Larimer County Criminal Defense Lawyer

For many people, the weight of a criminal charge can be overwhelming. This feeling is understandable, as criminal charges can come with serious consequences. A conviction can bring with it jail time and fines, among other penalties. For serious offenses, an arrest alone can lead to significant damage to a person’s reputation. An experienced defense attorney can help the accused avoid that damage.

If you are facing criminal charges in Larimer County, you are entitled to a vigorous defense. With the help of the Colorado Lawyer Team, you could have the charges against you reduced or even dismissed. Protect your legal rights by speaking to a Larimer County criminal defense lawyer right away.

Felonies and Misdemeanors Offenses

A criminal prosecution is a form of court proceeding that pits the government against an individual. These proceedings are based on the idea that certain actions are an offense against society as a whole. A criminal prosecution serves as the consequence for that offense.

There are two basic forms of criminal charges including, felonies and misdemeanors. Felony offenses typically carry much more severe penalties. Felonies typically have a potential prison term of at least one year. If convicted, any incarceration is served in a state facility as opposed to county jail. Felonies also carry certain collateral consequences that do not come with misdemeanors. A conviction for a felony could result in the loss of a person’s voting or firearm rights, among other things.

Misdemeanors are usually less serious than felony charges. That does not mean a person convicted of a misdemeanor will not face serious penalties. In Larimer County, a misdemeanor could carry as much as 18 months behind bars in county jail. There are three different classes of misdemeanor, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying the steepest penalties and Class 3 misdemeanors carrying the lightest.

A person charged with a crime should take that offense seriously, whether it is a misdemeanor or felony offense. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction for either type of offense could result in lengthy incarceration. An experienced criminal defense attorney could advise a Larimer County resident on the potential penalties they face as well as the defense options that might work best in their situation.

Common Criminal Offenses

There are many different types of criminal charges under state law. These offenses range in severity from public intoxication to murder. No matter the specific charge a Larimer County resident might face, the guidance of a criminal defense attorney could be helpful.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes like assault or murder carry some of the heaviest penalties. While some assault offenses are treated as misdemeanors, any violent crime that results in serious bodily injury or death is likely to result in felony charges.

Drug Crimes

Offenses related to the possession, sale, or manufacture of controlled substances can also carry serious consequences. Often, these cases turn on whether or not the state violated the accused’s rights during their arrest.

Driving Under The Influence

The most common reason for an arrest under state law is for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These arrests are common, but a conviction is never guaranteed.

Theft

A theft offense is either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the item allegedly stolen. In addition to jail time and fines, a conviction could also require restitution.

Discuss Your Case with a Larimer County Criminal Defense Attorney

The guidance of skilled legal counsel could be invaluable no matter what crime you are accused of committing. A seasoned defense attorney could help you build a case against the charges.

Place your defense in the experienced hands of a professional. Call a Larimer County criminal defense lawyer right away.