Felonies & Misdemeanors

Boulder Felony & Misdemeanor Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Felony & Misdemeanor Charges in Colorado

Facing a criminal charge is often an overwhelming experience, whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. Though many people consider felonies far more grave than misdemeanors—and felonies tend to carry more severe penalties—both felony and misdemeanor charges are taken quite seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors. Frequently, the prosecutor will seek significant ramifications for both felony and misdemeanor charges.

If you are facing a felony or misdemeanor conviction in Colorado, there are many things you need to know about your legal rights. Our Boulder, Colorado attorney can help you understand what to expect from the legal process, offering compassionate guidance and aggressive advocacy of your rights, regardless of whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor. At Barre M. Sakol, P.C., we strive to provide all our clients with superior representation.

Are you facing felony or misdemeanor charges in Colorado? Call Barre M. Sakol, P.C. today at (720) 999-9506 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our felony & misdemeanor attorney in Boulder!

Misdemeanor Charges in Colorado

Misdemeanors in Colorado are divided into three classes:

Class 1 Misdemeanors: The most serious misdemeanor offenses, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and/or fines up to $1,000.
Class 2 Misdemeanors: Punishable by up to 120 days in jail and/or fines up to $750.
Petty Offenses: Less serious than misdemeanors but still capable of resulting in fines and possible jail time.

Common misdemeanor offenses include:

DUI and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired)
Theft of property valued under $2,000
Assault in the third degree
Harassment
Criminal mischief (minor property damage)
Trespassing

Although misdemeanors carry lesser penalties than felonies, the repercussions of a conviction can linger. A dedicated Boulder felony & misdemeanor lawyer will fight aggressively to prevent a misdemeanor charge from derailing your life.

Felony Charges in Colorado

Felonies are divided into six classes in Colorado, with Class 1 being the most serious and Class 6 the least.

Class 1 Felony: Punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty (in applicable cases).
Class 2 Felony: Includes crimes such as second-degree murder and large-scale drug trafficking, punishable by 8-24 years in prison.
Class 3-6 Felonies: Cover a wide range of offenses such as assault, burglary, and certain types of fraud.

Some common felony charges include:

Sexual assault
Aggravated robbery
Vehicular homicide
Drug manufacturing and distribution
Identity theft
Burglary of a dwelling

A felony conviction impacts every area of life—from employment and housing to parental rights. Working with a skilled Boulder felony & misdemeanor attorney can help you fight these charges or seek ways to mitigate the penalties.

Consequences of Convictions

Regardless of whether the conviction is for a misdemeanor or felony, the collateral consequences can be devastating:

Loss of employment or professional licenses
Difficulty finding housing
Damage to personal and professional reputation
Immigration consequences, including deportation
Ineligibility for certain loans and public benefits
Inability to own or possess firearms

What to Do If You Are Charged

Facing criminal charges can be intimidating. Taking immediate and informed action improves your chances for a favorable resolution. If charged with a felony or misdemeanor:

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Anything said to law enforcement can and will be used against you.
Request Legal Counsel Immediately: Contact a Boulder felony & misdemeanor attorney as soon as possible.
Gather Documentation: Save evidence, witness information, and any other details related to your case.
Follow Court Orders and Instructions: Failing to do so can worsen your situation and lead to additional charges.

A proactive approach, combined with skilled legal representation, lays the foundation for an effective defense.

The Arrest Process for Felony & Misdemeanor Cases in Colorado

One of the most important things to remember after you are charged or arrested for a crime is your right to remain silent. It is wise to consider the possible implications of making a statement to the authorities. Substantial legal implications come with making a false statement to the authorities; therefore, you are better off remaining silent in nearly every situation.

If you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s wise to do the following:

Be very selective about who you speak to regarding your case—even family members can be forced to testify against you
Do not post anything about your case on any social media website
Do not incriminate yourself!

If you have been arrested for a crime, it is essential to contact a Boulder felony lawyer or misdemeanor attorney who can evaluate your specific situation and advise you on the right course of legal action for your unique case. Barre M. Sakol, P.C. has been fighting for the rights of the accused since 1980, offering sound legal counsel and outstanding representation at every step.

Contact Our Boulder Felony & Misdemeanor Lawyer Today

A criminal conviction can result in serious consequences, including incarceration in the Colorado state prison system or the county jail. We strongly recommend that you seek the advice of an experienced Boulder felony lawyer or misdemeanor attorney. To put it bluntly, if you choose to handle your criminal case without an attorney, your chances of getting the best possible offer from the prosecuting attorney are slim.

