Denver, like other big cities, is home to its fair share of criminal offenses. These crimes range from assault to murder. Here are some of the more common criminal charges a Denver criminal defense lawyer could defend against:
1.Violent crimes
Violent crimes are committed by a person with threats to use harmful force directed toward the victim. This includes both crimes in which the violent act is set into action, as well as crimes that use the threat of violence as leverage to commit a crime. Violent crimes are not always committed with weapons involved.
2.DUIs
The act of driving intoxicated is prohibited. This can be due to alcohol or any other drug. A DUI is a severe offense and is treated as such. This can have long-lasting repercussions.
3.Sex crimes
Sex crimes are one of the most serious offenses you can be charged with. In many cases of a sex crime, you will be ordered to register as a sex offender. This has long-lasting roadblocks that will derail your life as you know it. Sex offenses take a significant toll on your reputation also. Here is a list of some sex crimes:
- Rape
- Indecent exposure
- Child pornography
- Sexual assault
- Sexual battery
- Prostitution
- Sexual abuse
4.Drug crimes
Drug crimes are another offense taken very seriously. They come in three classifications, each with a severity level that can potentially result in a felony. Here are the three levels of drug crimes:
- Drug possession- The least serious charge involving drugs. While this is the least severe of the three, a felony charge if convicted.
- Drug trafficking- This is more serious than a possession charge. You might be charged with this crime if caught bringing drugs across state lines. This is generally a felony charge and comes with equally severe penalties.
- Drug manufacturing- Drug manufacturing is a charge you would receive if you are caught producing a controlled substance. This charge is a felony-level offense.
5.White collar crimes
White-collar crimes are crimes committed by businesses or members of governing bodies. These crimes typically do not cause any physical harm to the victim. Here are some white-collar crimes that are an issue in the Denver area:
- Bribery
- Corruption
- Different types of fraud
- Identity theft
- Computer crimes
- Embezzlement
- Money laundering
- Counterfeiting
- Insider trading
- Extortion
- Tax evasion
Penalties for Crimes Committed in Denver, CO.
The penalty you face depends on the type of crime you commit. Each offense will be placed into a category that will have a potential penalty which varies with each case. There are several categories of crimes, including:
- Petty offenses: The least severe crimes in Colorado. Petty offenses are listed as class 1 or class 2 party offenses. The maximum penalty for a Class 1 Offense is six months jail time and/or up to $500 in fines. A Class 2 is not as direct, but it will typically be a leader charge than a Class 1 offense.
- Misdemeanors: Misdemeanors cover a plethora of offenses and come with varying penalties. They are split into three classes (1, 2, and 3) and are less severe than felonies. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 18 months in county jail.
- Felonies: A felony conviction is the most serious offense and could carry a life sentence depending on the crime you are convicted of.
Possible Defenses for Crimes Committed
When you are accused of a crime, you have the right to fight the accusations. There are numerous defenses you can present at your hearing to counter your accuser. Some examples of these defenses for the crimes are:
- The person is innocent
- Violation of Constitutional rights
- The person has an alibi
- Self-defense
- Insanity
- Defending their property or a loved one
- Necessity
While many other defenses can be used, if you have been charged with any of the crimes mentioned above, you should seek assistance to help you go over what defensive actions you should take.
