A Firm Offering Aggressive And Experienced Criminal Defense Counsel
At The Viorst Law Offices, P.C., in Denver, our attorneys have extensive experience representing people charged with misdemeanors and felonies in state and federal courts. We recognize that the criminal justice system can seem unfair, arbitrary and capricious. With nearly 40 years of combined legal experience handling criminal matters, our lawyers know how to build strong defenses for their clients and present them in court. Their objective is to give you the information you need to make informed decisions about your case.
The Knowledge And Skill You Want When Your Future Is On The Line
With the right representation, an arrest and a criminal charge do not have to be the equivalent of a conviction. Our founding attorney, Anthony Viorst, has been handling criminal trials and complex appeals for more than three decades. As a former public defender, he participated in hundreds of criminal trials and appeals. He and our other attorney, David William Chambers, bring the full weight of their experience to bear on every criminal matter they oversee.
We recognize that selecting the right criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions most people will ever make. Our firm offers every potential client a free initial consultation, during which we will discuss the pending charges, review the evidence and provide a candid assessment of how we can help. Our firm is committed to aggressively defending our clients’ interests prior to charges being filed, during plea negotiations, at trial and during any necessary appeals.
Answers To Common Questions About Colorado Criminal Law
Below, we’ve answered some questions that you might have about being arrested and prosecuted in Colorado.
Can I represent myself in Colorado?
Yes, you have the right to represent yourself in a criminal case in Colorado. This is known as “pro se” representation. However, most legal professionals (including judges) would tell you that doing so is unwise. Criminal law is complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe.
Representing yourself means you will be responsible for understanding and following all court procedures and legal requirements. Our firm is here to help you understand your legal options and provide the representation you need to achieve the most favorable outcome available in your case.
This is my first time being arrested. What should I expect?
Being arrested for the first time can be a frightening and confusing experience. After your arrest, you will likely be taken to a police station for booking, fingerprinting and “mug shots.” Next comes the arraignment, a court appearance where the judge asks you to plead guilty, not guilty or no contest to the charges.
Depending on the details of your case and when you contact a lawyer, your defense attorney can begin negotiating with prosecutors before charges are even filed. These negotiations can continue after the arraignment, and it is possible that your charges could be resolved without the need for a trial. No matter what happens, though, our firm is dedicated to guiding you through each step of the legal process and advocating on your behalf.
If police failed to read me my rights, will the case be dismissed?
Failure to read you your “Miranda rights,” as they are called, does not automatically mean dismissal of your case. However, it may impact the admissibility of any statements you made while in custody.
The short speech is intended to inform you of your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. If these rights were not communicated to you, any statements you made in response to police questioning may be excluded from evidence. This can significantly affect the prosecution’s case against you. Our attorneys will evaluate the details of your arrest and determine if your rights were violated. From there, we can explain your full list of defense options.
Prompt Action Is Important When You Face Criminal Charges
The best time to consult with a criminal defense lawyer is before charges are filed. Obviously, that is not always possible. When it is not, it is imperative that you meet with a defense attorney as soon after your arrest as you can.
Call 303-872-5712 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. The Viorst Law Offices is based in Denver and serves clients throughout Colorado.
