Introduction: In re Gault, 387 U.S. 1 (1967)

The function of a criminal defense lawyer in juvenile criminal cases was addressed in the prominent Supreme Court ruling, In re Gault, 387 U.S. 1 (1967). This decision affirmed that every minor accused in a juvenile delinquency proceeding is entitled to legal representation. The Supreme Court determined that children have the right to a lawyer’s assistance whenever they face criminal charges in juvenile court.

Introduction To “Probable Cause” As A Concept

After 42 years of practicing Colorado criminal law – I am still surprised at how the phrase “I know my rights!” is, many times, untrue. One key right under the Colorado and United States constitutions, and one that every citizen should try to understand, is this: before law enforcement can deprive you of your freedom – before they can lawfully arrest you, that arrest must be based on “probable cause.”

Colorado Domestic Violence Cases And The Impact Of Recanting Alleged Victims

Colorado domestic violence criminal cases can have devastating consequences for those on both sides of the courtroom. In a very high percentage of these cases, the alleged victim (the victim) recants their statements to law enforcement. This article is focused on issues surrounding the “recanting”  where victims attempt to “take back” their statements or simply refuse to testify at trial.

Understanding The Colorado Heat Of Passion Defense: Definition And Legal Basis

The heat of passion “defense” is a legal defense strategy that seeks to mitigate the culpability of a person accused of certain Colorado crimes of violence. Unlike an affirmative defense, which is a complete defense to a conviction,  the heat of passion “defense” mitigates, reduces the statutory penalty for a conviction of the crime charged.

The Definition Of Deadly Weapons Under Colorado Law

Under Colorado law, the definition of what constitutes a “deadly weapon” is specific, nuanced, and complex.

Introduction To Colorado Felony Stalking 18-3-602

The crime of stalking, by its very nature, involves the repeated and unwanted attention by one person that causes fear or emotional distress in another – the alleged victim.

What IS The Crime Of Felony Menacing In Colorado?

Felony menacing in Colorado is a very serious criminal offense defined under Colorado state law as:

Introduction – The Sentencing Phase Of A Criminal Case Requires Thorough Preparation And Understanding The Judge’s Perspective

Understanding the significance of the sentencing hearing in the Colorado criminal justice system is essential to appreciating attorneys’ multiple and diverse roles in defending their clients. Sentencing hearings are a crucial stage in the legal process. They signal the change from – the heavily adversarial or “litigation stage” of a case – to the punishment stage.

Introduction – First – Why A Criminal Defense Lawyer Cannot Be A “True Investigator”

The Role Of A Criminal Defense Lawyer

Introduction: Understanding The Concept Of A “Knowing And Intelligent Plea” Of Guilty In Colorado

Those charged with a crime in Colorado have at a minimum three fundamental Constitutional rights: