What EVERY First-Time Colorado Offender Needs to Know
Have you committed a crime for the first time in Colorado? Were you arrested with a crime you didn’t do? If you answered yes to either of those, you’re likely nervous and worried about what will happen next. We will start by saying that the good news is that you have options available to you to protect your future.
What Happens Following My Arrest?
When you are charged with a crime there are a few different ways your situation can play out.
You can:
- Be arrested before having the charges brought
- Be given a notice to appear in court
- Have the charges dropped altogether
As you can see, the outcomes are very different, which is why it’s so crucial to work with an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney following an arrest, especially if you’re facing charges that involve Colorado DUI laws. A trusted attorney can put together a plan to help you fight your charges and return to your prior life as soon as possible.
It’s important to remember that you are not guilty simply because you’ve been arrested, even in cases involving misunderstandings in sexual misconduct allegations. The prosecution must prove that you are, in fact, guilty before any negative consequences are brought upon you. It’s important to remain calm and let your attorney handle your case.
Potential Penalties
It’s important to understand the possible penalties for your crime. While every offense is different and each offense comes with its own consequences, there are common penalties that first-time offenders are subject to, including:
- Jail time
- Severe fines
- Misdemeanor conviction
- Felony conviction
- A stained criminal/driving record
- Difficulty finding employment opportunities
- Community service time
- Probation
First-time offenders are subject to the same penalties as other criminals, however, the law is often forgiving to those with no criminal background. Additionally, many states offer diversion programs where you can have your charges dismissed after meeting certain criteria.
How to Prepare Your Defense in Denver
We understand that getting arrested for the first time can be an extremely stressful experience, and working with a trusted team can help ease your worries. If you’ve been charged with a crime, our team can help.
Call us today (720) 445-9887 to learn more about how The Law Offices of Kevin Cahill can help over a free, confidential consultation.
