Several new drug laws were enacted in 2023. Obviously, the Centennial State is well known for its progressive drug laws, and that tradition continues. Still, there are severe penalties for using, selling or manufacturing certain drugs. Below is a brief rundown of what...
Criminal Law
These things escalate DUI penalties
The U.S. criminal law system works in degrees, going from least severe charges to the most severe charges. In many states, there will be a charge like second-degree assault, but Colorado's sliding system of justice uses Class 1 through 6 (6 being the most severe) for...
People convicted of some felonies may see shorter sentences
Colorado lawmakers are considering changes to felony sentencing guidelines as part of criminal justice reform. A panel of stakeholders from throughout the criminal justice system called the Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice created and drafted the...
Colorado eliminates wait for ignition interlock systems
There are many benefits to hiring a lawyer when facing DUI charges. An important one for many is that a lawyer can argue to get their client back on the road after a conviction. This work enables the client to perform such crucial tasks as doing their job and...
Strategies for raising at-risk-teens
Raising children is often one of the most rewarding yet challenging jobs one has in life. Parents want happy children that grow into responsible, trustworthy and successful (in the broadest sense of the term) adults. There are, however, many distractions and...
A pathway is clearing for easier DNA testing
Since the early 1990s, DNA testing cleared hundreds of innocent people wrongfully convicted and brought guilty people to justice after decades where their cases went unsolved. Colorado has allowed postconviction DNA testing for over 20 years, but just three people...
The police need someone’s permission to enter
Many understand enough about the law to know that an occupant or resident is not required to allow entry to law enforcement unless there is a search warrant. Still, many will oblige an officer who asks to enter a home. Those living with college roommates, family...
Some legal actions protect against false allegations
Even an offhand accusation of crimes can affect a person’s reputation, career, relationships and even where the accused lives. Therefore, it is essential to note that the justice system has checks and balances that give the defendant charged with any crime the right...
6 common crimes often tied to alcohol consumption
Anyone whose been to college knows that binge drinking and prolonged drinking events are part of campus life. Still, this behavior can continue into adulthood in any of our communities, having a long-term negative effect. Here is a list of crimes often involving...
What’s the difference between burglary, robbery or theft?
Those who take valuable property without the owner's consent can result in criminal charges. Prosecutors will likely choose between burglary, robbery or theft charges. They all involve stealing property, but they are distinct criminal offenses with different levels of...