Criminal defense attorneys play a critical role in the American criminal justice system, especially as the nation is amid an incarceration crisis. Securing an experienced criminal defense attorney in Denver is crucial to mounting a viable and successful defense if you have been accused, arrested, charged, or convicted of a criminal offense. The Denver criminal defense attorney at The Ferrell Law Firm, PLLC has a long history of representing those accused of crimes.
Attorney Mike Ferrell recognizes that criminal convictions can create short and long-term life challenges and barriers. As such, Attorney Ferrell prioritizes his clients and ensures they receive the strongest defense possible. If you have been charged with felony or misdemeanor criminal offenses in Denver, contact The Ferrell Law Firm at 720-687-2795 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Our firm represents Denver clients in an array of criminal matters, including the following:
These cases require the skills, resources, and experience of a zealous Denver criminal defense lawyer. The decisions you make about your charges from the outset can ripple and impact every aspect of your case and life. It is vital that you choose an attorney who can effectively represent you in your criminal case.
Consequences of Criminal Conviction in Denver
Colorado maintains sentencing guidelines that assist courts in imposing fines and sentences upon those convicted of criminal charges. Depending on the class and type of offense, a person convicted of a crime may face the following:
- Fines;
- Probation; or
- Incarceration in a local jail or the Colorado State Department of Corrections.
In addition to jail time and fines, criminal charges and convictions elicit an array of collateral consequences. An arrest can impact many aspects of your socioeconomic standing and result in the following:
- Lost employment opportunities;
- Familial strain;
- Custody disputes;
- Reputational damages; and
- Psychological distress.
If you are facing criminal charges, it is important that you contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Defenses to Criminal Charges
Several state and federal defenses are available to those accused of criminal offenses in Denver. The exact nature of a defense hinges on the unique facts and circumstances of the crime and the accused. However, timeliness is of the essence when it comes to investigating a case and strategizing a defense. Thus, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer in Denver if you are under investigation or arrested for a crime.
Accident
Most Colorado criminal charges require the government to prove that the accused had a culpable state of mind. This standard generally applies to crimes that require the accused to act with intent. However, some crimes only need the government to prove criminal negligence. Asserting the accident defense may be a viable strategy to prevent the prosecutor from establishing a required element of certain crimes.
Alibi
Alibis are used to establish that the accused was not at the crime scene. Alibis are effective ways to create reasonable doubt in the mind of the judge or jury.
Constitutional Violation
The U.S. Constitution provides fundamental rights and liberties to those accused of a criminal offense. Accordingly, your attorney can mount a defense if law enforcement, prosecutors, or any other relevant governmental entity violated those rights. Defenses can be based on violating your Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, or Eighth Amendment rights.
Duress
Duress is a complex defense but may be used if you were forced to commit a crime by another person who made a specific and imminent threat against you or a loved one. However, it must be noted that duress is not a valid defense for certain felony offenses.
Insanity
Under Colorado law, the insanity defense is available if you prove that, at the time of the incident, you could not distinguish right from wrong. Therefore a conviction is fundamentally unfair because you did not have a culpable state of mind. Unlike other defenses, the insanity defense must be asserted at arraignment. Further, a successful insanity defense does not mean that the accused is free to go. You might avoid incarceration, but the court may order you to get an evaluation or be committed to a mental hospital or facility.
Involuntary Act
Colorado law requires that crimes be the result of a voluntary act. Therefore, certain acts, such as those caused by another person or those that result from an unforeseeable medical condition, could relieve the actor of criminal liability.
Mistake
Mistaken fact or mistaken identity may be valid criminal defenses depending on the circumstances.
Self-Defense
Colorado law permits individuals to use physical force to defend themselves or others. However, a person can only use as much force as is reasonably necessary to stop the impending harm. However, the defense is not available if you did any of the following:
- Initiated the altercation;
- Consented to the use of force, such as when two people engage in a fight; or
- Provoked the altercation.
It is important to note that defense of property is available. However, it does not allow for using physical force unless done to prevent arson.
In addition to these defenses, your attorney can help you determine whether any other defense is available. An experienced attorney can help you secure a not-guilty verdict or have your charges dropped or dismissed.
Speak with a Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Case Today
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Denver, it is imperative that you work with an experienced lawyer who knows what it takes to secure the best possible result in your case. The Ferrell Law Firm, PLLC, is one of the most well-respected criminal defense law firms in Denver and has a track record of success based on hundreds of cases. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Michael Ferrell understands how the government handles criminal cases, what gives prosecutors pause about proceeding with a case, and where to find potential weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case. To learn more, give The Ferrell Law Firm, PLLC, a call at 720-687-2795. You can also reach us through our online contact form.