The criminal justice system can be complex. Most cases take several weeks to months to conclude. After your arrest, there may be a bond hearing, arraignment, pre-trial conference, suppression hearing, trial and sentencing. Even after a verdict, your case could be appealed or you may face post-conviction issues involving probation or parole. These events can disrupt not only your life, but also the lives of those you love.
Misdemeanor Process
If it’s your first time dealing with a misdemeanor, you’ve probably got several questions about the process. What can you expect? When you’ve been arrested or charged with a misdemeanor, the first step you’ll encounter is a bond hearing. A bond hearing typically takes place within 24-hours of arrest and is a contract guaranteeing your appearance in court. It’s important to note that for more serious offenses, or if the bond may be denied. It is here the Court can impose pre-trial supervision and require certain conditions while out on bond.
As your case progresses through the court system you will have an arraignment, pre-trial conference, with a possible suppression hearing, disposition hearing, and sentencing or a jury trial. The arraignment is usually the first part of the misdemeanor process. At the arraignment, you’ll be read the charges you’ve been charged with. At this point, you’ll either plead “guilty” or “not guilty.” Based on this response, an additional hearing or sentencing may be imposed.
While the events throughout the misdemeanor process may seem frightening, we can get through them. If you’re unsure about the process, please reach out to me and set up a consult.
Felony Process
The felony process is more complex and has more serious implications. After an arrest, you will have a bond hearing and be advised of your rights. In some serious instances, whether you’re deemed a flight-risk or accused of a heinous crime, bond may be denied.
If bond is posed, it’s here the Court can impose pre-trial supervision and require certain conditions while you’re out on bond. Your case will also be assigned to a District Courtroom. With certain felony charges we can request a preliminary hearing. During the preliminary hearing, a judge will determine whether a crime, was in fact, committed. Furthermore, that the crime was committed by you, the defendant.
Through status conferences and negotiations with the District Attorney’s Office efforts will be made to reach a disposition in your case. If a resolution is not reached then a suppression hearing and jury trial are scheduled. Throughout the process, you will want an advocate by your side, protecting your rights and minimizing the consequences of a felony investigation. It’s important to not that it’s incredibly dangerous for the accused to speak with the prosecuting attorney directly. Divulging information to the prosecution can be used against you in court, so be sure to have an experienced Colorado felony defense attorney in your corner.
TESTIMONIALS
What Do Our Clients Say?
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Omar Rodriguez
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If it wasn’t for David I’d probably in a way worse of a situation that I am now. Worked hard to get my case where I needed it and fought hard to give me the best possible outcome. In my opinion he’s in of the best attorneys in the northern Colorado area. Would definitely recommend him! Thank you Mr. Johnson.
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Tamra Engle- NREMT
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Dave & Lisa kindly & patiently assisted me through the legal process, and directed me to pretrial education which made a terrifying experience manageable-
I would recommend him without reservation-
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Kyle Black
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Probably the best I could have expected of DUI to go. Mr. Johnson was very attentive and therefore me through every step of the process. Would definitely recommend!
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Chad Bryant
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David and Lisa displayed attentiveness, professionalism, and genuine care throughout my case and helped me through each step of the process. I’d recommend this office to anyone feeling concerned or worried about the legal process and is looking for professional representation.
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yeah
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Respectful, invested, through. Speedy resolution in my case. Exactly what I wanted and needed from an attorney.
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Asa Gomez
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David Johnson has represented me for this past year, and throughout my legal proceedings he has been dedicated and motivated to provide me with the best council. Renowned in Larimer county, his reputation carries weight in the courthouse and and it was reassuring to hear from others how hard he works for his clients.
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Virgil Steward
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David was great. On time and very polite
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Raj Kumar
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Great experience with David Johnson! 5/5 would recommend to a friend! His assistant was wonderful, and David would always be quick to respond back to me/get ahold of!
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John Newman
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I received a DUI charge while visiting Colorado from Tennessee, but was set to move to Arizona 4 months later, making my case quite complicated. David and his team helped me navigate the ins and outs of what was required of me at each step and negotiated a shorter probationary period than what is typical for the circumstances of my case. Additionally, I was told my the probation department that how my case was resolved was much cleaner and advantageous than they had seen for similar cases in the past. I would recommend David to anyone in the Loveland-Fort Collins area.
Jane Doe,
Please accept my/our most heartfelt thanks for your representation. The gift of your time will not be forgotten, nor your words of wisdom.
Jane Doe,
I appreciate all of your hard work through this mess of mine. I am so fortunate to have found you. I can’t nearly express the amount of thanks I have.
Jane Doe,
You saved my life. I am forever grateful. Happy Holidays.
Jane Doe,
Thank you for your legal services. At the height of our legal issue, you were calm and helped us feel calm. You helped us through a difficult time in our life. God bless you.
Jane Doe,
Thank you so much for going out of your way to help me with my ticket. I really appreciate it. Thanks again.
Jane Doe,
Jon’s a good friend of mine. I hired him to handle my personal injury case. When I told him the insurance company hadn’t offered anything (including to pay my hospital bills), he was taken aback. He handled the case from beginning to end and we settled with the insurance company for $50,000.
Jane Doe,
I appreciate your help to finish a fight that I certainly didn’t ask for. Your kindness and professional help got me through it all. Thanks Again.
Jane Doe,
We just wanted to thank you and your office for everything you have done for our family! You really helped save our year! Thanks a million.
Jane Doe,
Your prompt attention and response to my situation is greatly appreciated. You are the best!
Thank you for your interest and considering for using Lee E. Christian Law, for your legal representation needs. I encourage you to reach out to me with any questions you may have. As an attorney that cares, I want to see all of our clients’ lives move beyond the temporary pain of legal action.
If you'd like to schedule a free consultation, please give me a call using the contact information below. I look forward to helping you.
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Phone (970) 484-0300
Business Hours MON - FRI: 9:00am - 5:00pm WEEKENDS: By Appointment
Helping clients in FORT COLLINS and throughout Northern Colorado.
