Criminal Defense Attorney in Fort Collins, Colorado
Effective Criminal Defense Strategies
As a criminal defense attorney in Fort Collins, I’m well acquainted with all kinds of criminal cases and the defense strategies lawyers have used. There are certain characteristics that distinguish good criminal defense lawyers from the rest. Your attorney must be able to negotiate, litigate and must truly care about you to obtain a positive outcome in your case. Moreover, a good criminal defense attorney listens to their clients and understands their unique goals and interests.
As a former prosecutor and highly-respected trial lawyer focused on criminal defense and personal injury, I’ve worked toward making sure my clients’ rights are not imposed upon. My Colorado law firm, Liggett, Johnson and Goodman, PC, is one of the few attorney offices in the Fort Collins area that is able to handle your criminal defense in a felony sexual assault or other major felony, including organized crime (COCCA) cases.
Prior to reaching out to an attorney, it’s important to make sure they are capable. When dealing with multiple witnesses, trials can become lengthy. Additionally, gathering and thoroughly evaluating the evidence can become pertinent to presenting your case. Lastly, calling upon the testimony of expert witnesses can truly result in different outcomes within any trial. Ask yourself, “is your attorney experienced in these areas?”
One of the Best Rated Criminal Defense Lawyers in Northern Colorado
When it comes to hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you want someone who is experienced and trustworthy. David H. Johnson is regularly rated one of the best criminal defense lawyers in Northern Colorado and has worked with many satisfied clients throughout his long career.
Aside from his extensive legal knowledge and strong track record, David H. Johnson receives great reviews from past clients for his professionalism and compassion. Here are just a few of the reasons he is one of the best criminal defense lawyers in Fort Collins:
- Compassionate. Many of David’s clients are at a low point in their lives because of criminal charges or other circumstances. No matter the charges or accusations, David H. Johnson treats each client with compassion. He works to get them back on their desired track. He genuinely cares about each client and works to achieve their best outcome. Some may be counted out by society. David H. Johnson stands with them and compassionately fights for them.
- Honest. David H. Johnson prides himself on being trustworthy and honest with his clients and colleagues. He understands the law and uses the law to get results for his clients. Knowing what to disclose and what to keep to himself allows David to honestly negotiate favorable resolutions for his Clients. Additionally, clients know they can trust David to tell them the truth and act with integrity.
- Professional. David H. Johnson has worked in Northern Colorado for over thirty years and has built a strong reputation of professionalism. He is well-respected in the legal community, which has helped him build a strong network of resources to help his clients. David treats every case and client with respect and tirelessly works for his clients.
Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a crime like drunk driving, theft, or domestic abuse, it’s important to hire a criminal defense lawyer. The legal process is complicated. Often your best chance of getting a fair and just result for your case is to have a lawyer guide you through the legal process.
- Representation. A criminal defense lawyer is your advocate that represents you. It is your legal right to have a lawyer. A criminal defense lawyer is your advocate and protects your rights.
- Knowledge. An experienced criminal defense attorney understands the legal system both intellectually and from experience in the courtroom. They are knowledgeable about the laws of Colorado and use that knowledge to represent and assist their clients.
- Resources. Criminal defense attorneys have resources that their clients often would not have access to on their own. Criminal statutes and case law that has applied relevant facts to the law assist your attorney in preparing a defense. Working in a law firm allows your attorney to consult other firm attorneys for their opinions, helping develop a consensus on how to proceed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about the legal process and hiring a criminal defense attorney in Fort Collins. Here are some of the more common questions and answers.
What type of cases does a criminal defense attorney handle?
Criminal defense attorneys represent clients charged with a crime. Crimes range from petty offenses, misdemeanors to felonies. Some defense attorneys focus on certain types of crime and develop more experience in handling those cases. David H. Johnson is a skilled criminal defense attorney who focuses on vehicular assault/homicide, theft, assaults and domestic violence, criminal mischief, harassment, drug offenses, white-collar crimes, embezzlement, sex assaults, fraud and forgery, restraining orders/protection orders, drug-related offenses, DUIs, criminal mischief, and trespass. This includes felony and misdemeanor crimes.
When should I hire a criminal defense attorney?
A criminal defense attorney can begin representing you at nearly any point during the legal process. However, it is in your best interest to contact a lawyer upon being charged with a crime. Early on a criminal defense attorney can assist you with bail, arguing for a reduced bond, and preserving evidence that may disappear over time. A lawyer can also advise you on the pros and cons of responding to that police officer and accompany you if you decide to be questioned by a police officer. Consulting a lawyer prior to talking to a police officer is always advisable.
Does hiring a lawyer make me look guilty?
No. Attorneys are a crucial part of the legal process. It just happens that some clients are guilty and some are not guilty. The premise of the U.S. legal system is the presumption of innocence. Even if you are guilty, a criminal defense attorney can present mitigation that often results in reduced charges and better sentencing options. If you are innocent, the criminal defense lawyer will develop your case and fight to get the charges dropped. Either way, a criminal defense attorney in Fort Collins will be with you each step of the legal process to fight for you during a difficult and complicated time.
Can a criminal defense attorney guarantee the outcome of my case?
No. Just because you hire a criminal defense lawyer doesn’t mean the attorney can guarantee a result. From past experiences, your lawyer may have an idea of what is likely to happen in your case. However, your case is based on perceived facts. Depending on how the facts of your case play out will likely determine the outcome of your case. There are other variables at play too, including the jurisdiction of your case, the prosecutor, and even the judge. It is unethical for a lawyer to guarantee an outcome of your case.
Can I contact a criminal defense attorney on behalf of someone else?
Often a family member will contact a criminal defense attorney on behalf of a loved one who is facing charges, especially if that loved one has been arrested and detained. After the family has provided the initial details, the lawyer can then communicate with the accused person.