#1- Different Levels of Drug Charges

If a drug charge is being handed down, there are two possibilities. The drug charge is a felony or a misdemeanor, and each charge type has sublevels. A Drug Misdemeanor could be either a DM1 or DM2, while Drug Felonies can be a DF1, DF2, DF3, or DF4.

For a first-time offender, knowing what to expect can be a challenge. In short, there are two possible outcomes that may become a reality after an arrest.

1. Being required to appear in court to review your charges
2. Having your charges dropped or your case dismissed

These levels can alter the results expected at the end of the case, from fines to jail time. Whether you’re a first-time offender of a misdemeanor offense or a first-time offender of a felony offense, it’s essential to seek legal aid.

#2- The Possible Outcomes

If you have to proceed with your case, you can either be found guilty or not guilty. A guilty verdict can result in community service, fines, probation, or incarceration.

#3- Challenges Following an Arrest

The difficulties don’t end once the case is over. If you have been arrested, there are a few challenges you may be surprised by when attempting to move forward with your life, especially if you’ve been found guilty. Difficulty finding employment and dealing with new insurance premiums or driving record issues are two common hardships that follow an arrest.

#4- DUI vs. DWAI

Many first-time offenders are unaware that driving while affected by alcohol or drugs can take the form of two different charges. DUI, or driving under the influence, is the charge given when an individual operates a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. DWAI, or driving while ability impaired, is the charge presented when an individual uses a vehicle with a BAC that is less than 0.08% but greater than 0.05%.

#5- Seeking Legal Counsel 

If you have been arrested, it’s always in your best interest to seek legal counsel. Even if the charge seems easy to dispute or you’re sure you’re innocent. Legal aid can help you prepare for court and argue your case, especially if you’re a first-time offender and you’re new to the criminal justice system.

#6- Examining the Reports

Police reports and other documents are not always free from errors. If any reports are associated with your case, you will want to examine them closely. If you discover anything that doesn’t accurately reflect the incident, bring it to the attention of your legal representative.

Being charged with a crime is quite serious. Things can quickly go from bad to worse if you’re not represented appropriately. If you are arrested for the first time, reach out to a Colorado criminal defense attorney at Juba Law. One of our legal professionals will help you reach the best possible conclusion to your case.

The post 6 Things First-Time Offenders in Colorado Need to Know appeared first on The Juba Law Office PLLC.

However, in the event that this does occur, it is crucial to take immediate steps to navigate the Colorado juvenile court system properly. Here are some things parents should know to prepare for their child’s arrest.

#1. Remain Calm and Non-Judgmental

No matter what your child has done, it’s important to remind them that you are an ally and here to help. With an estimated 700,000 juvenile arrests occurring in the US during 2019, your child is not in this boat alone. Let them know that they will get through this experience and that you’ll be working to support them throughout the process.

#2. Stay Courteous with the Authorities

While staying composed in front of the officers who arrested your child may seem difficult, remaining respectful is key. Insulting or arguing with the authorities will only hurt your child’s case. Remember that you are not a lawyer; instead, you are simply there to provide your child with emotional support.

#3. Do NOT Speak to the Police without a Lawyer Present

While you should always maintain a polite attitude towards the authorities, you should also understand that they are not on your child’s side. Unfortunately, the police are not impartial when it comes to your child’s case. As such, you should refrain from speaking with them without a lawyer present.

The right to remain silent also applies to your child. While juveniles in custody must provide at least some identifying information, such as their name and date of birth, they are not required to disclose any information regarding their case. If the police try to speak to your child, you and your child should invoke the right to remain silent and request to speak to a juvenile defense attorney.

#4. Call a Lawyer Immediately

You may be asking yourself, “Do you need a lawyer for juvenile court?” The short answer is: yes.

After your child informs you of their arrest, you’ll want to contact a juvenile defense lawyer immediately. This is a vital step, as an experienced lawyer will understand the ins and outs of Colorado juvenile laws and how they apply to your child’s case. Most importantly, a juvenile lawyer will be a steadfast advocate for both you and your child for the duration of their case.

#5. Talk to your Child

In these early moments, it’s crucial to keep your child informed and hopeful. Once you have spoken to a lawyer, be sure to relay any important information to your child. Let them know about the juvenile court, how Colorado juvenile laws might apply to their situation, and anything else your attorney deems essential. You’ll also want to remind them not to talk to the police under any circumstances, as this could potentially interfere with their case down the line.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Juvenile Court?

If you’ve already found yourself searching “juvenile attorney near me,” you’ve likely discovered there is no shortage of options. The real problem is finding a lawyer you can trust to fight tirelessly for you and your child.

Since 2012, the expert attorneys at The Juba Law Office, PLLC, have established themselves as dedicated law professionals who get results. Don’t wait for your case to worsen; call us immediately at (303) 974-1080 for a consultation on your situation and the options you may have.

SOURCES:

https://www.ojjdp.gov/ojstatbb/crime/qa05101.asp

https://www.vice.com/en/article/mvkgnp/law-professor-police-interrogation-law-constitution-survival

The post 5 Steps to Take When Your Child Is Arrested in Colorado appeared first on The Juba Law Office PLLC.