People are charged with crimes every day, under countless circumstances. Whether you face a charge for a first offense that poses unexpected penalties, for driving under the influence (DUI) that stems from a substance-abuse problem, or for a repeat offense that threatens imprisonment, you do not want it to become a conviction on your record.

Regardless of the circumstances, the job of a criminal defense attorney is to help you get the best possible deal. If you have been charged with a crime, a Loveland misdeamenor lawyer could help put you back on the path to a normal life and reduce the legal impact on you, your reputation, and your livelihood. Jenn and Justie at Colorado Lawyer Team will work hard to help you get your sentence reduced, charges dropped, or get a favorable verdict at trial.

Cases in Municipal Court

While many criminal trials require a jury and a court-appointed lawyer for any defendant who wants one, these requirements do not apply to cases in Loveland Municipal Court. The Municipal Court addresses traffic offenses such as speeding or careless driving and misdemeanor violations of the Loveland Municipal Code, including theft or trespassing. Code violations heard by the court include those for which either a pink ticket including a summons and complaint or a white ticket, is issued. When a blue ticket is issued, the relevant court is the Larimer County Court.

Misdemeanors and Petty Offenses in Loveland

Jurisdiction over criminal cases in Larimer County Court extends to traffic, infraction, and misdemeanor cases. Colorado has established a simplified set of procedures, per Colorado Revised Statutes  §16-2, for the prosecution of misdemeanors and petty offenses in county court. Procedural steps may include:

  • The issuing of a summons and complaint
  • Service of the summons on the defendant
  • Appearance of the defendant before a judge in response to the summons or after arrest
  • Possible admission of the defendant to bail or pretrial release
  • A trial in county court
  • Possible appeal of the county court judgment to a county district court

In the State of Colorado, misdemeanors may be punished by up to 18 months of confinement in a county or local jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. Someone concerned with how a potential misdemeanor conviction could end up disrupting their life could benefit significantly from speaking with a Loveland misdemeanor attorney.

Defending a Case

In Colorado, defendants may be represented by a public defender employed by the state, opt for independent (“pro se”) self-representation, or hire a lawyer of their choice from a private firm. Pro se representation can be risky, especially for anyone unfamiliar with the intricacies of the law.

Whether a defendant should work with a public defender or hire their own lawyer involves a number of considerations. The defendant’s financial circumstances, the crime and potential penalty in question, and the importance of finding counsel compatible with the defendant personally as well as their legal needs are a few such considerations. It is best to seek help from a seasoned attorney who understands Colorado laws and regulations.

Get Started Building a Defense With a Loveland Misdemeanor Attorney Today

A conviction even for a minor infraction or petty offense could threaten your finances, freedom, or reputation. Whatever your background and whatever the charge, a Loveland misdemeanor lawyer who helps you fashion a strong defense suited to you and your case could be invaluable.

Call Justie and Jenn at Colorado Lawyer Team to discuss your legal options.