When you have drugs in a motor vehicle, police officers might arrest you if they conduct a traffic stop. The person who owns the vehicle or driving it usually has responsibility for what police officers find in the vehicle. Many people assume that if what they have in...
Criminal Defense
How police officers determine marijuana impairment while driving
Marijuana was legalized in Colorado in 2012. Now, it is legal for people to be under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or both. However, performing certain activities while under the influence of drugs or alcohol will remain illegal. If people are found to be under...
Searches and the Fourth Amendment
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides some of the most powerful protections for people who have been accused of crimes. It also provides some or the most important limitations we have on the behavior of the police. Most critically, the Fourth...
What jobs are off-limits to convicted felons?
Sometimes good people in Colorado who work hard and care for their families make a one-time mistake, and wind up facing a judge in criminal court. In some cases, these lapses in judgment can lead to a felony conviction. A felony conviction can mean time spent in...
Are mushrooms now legal in Denver?
Denver made national news by de-emphasizing possession of psilocybin mushrooms. The city announced in April they would no longer target mushroom users for prosecution. But what does this mean, really? The legal status The city has instructed law enforcement not to...
Criminal charge filed against teacher accused of child abuse
Feb. 1, the day started out like any other day at Angevine Middle School. The pledge of allegiance was recited over the intercom system, and students were allowed to sit or stand during it -- according to school policy. However, word of a teacher allegedly forcing one...
Colorado criminal defense: Probation Q and A
Following a criminal conviction, or the entry of a guilty plea, it is possible for one to receive a probation sentence rather than some form of incarceration. Colorado only considers probation in certain types of criminal defense cases. This week, this column will...
A criminal conviction could cost PO worker his job
A Colorado Springs post office worker has been placed on leave, following accusations that he has been stealing mail. Several residents complained of missing mail for a few months, and an investigation into the matter led authorities to this one employee. A criminal...
Sometimes pleading guilty is the best criminal defense
When charged with a crime, it can be difficult to know the best way to fight it. There are often various defense options at one's disposal -- which will all have their negative and positive points. In some cases, there are those Colorado residents who may find...
How does plea negotiation work?
Sometimes, fighting for criminal charges to be dismissed may not be in one's best interests. Plea negotiation may actually be the way to go. Colorado residents who stand accused of crimes will have to make the decision for themselves, but to do so, it is important to...