Frisco Homicide Defense Lawyers
Are You in Need of a Homicide Defense Attorney in Frisco, CO?
Facing serious charges and searches is difficult and can feel like the whole world is crashing down around you. It might also seem like there's nowhere to turn. But you don't have to face this alone.
At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, our homicide defense attorneys in Frisco, Colorado, are here to listen to your story and defend your rights with the dedication and understanding you deserve.
Why Choose Us Over Other Frisco, CO, Homicide Defense Lawyers?
- Former prosecutors who know how to win: Kylie Whitaker and Ehren Penix both served as criminal prosecutors before becoming defense attorneys. We know how the state builds its case—and we know exactly how to dismantle it.
- Recognized legal talent: Kylie Whitaker was selected as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers based on peer recognition, professional achievement, and other factors.
- Decades of combined trial experience: Homicide cases are high-stakes, and trial experience matters. Our team has successfully handled serious felony cases, bringing in-depth knowledge of courtroom procedures, jury strategies, and expert witness cross-examination.
- Around-the-clock legal defense: The justice system doesn't wait, and neither do we. We take calls 24/7, ensuring our clients always have access to legal counsel when they need it most.
- Proven results, proven dedication: Our firm has achieved dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in cases where clients once thought all hope was lost. No matter the circumstances, we fight for the best possible outcome.
- Deep ties to the Frisco & Summit County community: We're not just lawyers—we're part of this community. We proudly support The Summit Foundation's Ski Medallion Program and believe in giving back to the people we serve.
Whitaker & Penix, LLC: Frisco, Colorado, Homicide Defense Law Firm
With Kylie Whitaker's seven years as a Breckenridge prosecutor and our inside knowledge of local courts, we know exactly how prosecutors think and build their cases.
Whitaker & Penix, LLC, Is Available 24/7—Call (970) 368-0602 to Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Law Firm
What To Do After a Homicide Arrest
If you’re scared and unsure what to do next, our experienced Frisco, CO, homicide defense attorneys have guided many people through this exact situation. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself right now.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Don't Speak Without a Lawyer Present
The police aren’t automatically on your side because you're innocent. Even a simple "I didn't mean to" can be twisted against you. If you want to protect yourself, keep quiet and get in contact with a lawyer first.
Avoid Talking About Your Case in Jail
The hard truth is that jail walls have ears. Those friendly conversations with your cellmate could end up in a prosecutor's file. The only person you can safely talk to is your lawyer.
Watch Those Phone Calls and Letters
Every jail phone call is recorded and every letter is read. Save the case details for private meetings with your attorney.
Contact Whitaker & Penix, LLC, for Help
Don't face this alone—we've helped others in your situation and we can help you, too. Call now for a free consultation. The sooner we get started, the more options we'll have to fight for your future.
How Is Homicide Categorized in Colorado?
Our Frisco criminal defense attorneys have helped many people who felt confused and scared when facing homicide charges. With former prosecutors in our law firm, we don’t just know how to defend cases—we know how the other side thinks.
- First-degree murder (Class 1 felony) is the most serious charge involving deliberate and premeditated killing.
- Second-degree murder (Class 2 felony) involves knowingly causing death but without premeditation.
- Manslaughter (Class 4 felony) occurs when death is caused recklessly or in the heat of passion.
- Vehicular homicide (Class 4 or Class 3 felony) occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle in a reckless manner or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, leading to the death of another person.
- Criminally negligent homicide (Class 5 felony) is when death results from criminal negligence.
- Felony murder is when a homicide occurs during the commission of another felony (arson, kidnapping, sex crime, or other).
What Are the Legal Penalties of a Homicide Conviction?
It’s crucial to remember that penalties vary dramatically based on the specific charges, and having the right defense strategy can make all the difference in your case's outcome.
