, the sooner we can begin protecting your future.

Why Choose Us Over Other Drug Crime Defense Attorneys in Summit County?

Drug crime charges can be intimidating and life-changing. Whether you’re accused of possession, distribution, or manufacturing, the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years, impacting your freedom, employment, housing, and reputation.

Choosing the right defense attorney can make the difference between a conviction and a clean record. At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, we combine our experience as former prosecutors with our reputation for personal and responsive representation. There’s a lot of reasons why people trust our law firm to protect their freedom.

A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau: Our firm holds the highest BBB rating, reflecting our honesty, professionalism, and strong client relationships throughout Summit County and the surrounding region.
BBB Accredited for Consistent Client Satisfaction: We have earned BBB accreditation for maintaining exceptional service standards, clear communication, and a proven record of results.
Kylie Whitaker Recognized as a Colorado Rising Star by Super Lawyers: Attorney Kylie Whitaker’s selection to Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars list recognizes her professional achievement, courtroom skill, and commitment to excellence.
Former Prosecutors with Trial-Tested Experience: Both attorneys at our firm previously served as prosecutors, giving them a valuable perspective on how the state prepares and prosecutes drug crime cases.
Known for Clear Communication and Responsiveness: Our clients appreciate that we are accessible, dependable, and responsive. You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case.
Deep Knowledge of the Summit County Legal System: As local attorneys familiar with Breckenridge courts and the 6th Judicial District, we understand the people, processes, and dynamics that shape local cases.

Call for a Free Consultation Today

A drug charge does not have to define your life. With the right defense strategy, you can protect your record, your rights, and your future opportunities.

Call (970) 368-0602 to speak with one of our Breckenridge drug crime defense attorneys. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate your case, and help you take back control of your future.

How a Lawyer Can Help

A skilled defense attorney does far more than argue in court. At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, we guide clients through every stage of the legal process, from investigation through resolution.

Here’s how we can help you:

Thorough Case Investigation: We analyze police reports, search warrants, lab results, and witness statements to uncover inconsistencies or procedural errors.
Constitutional Defense: If your rights were violated through an illegal search, seizure, or arrest, we will file motions to suppress the evidence and seek dismissal of the charges.
Negotiation and Plea Advocacy: As former prosecutors, we know how the state negotiates and when to push for better terms. We can often secure reduced penalties or diversion opportunities.
Trial Preparation and Representation: If your case proceeds to trial, we prepare aggressively by developing a defense theory, cross-examining witnesses, and challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every turn.
Personalized Support and Guidance: We keep you informed, answer your questions clearly, and help you make knowledgeable decisions about your case and your future.

Types of Drug Crime Cases We Handle

Drug-related charges in Colorado can vary widely, from minor possession offenses to serious felony trafficking cases. At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, we defend clients against these types of drug charges:

Possession of controlled substances (including Schedule I and II drugs)
Possession with intent to distribute
Drug trafficking and distribution
Prescription drug fraud or unlawful possession
Marijuana possession or cultivation violations
Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl cases
Drug paraphernalia possession or sale
Manufacturing or processing controlled substances
Drug-related probation violations
Juvenile drug offenses

Penalties for Possession and Distribution in Colorado

Colorado’s drug laws categorize offenses by the type and amount of the substance involved. Even a small amount of a controlled substance can lead to serious penalties, depending on the circumstances.

Possession

Possession penalties vary depending on the drug’s classification:

Schedule I and II drugs (such as cocaine, heroin, LSD, and methamphetamine) carry the harshest penalties.
Possession of a controlled substance under 4 grams may be charged as a misdemeanor, but amounts over that threshold often become felonies.
Prescription drug possession without authorization can also lead to criminal charges.

Potential consequences include:

Jail or prison time
Fines
Mandatory probation or treatment
Driver’s license suspension
Permanent criminal record

Distribution or Intent to Distribute

Charges become more severe when the prosecution alleges that you intended to distribute or sell controlled substances. Factors that may lead to distribution charges include:

Large quantities of drugs
Scales, packaging, or paraphernalia
Large sums of cash
Text messages or communications suggesting drug sales

Penalties for drug distribution convictions can include prison sentences up to 32 years, significant fines, and loss of civil rights.

Charged with a Drug Crime in Summit County?

Call (970) 368-0602 today to speak with a former prosecutor who knows how to protect your rights.

At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, we combine the insight of former prosecutors with the dedication of local attorneys who know the courts, the judges, and the people of Summit County. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor who’s found yourself facing charges, we’re here to help.

Diversion Programs for Drug Offenses

Colorado recognizes that addiction and criminal behavior often go hand in hand. As a result, the state offers diversion programs designed to help nonviolent offenders address substance abuse while avoiding the lifelong consequences of a criminal conviction.

