Criminal Defense

Experienced Legal Defense for Criminal Charges in Colorado

Being accused of a crime can be confusing and extremely stressful. The prosecution has incredible resources to bring against you in an attempt to convict you and perhaps put you in jail or prison. In choosing an attorney it is essential that you hire someone who knows the criminal justice system and can thoroughly evaluate your case and get you the best resolution.

If you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor, you may feel intimidated, embarrassed, stressed, and uncertain about how this charge will impact your future. It is essential that you retain an experienced Durango criminal defense attorney to mount a zealous defense on your behalf. The attorneys at Greenberg, McGuinness & Alt, are highly experienced in the area of criminal defense. We believe that the best results are obtained when the attorney is prepared to take the case to trial. Preparing a case for trial allows the attorney to negotiate from a position of strength and insist on a favorable resolution for the client. The crimes we defend include charges for assault, DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, homicide, minor in possession or consumption of alcohol, and sex crimes. We serve clients in Colorado cities ranging from Durango, Pagosa Springs, Cortez, Ignacio, Silverton and Telluride.

Felonies and Misdemeanors

Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors, and they carry more significant penalties. If you are convicted of a felony in Colorado, you could be sentenced to at least one year in prison. You will be stripped of certain rights, such as the right to own a gun, and you will have to disclose the conviction to prospective employers if asked on an application. Misdemeanors carry comparatively light penalties, but these can still limit your employment options and lead to jail sentences. Crimes classified as misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, simple assault, shoplifting and trespass.

Every criminal case is unique and we will take whatever time is needed to be sure that we have fully:

• Discussed the facts of your case, including your explanation and what is contained in the police reports
• Made sure you understand the charges and penalties you face and your rights
• Evaluated your personal circumstances, so that we can better obtain a resolution that works for you
• Identified legal issues and possible defenses
• Discussed how we are going to prepare your case so that it is ready when we go to court
• Conducted any necessary investigation, including witness interviews and review of physical evidence
• Reviewed the case for possible motions and discussed the advantages and disadvantages of these
• Discussed the merits of possible plea bargains
• Discussed factors that may help us limit the sentence should you be convicted

Although marijuana has been legalized in Colorado, charges for drug crimes are common. These crimes include possession or possession with intent to sell or distribute, manufacturing, or distribution. Illegal substances include imitation and or controlled substances such as ecstasy, acid, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, steroids, inhalants, spice and prescription drugs like Vicodin that were not legally prescribed. If you are convicted of trafficking, distributing, or possessing illegal substances, you can receive heavy fines and extended jail time. DUIs resulting from alcohol abuse are also common. A first-offense DUI is punishable with up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. The penalties increase with repeat offenses. For second and subsequent offenses, you can be jailed for up to two years, fined up to $1,500, and have your license revoked for two years. Aggravating factors in DUIs that can make the charges and penalties harsher include driving without a valid license, failing to carry insurance, causing serious bodily injury or death, having a very high blood alcohol content, or having children in the car while drunk driving. Your criminal history will also be taken into account.

In a competitive job market, it is particularly important not to have a criminal record. If you are arrested or charged, even if you are not convicted, your criminal record will contain details about your case. Clearing your criminal history can make a difference because it offers a fresh start. However, not every case is eligible to be sealed or expunged. The cases that are eligible typically include those in which there was an arrest with no charges filed, where charges were dropped, or where someone is found not guilty.

Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney in Durango

If you are accused of a crime, you should consult an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. Sometimes a criminal charge can have an impact on a family law matter. For example, domestic violence is not a specific crime, but it can enhance penalties for other crimes and in turn have an impact on a child custody case. When you are dealing with such complicated situations, an experienced attorney can mount the strongest possible legal case on your behalf. Contact the Durango criminal defense lawyers of Greenberg, McGuinness & Alt. Our office serves La Plata County, Archuleta County, Southern Ute Tribal Court and Montezuma County, among other Colorado areas. Call us at (970) 259-4422 or fill out our online form to set up a initial consultation.