Teller County Violent Crime Defense Attorneys
Charged with a Crime of Violence in Teller County?
A crime of violence is not a specific offense, but a designation that leads to increased penalties. When the District Attorney serving Teller County makes the determination that a crime meets the criteria of a violent crime, a far more extreme sentence will be imposed in a conviction. The law does not allow a judge to exercise the usual discretion, with the requirement to impose prison time. In cases of the use of a deadly weapon in commission of the crime, the prison sentence can be enhanced further.
If you are accused of committing a crime of violence in Teller County, the actions of your criminal attorney stand between you and years in state prison. Exercise your right to remain silent, and your right to an attorney and contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. at (719) 475-2555.
What is a Violent Crime?
The types of offenses that may allow the District Attorney to seek a violent crime sentence enhancement include:
- Murder
- First and Second Degree Assault
- Sexual Offenses
- Second Degree Kidnapping
- Aggravated Robbery
- First Degree Burglary
- Carjacking
- Bank Robbery
- First Degree Arson
- Criminal Extortion
Penalties for Crimes of Violence in Teller County
The penalties imposed by the judge in a conviction for an offense with the “crime of violence” enhancement restrict the judge from imposing probation, community service, or another alternative sentence. The judge does not have this type of discretion in these cases but must order the convicted person to the Department of Corrections to spend time in prison.
The length of the sentence must be at least the mid-point of a prison term as outlined in the Colorado state sentencing guidelines. The judge has the distraction to impose a sentence as much as twice the maximum term. The sentence cannot be suspended, and the offender will be required to serve at least 75% of the sentence, rather than the standard 50% for crimes without a “crime of violence” enhancement.
Violent Crimes Involving Dangerous Weapons
The sentencing enhancement is even more severe when the prosecutor claims the crime was committed with certain firearms. These weapons are listed as semi-automatic assault weapons with a detachable magazine with the capacity of 20 or more rounds, firearms with a silencer, shortened shotgun, or certain knives (ballistic) will require the court to impose an additional five years to the sentence.
The Rights of the Accused
As a defendant in a violent crime case, you have rights. The prosecutor has the “burden of proof” and must establish beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. You have the right to defend yourself against the charges. Your Teller County criminal defense attorney may employ various defenses, which may include:
- You did not commit the crime
- You acted in self defense
- Law enforcement violated your constitutional rights
- You have a strong alibi
- Another party is making false accusations
Defense Attorney for Violent Crime Cases in Teller County
You have the right to an attorney, but the quality, experience, and track record in defending violent crimes can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., the case will be defended by a leading criminal attorney with an impressive record of success in criminal court. Attorney Tim Bussey has been voted “Top Attorney” for ten years running and is often featured as a guest on media outlets such as NBC, ABC, and local TV stations. Mr. Bussey has successfully defended cases in both the state and state supreme courts. His approach is professional, thorough, and includes a deep evaluation of all the facts in the case to identify the most effective defense strategy to present in court.
If you have been accused of a violent crime in Teller County, call The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. at (719) 475-2555 for a free case consultation.
Call now for legal help
(719) 475-2555
