Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Blog
Understanding the Colorado Probation System: The Basics
As an experienced Colorado probation violation attorney at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., Timothy Bussey understands the complexities of Colorado probation and its various programs. Mr. Bussey also knows that it can be confusing to keep track of the conditions of these programs. Many people assigned to probation commit violations without realizing it because they are not aware of or do not understand the conditions of their program. This is the first of a two-part article that will cover the basics of Colorado probation as well as the types of probation programs and their conditions.
If You Don’t Party Sensibly at Prom, You May End Up with a DUI
Spring is a busy time for high schoolers, starting with prom and going all the way through graduation. Let’s not forget spring break, either. For those looking to get into trouble, there are plenty of opportunities. The local and state police know all about this time of year, and they will be actively looking for teenagers who are breaking the law.
You Accidentally Brought a Gun to the Airport – What Now?
So, you accidentally brought a gun to the airport, and it was discovered by the TSA or other airport authorities. What now? The first thing to note is that this happens to many people. While the number of guns discovered at airports is relatively rare compared to how many people own guns in the United States, firearm discoveries still occur every day, even in Colorado.
What Can Happen If I’m Caught Driving Under License Suspension?
The penalties for driving with a suspended license in Colorado can be quite severe, including fines, jail time, and further suspension of your license.
These depend on the reason your license was suspended in the first place, as well as how many times you have committed this offense. In any DUR situation, an experienced criminal defense attorney can help minimize your punishment. For specifics to your own situation, please call The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., for a free consultation.
What Should I Expect in Each Stage of a Criminal Case?
This is only a very general and not entirely inclusive guide to the stages of a criminal case.
The actual process can be quite complicated, so if you have been arrested in Colorado, you should seek immediate legal representation from our experienced Colorado Springs criminal defense attorneys at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C.
How Trace Drugs in Crime Labs Can Affect Evidence
In today’s criminal cases, prosecutors and the courts rely heavily on forensic testing in order to prove a case. Use of lab testing is seen as an objective alternative to other types of evidence, such as eyewitness testimony, which have been proven to be unreliable.
However, a recent study found that forensic chemists’ handling of illegal drugs can cause detectable levels of drugs in the lab environment.
Rise in Property Crimes Since Legalization of Weed
Legal marijuana shops are linked to higher levels of property crime in nearby areas, according to a nearly three-year study in Denver. Researchers from Ohio State University found that while crime isn’t higher in the area immediately surrounding marijuana outlets, adjacent areas saw about 84 more property crimes per year than neighborhoods without a nearby marijuana store. (Science Daily). It’s of note that “no significant increase in violent crime was seen as a result of marijuana sales.”
What Happens in a Criminal Case Before Charges Are Filed?
In general, the pre-filing stage of a criminal case refers to everything that happens before criminal charges are officially filed. This can include quite a lot or very little, depending on the specific details. There are some differences in this process between a felony and misdemeanor in Colorado, but most of the process is pretty similar.
How to Prevent Lifetime Registration as a Sex Offender
If you are being charged with a sex crime, then you are likely filled with dread and anxiety over the severe penalties that you face. Sexual crimes are among the most aggressively prosecuted in the state of Colorado, and often times there are mandatory protocols that district attorneys must follow that prevent them from dropping charges, even when leniency or common sense might otherwise dictate such a course of action.
Failure to Appear Consequences in Colorado
Unlike many other appointments in our day-to-day lives, court appearances are scheduled based on the court’s schedule, with little regard for a defendant’s personal schedule. Although it can be an inconvenience for those who have work or children, it is of utmost importance to comply with scheduled court appearances.