Category Archives: Criminal Defense

What is Colorado’s “Express Consent” Law?

What is Colorado’s “Express Consent” Law

When a police officer stops a Colorado driver on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), the officer may ask the driver to participate in a chemical test for alcohol or drugs.  Often, this is performed as a “breath test” using a device like a Breathalyzer or a Datamaster. Although it can be tempting to […]

Colorado DUI Laws also Cover “Drugged Driving”

Colorado DUI Laws also Cover “Drugged Driving”

Most Colorado drivers think of alcohol when they hear the term “driving under the influence” or “DUI.” But Colorado’s DUI laws also cover driving while affected by other drugs, whether they are legally prescribed medications, controlled substances, or other substances. According to the Colorado Department of Human Services, about five percent of all drivers involved […]

Report: Colorado Marijuana Arrests Have Decreased, but Racial Disparities Persist

Report Colorado Marijuana Arrests Have Decreased, but Racial Disparities Persist

A recent report indicates that although the number of charges filed for marijuana possession have dropped dramatically in the past year, charges are still being filed disproportionately against racial minorities, according to an article in the Colorado Springs Gazette. The report, based on an analysis by the Drug Policy Alliance, found that charges for marijuana possession, distribution, and […]

Colorado Appeals Court Rules That Defendants May Search Victims’ Homes

Colorado Appeals Court Rules That Defendants May Search Victims’ Homes

An appeals court in Colorado recently ruled that a person facing criminal charges in Colorado may search a victim’s home in order to gather information that may help their defense, according to a recent ABC News report. The appeals court considered a case in which a man accused of sexual assault was denied access to the alleged crime scene, […]

Colorado Lawmakers Introduce Bills to Address Crime in Schools

Colorado Lawmakers Introduce Bills to Address Crime in Schools

In 2014, the Colorado Department of Education registered over 6,000 allegations involving drugs, nearly 4,000 alleged assaults, and about 700 allegations of dangerous weapons being found in the state’s public schools.  Colorado law enforcement are required to report allegations of crime that they investigate in schools – but according to some Colorado lawmakers, those reports are […]

Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Colorado’s Appeal of DUI Blood Tests Without a Warrant

Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Colorado’s Appeal of DUI Blood Tests Without a Warrant

According to the Associated Press, the U.S. Supreme Court refuses to hear an appeal from Colorado officials who are hoping to give authorities the right to take blood samples from suspected drunk drivers without first receiving permission or a warrant. In 2013, Colorado officials argued that police officers should be able to draw blood samples from […]

Changes to Colorado DUI Laws Coming January 1

Changes to Colorado DUI Laws Coming January 1

On January 1, 2014, House Bill 13-1240 will go into effect. This bill marks changes that have been a direct result of lobbying efforts by the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar and DUI (driving under the influence) defense firms. House Bill 13-1240 alters several existing laws regarding license reinstatement Once in effect, House Bill 13-1240 will allow a […]

County Prosecutors Ask U.S. Supreme Court to Review Colorado DUI Case

County Prosecutors Ask U.S. Supreme Court to Review Colorado DUI Case

Prosecutors in Arapahoe County recently petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review a driving under the influence (DUI) case heard by a state judge and reviewed by the Colorado Supreme Court, according to an article in the CT Post. The case involves a 2012 traffic accident in which a driver was given a blood test without his […]

Five Things Best Left Unsaid at the Thanksgiving Table

Five Things Best Left Unsaid at the Thanksgiving Table

The Thanksgiving table is perfectly set. The turkey is tasty and tender. The mashed potatoes are just right. And then it begins – the bickering. Thanksgiving is that wonderful time of the year when families come together to express gratitude for everything we have received during the year. But, what happens at the table may […]