First-Degree Murder
- Life in prison without the possibility of parole
- Up to $1 million in fines
- No possibility of an early release
Second-Degree Murder
- 16-48 years in prison
- 5 years mandatory parole
- Up to $1 million in fines
- Possible sentence enhancements for aggravating factors
Manslaughter
- 2-6 years in prison
- 3 years mandatory parole
- Up to $500,000 in fines
- Possibility of probation in some cases
Criminally Negligent Homicide
- 1-3 years in prison
- 2 years mandatory parole
- Up to $100,000 in fines
- Potential for alternative sentencing
Vehicular Homicide
- 2-12 years in prison
- 3 years mandatory parole
- Up to $750,000 in fines
- License revocation
Felony Murder
- Life in prison without parole
- Up to $1 million in fines
- No possibility of plea bargaining in most cases
Life Consequences
The impact goes way beyond prison and fines into your career, family life, and overall future. More specifically, a conviction means the following:
- Permanent criminal record that shows up on every background check
- Loss of professional licenses and career opportunities
- Restricted housing options
- Limited international travel
- Lost voting and gun ownership rights
- Strained family relationships and custody rights
Don't let these penalties become your reality. Our homicide defense lawyers can help you take control of the situation and reduce or avoid the penalties altogether.
The Legal Process for Frisco, CO, Homicide Cases
When you're facing homicide charges, understanding what comes next can help you feel more in control. Think of the legal process like climbing one of our local mountains—you need to know the path ahead and have an experienced guide by your side.
Investigation of Criminal Activity
Law enforcement gathers evidence at the crime scene, interviews witnesses, and collects forensic data. They may also review surveillance footage, collect DNA samples, and examine digital records. This process alone can take weeks or months.
Determining Probable Cause
Police compile their evidence to establish probable cause. That means they need enough evidence to believe you committed the crime. They present this information to the district attorney, who decides whether to file formal charges.
Arrest
Officers take you into custody, read your rights, and process you at the local jail. You'll be photographed and fingerprinted, and your personal belongings will be inventoried. During this time, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney.
Arraignment
This is your first court appearance where formal charges are read. You'll enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The judge explains your rights and potential penalties. This usually happens within 48-72 hours of arrest.
Bail
The judge determines if you can be released before trial and sets the bail amount based on flight risk, community ties, and the severity of your charges. They may also impose conditions like travel restrictions or electronic monitoring.
Preliminary Hearing
The prosecution must show enough evidence to justify moving forward with the case. They present key witnesses and evidence, while the defense can cross-examine. The judge decides if there's probable cause to proceed to trial.
Trial
Both sides present evidence, question witnesses, and make arguments to either a judge or jury. The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Trials can last days or weeks, depending on case complexity.
Sentencing
If found guilty, the judge determines punishment based on state guidelines, case circumstances, and any mitigating factors. They consider factors like criminal history, remorse shown, and impact on victims.
Outcome of Charges
The case concludes with either acquittal, conviction, or plea agreement. Each outcome has different implications for your future. An acquittal means charges are dismissed, while conviction leads to sentence implementation.
Appeals
If convicted, you have the right to appeal based on legal errors during trial. This involves reviewing trial records, filing legal briefs, and possibly new hearings. An appeal is not a new trial. Appeals can take months or years to resolve.
Do Not Wait Until an Arrest to Seek Legal Counsel
If you’re feeling the pressure of a potential homicide investigation, remember that every hour you wait could impact your future. We've seen how early legal intervention can dramatically change case outcomes.
Your rights aren’t fully protected by talking to investigators alone. That conversation you believe will clear your name could actually be building a case against you. Remember that law enforcement isn't on your side, even if it seems like they’re trying to help; they're trained to gather evidence to use against you later.
Calling Whitaker & Penix, LLC, at (970) 368-0602 for Immediate Legal Help
Possible Defenses to Homicide Charges
Every case is unique and requires a carefully crafted defense strategy. With our background as former prosecutors, we know exactly what to look for—and challenge—in the state's case against you. Here are possible defense strategies when facing homicide charges.
Lack of Probable Cause
If your arrest was based on flimsy evidence or unreliable witness statements, we'll scrutinize every detail of probable cause and fight to get charges dismissed if proper procedures weren't followed.