Diversion allows eligible defendants to complete treatment, education, or community service requirements in exchange for case dismissal upon successful completion. Requirements vary by jurisdiction but may include:

Substance abuse evaluation and treatment
Drug testing
Counseling or group therapy
Community service
Probation or supervision

Our Breckenridge criminal defense attorneys help determine your eligibility and guide you through the process of entering and completing a diversion program. We also work to ensure that your rights are protected throughout, because negotiations for these programs must be handled carefully.

Effective Legal Defenses Against Drug Charges

Every drug case is unique, but successful defenses often rely on exposing weaknesses in how the case was investigated or prosecuted. At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, we build defenses tailored to your circumstances and aggressively challenge the state’s evidence.

Unlawful Search and Seizure

If police searched your vehicle, home, or belongings without a valid warrant or probable cause, the evidence they found may be inadmissible in court.

Lack of Possession or Control

The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed or controlled the drugs. If you were unaware of their presence or they belonged to someone else, we will present evidence to demonstrate your lack of knowledge or ownership.

Entrapment

If law enforcement induced or coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.

Chain of Custody Errors

Mishandling of evidence, testing errors, or incomplete documentation can undermine the prosecution’s case. We scrutinize every piece of evidence for inconsistencies.

Invalid Search Warrants or Police Misconduct

If officers failed to follow proper procedures or violated your constitutional rights, we will move to have the evidence excluded or the charges dismissed.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

Professional, direct, and hard working - Logan Blazer (5-Star Google Review)

Fantastic experience working with Kylie! She was professional, direct, and hard working. The several months that my case took were very stressful, but she made me feel like someone had my back the whole time, and she got me the best possible outcome. I would not hesitate to send my best friends to her of they were in need of representation.

Great character and professionalism! -Evan Pryor (5-Star Google Review)

Ehren was great to work with from beginning to end. Very thorough with expectations, high attention to detail, as well as great character and professionalism!

Drug Crime Defense FAQs

What should I do if I’m arrested for a drug crime in Colorado?

Stay calm, be respectful, and do not say anything to law enforcement until you have an attorney present. Politely inform the officers that you are invoking your right to remain silent and want to speak with a lawyer. Then, call Whitaker & Penix, LLC at (970) 368-0602 immediately for a free consultation so we can protect your rights from the start.

What types of drug cases do you handle?

We represent clients facing all types of drug-related charges, including possession, distribution, manufacturing, trafficking, and prescription drug offenses. Whether you were charged with a small amount of marijuana or accused of a more serious felony, we have the experience to guide you through the legal process and fight for the best outcome.

What if I’m accused of distributing or selling drugs?

Distribution charges are more serious than possession and can lead to significant prison time and fines. Prosecutors may rely on circumstantial evidence such as text messages, cash, or packaging materials. We carefully examine every piece of evidence to challenge assumptions and weaken the state’s case.

Can police search my vehicle or home without a warrant?

Police must have probable cause or your consent to conduct most searches. If a search was done without proper legal justification, any evidence obtained may be thrown out in court. We analyze the details of your arrest to determine if your Fourth Amendment rights were violated and move to suppress illegally obtained evidence.

Can I go to jail for having prescription drugs without a prescription?

Yes. Possessing prescription medication without a valid prescription can result in criminal charges similar to illegal drug possession. This includes painkillers, stimulants, and anti-anxiety medications. However, these cases often have defenses, such as misunderstanding or lack of intent. We’ll help you present the full context to the court.

What are the long-term consequences of a drug conviction?

A drug conviction can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, or qualify for student loans. It may also lead to driver’s license suspension and damage your personal reputation. We work hard to minimize or prevent a criminal record through negotiation, plea agreements, or trial defense.

Other Locations We Serve

Meet Our Attorneys

Kylie Whitaker

Kylie Whitaker is a founding attorney at Whitaker & Penix, LLC, where she represents clients in criminal defense and personal injury matters throughout Summit County, Lake County, and the surrounding Colorado mountain communities.

With over a decade of courtroom experience, including seven years as a criminal prosecutor, Kylie brings both strength and strategic insight to every case she handles. That background gives her an invaluable understanding of how prosecutors build cases, and how to effectively challenge them. Today, she uses that knowledge to defend clients with skill, preparation, and an unwavering focus on achieving fair and just results.

Kylie is known for her honesty, accessibility, and practical legal advice. Whether she’s in the courtroom or at the negotiating table, Kylie’s blend of trial experience and empathy helps her clients feel confident and supported through every step of the legal process.

Ehren Penix

Ehren Penix is a founding attorney at Whitaker & Penix, LLC, where he represents clients throughout Summit County, Lake County, and the surrounding mountain communities in both criminal defense and personal injury matters. Known for his approachable style, strong courtroom advocacy, and dedication to client service, Ehren provides steady, reliable guidance during some of life’s most challenging moments.

Before co-founding the firm, Ehren served as a criminal prosecutor, gaining invaluable experience handling a wide range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. His time as a prosecutor taught him how cases are investigated, charged, and tried, giving him a strategic advantage when defending clients today. He understands the tactics the state uses and knows how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to protect his clients’ rights.