Barre can analyze your case, determine whether constitutional violations can lead to the exclusion of evidence or dismissal of the charges, and build a solid legal defense on your behalf. In your case, he has the experience and willingness to aggressively pursue a dismissal and/or fair disposition. If necessary, our firm is prepared to take your case to trial.

Having an experienced Boulder attorney by your side ensures that every aspect of your case is meticulously scrutinized. From assessing legal documents for errors to conducting independent investigations to gather additional evidence, a seasoned attorney can uncover critical insights. These efforts not only strengthen your defense but also provide peace of mind during a challenging time, knowing that your case is in capable hands.

Contact Barre M. Sakol, P.C. today by calling (720) 999-9506 to schedule a FREE consultation with our felony & misdemeanor lawyer in Boulder!

Commonly Asked Questions on Felony & Misdemeanor

Both felony and misdemeanor charges carry with them serious, long-lasting consequences. Enlisting the assistance of an experienced defense attorney in Boulder is merely the first step in an often lengthy defense process. At Barre M. Sakol, P.C., we are committed to keeping our clients informed and helping you understand what you can expect in the upcoming weeks, months, and even years.

Some of the most common questions that people ask when they have been arrested for a felony or misdemeanor offense include:

Am I going to jail?

Whether a conviction for a crime carries jail time depends on the severity of the crime and a defendant's criminal history. A defense attorney plays an essential role in the legal process for those accused of criminal offenses. Your lawyer will fight for you to stay out of jail or prison, and they will negotiate the best possible deal on your behalf.

What will a criminal conviction do to my future?

Being convicted of a felony or misdemeanor can derail your life. While your life will not be ruined, recovering and reestablishing yourself professionally and socially can be extremely challenging. If you were convicted of a felony, you would lose access to your 2A rights or careers in law enforcement and some areas of healthcare.

Do I need an attorney?

Every accused individual has a right to be represented and defended. A defense attorney's job isn't to prove your innocence but highlight how the government hasn't proved its case. Defense attorneys also stand between their clients and the state to prevent abuses of power.

How much will an attorney cost?

The cost of an attorney varies. An interested party would need to consult with an attorney with experience in the practice area needed.

Will I be able to get a job?

Colorado provides ban-the-box protection for workers with a criminal record seeking employment. The state also prohibits background checks beyond seven years. For Coloradans with a criminal record, some jobs may be unattainable. Jobs in public health & safety, education, law enforcement, or the legal field are not allowed.

What Happens During a Bail Hearing in Boulder?

After an arrest, one of the first formal proceedings an accused individual may face is a bail hearing. In Boulder, as in other parts of Colorado, the judge considers several factors in determining bail, such as the severity of the alleged crime, the accused’s criminal history, and potential flight risk. It's not just about the money; conditions may be placed on the defendant, like house arrest or regular check-ins with a court officer. Understanding the local practices is essential for ensuring fair consideration during these hearings. Having a well-prepared attorney to argue in your favor can often result in more lenient bail terms or even the option for release on personal recognizance.

How Do Boulder Courts Treat Repeat Offenders?

Boulder courts take repeat offenses seriously. For individuals with prior convictions, penalties can be much harsher, and leniency may be less likely. The courts often look at whether the nature of repeat offenses indicates a pattern of criminal behavior. This makes it crucial for repeat offenders to work with an attorney who can present mitigating circumstances and seek alternative sentencing options, such as rehabilitation programs or community service, which can sometimes be more beneficial for both the accused and society than traditional incarceration.

Is There a Difference in How Boulder Courts Handle Juvenile Offenders?

The Boulder court system approaches juvenile offenders with an emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment. The goal is often to guide young offenders towards making better choices, involving programs that focus on education, behavioral modification, and community involvement. However, serious offenses may still lead to harsh consequences. It is vital for guardians and young defendants to secure legal counsel familiar with both state and local juvenile justice regulations to navigate these proceedings effectively and protect the youth's future.

What Role Does Plea Bargaining Play in Boulder Criminal Cases?

In Boulder, as in many jurisdictions, plea bargaining is a common tool utilized in the criminal justice process. It serves as a negotiation method between the defendant's attorney and the prosecutor, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or to one of multiple charges in exchange for a lighter sentence or the dismissal of other charges. For many, this presents an opportunity to avoid the unpredictability of a trial. However, understanding the implications of accepting a plea deal, especially how it may impact one's record and future, necessitates careful deliberation with competent legal counsel to ensure it aligns with the defendant’s best interests.

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