Police Misconduct
If your rights were violated during the investigation—such as illegal searches or coerced confessions—we'll expose any police misconduct that could undermine the prosecution's case.
Lack of Evidence
If the prosecution can’t prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, we can challenge weak forensic evidence, questionable witness testimony, and gaps in the prosecution's timeline.
Self-Defense
If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, we'll gather evidence to show your actions were justified under Colorado's self-defense laws.
Mistaken Identity
If you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator, we can challenge eyewitness reliability and examine alibi evidence to prove you weren't involved.
Mental State Defense
If your state of mind was impaired at the time of the incident, we'll explore whether mental illness or other factors affected your ability to form criminal intent.
Accident or Justification
If this was a tragic accident rather than a crime, we can help demonstrate how circumstances beyond your control led to unintended consequences.
How a Frisco, CO, Homicide Defense Lawyer Can Help
As trusted Frisco violent crime defense attorneys, we know you're up against skilled prosecutors and experienced investigators. But the good news is that our law firm brings insider knowledge from our years as prosecutors. We don't just defend cases—we know exactly how the other side builds them.
Immediate Investigation
When a client contacts us for help, we jump right into action. That’s because we know that those first hours are crucial. While the evidence is fresh and memories are clear, we'll launch our own investigation.
Strategic Defense Planning
We used to build these cases for the prosecution, so we’ll use that knowledge to take them apart.
Court Representation
From challenging evidence to cross-examining witnesses, we know how to fight in court. And when prosecutors try to pressure you with harsh deals, we push back harder.
Plea Bargaining
Our experience as former prosecutors gives us unique insight into negotiating better terms. We know when to push back, when to negotiate, and most importantly, when a deal isn't in your best interest.
Some of Our Client Testimonials
“Went Above and Beyond to Obtain the Best Outcome Possible” - Francesca Piazza (5-Star Google Review)
Kylie Whitaker is the absolute best attorney I've ever had the pleasure to be represented by. Immediately, I felt completely understood and put at ease that she was the perfect person to help me. She took the time to thoughtfully listen, understand my situation, and thoroughly explain all legal avenues to me. She also completely went to bat for me and, in my opinion, went above and beyond to obtain the best outcome possible. I would work with her and recommend her a million times over!
“Dutifully Prepared […] Calm, Matter-of-Fact Style” - Jay Blistan (5-Star Google Review)
Ehren was incredibly helpful during my meeting with him. He was incredibly buttoned up and came dutifully prepared for our discussion. His calm, matter-of-fact style was great and I'd recommend him to anyone.
Other Locations We Serve in Colorado
Talk to a Frisco, CO, Homicide Law Firm Today
Your freedom can not wait—and neither should your defense. Call our homicide defense attorneys at Whitaker & Penix, LLC, anytime at (970) 368-0602 to schedule a free case evaluation. Remember: every minute matters when you're facing serious charges, and we’re ready to start fighting for you right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Hire a Frisco, Colorado, Homicide Defense Attorney?
Hire an attorney as soon as possible. Investigators are already building their case against you. Without a lawyer, everything you say WILL be used against you, even if it seems innocent. If you want to protect yourself, get an attorney before saying a word.
What Should I Ask When Hiring an Attorney?
Ask if they can tell you about real cases they've handled right here in Colorado. Figure out if they're available 24/7. Also, pay attention to whether they actually listen to your story or just wait for their turn to talk about their accolades.
How Can a Homicide Defense Lawyer Help Me?
An experienced attorney might spot mistakes prosecutors don't even know they made.
Do I Need a Homicide Attorney if I Think I'm Guilty?
Even if you think you’re guilty, a homicide attorney is still recommended. What you think is guilt and what the law defines as guilt may be two very different things. There's so much more to it than just "guilty" or "not guilty." So, before you make any decisions that could affect the rest of your life, discuss your options with your lawyer.
Can I Go to Jail for Homicide in Colorado?
Jail is an option—and homicide charges are serious—but charges can change. Evidence can be challenged.