Question 1

What should I do if I'm arrested in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

If arrested in Colorado, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not answer questions, make statements, or consent to searches without legal counsel present. You have the right to a phone call—use it to contact a criminal defense attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Our attorneys are available 24/7 for emergency consultations.

Question 2

What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

In Colorado, felonies are serious crimes carrying potential prison sentences of 1 year or more in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses with maximum sentences of up to 364 days in county jail. Colorado classifies felonies into 6 classes (Class 1 being the most serious) and misdemeanors into 2 classes (since a 2022 reform eliminated the third class). Both create permanent criminal records that can affect employment, housing, and gun rights.

Question 3

Can criminal charges be dropped or dismissed in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Yes, charges can be dropped or dismissed for several reasons: insufficient evidence, constitutional violations (illegal search and seizure, Miranda rights violations), witness credibility issues, successful pre-trial motions, or participation in diversion programs. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate every case to identify grounds for dismissal before considering plea negotiations.

Question 4

How long does a criminal case take in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Colorado criminal case timelines vary significantly. Misdemeanors typically resolve in 2-6 months, while felonies can take 6-18 months or longer. Factors affecting timeline include case complexity, court schedules, evidence analysis, plea negotiations, and whether the case goes to trial. Your statutory right to a speedy trial means the prosecution must bring you to trial within 6 months of your not-guilty plea, or the charges must be dismissed; some delays, such as continuances the defense requests, do not count toward that period (C.R.S. § 18-1-405).

Question 5

Will a criminal conviction affect my immigration status?

Accepted Answer

Yes, criminal convictions can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of naturalization, and inadmissibility. Even misdemeanor convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude, drug offenses, or domestic violence can trigger removal proceedings. If you're a non-citizen facing criminal charges, it's critical to work with an attorney who understands both criminal defense and immigration law implications.

Question 6

What is Colorado's Make My Day law?

Accepted Answer

Colorado's 'Make My Day' law (C.R.S. 18-1-704.5) provides legal immunity when you use force, including deadly force, against an intruder who has unlawfully entered your dwelling and you reasonably believe the intruder might commit a crime and use physical force against an occupant. This law applies only to occupied dwellings, not businesses or vehicles. Understanding when self-defense laws apply requires experienced legal counsel.

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