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There are few things more worrisome in life than being charged with a crime. While some offenses are more serious than others, any mark on your permanent record could impact you for years to come. In addition to jail time and fines, you might also face consequences like the loss of your immigration status or parental rights.
The stakes are too high to represent yourself in court. With the support of a skilled defense attorney, you may be able to successfully resolve the case against you. Let Arapahoe County criminal defense lawyer Mike Petrash assist you from start to finish.
Different types of criminal charges exist under state law. Understanding the nature of these types of offenses can be invaluable.
The worst crimes under state law are treated as felonies. They include anything from robbery to rape and even murder. Most drug offenses are also treated as felonies. There are six classes of felony offenses, with Class 1 having the steepest penalties. Prison terms can range from 18 months to life, depending on the severity of the offense.
Misdemeanors are not as serious as felonies, but a conviction could still result in up to 18 months behind bars. One of the most common misdemeanors is driving under the influence. Other examples include obstructing a police officer, resisting arrest, or indecent exposure.
Petty offenses are a subset of misdemeanors. They are the lowest type of criminal charge and largely include minor property crimes—as opposed to violent offenses. Some examples include littering or third-degree criminal trespass. Petty offenses might carry the lowest level of punishment upon conviction, but that does not mean they are minor. In some cases, being found guilty could result in as much as six months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
A criminal defense lawyer in Arapahoe County could help individuals navigate their charges, build a strong defense, and get the best possible outcome for their case.
State law contains numerous criminal offenses, but some are more likely than others to result in an arrest. Most arrests result from the violation of a handful of statutes. Some of the most common examples include:
No matter what the charges the prosecution brings, having the support and guidance of an Arapahoe County criminal defense attorney could make the difference. The support of a lawyer is important even when the evidence of guilt is strong. They may be able to negotiate a plea bargain that reduces the risk of incarceration or even potentially avoids a formal conviction.
No one should have to deal with the stress and worry of a criminal charge alone. An attorney could help fight against these charges and provide support during a difficult time. Reach out to former prosecutor and Arapahoe County criminal defense lawyer Mike Petrash to get started.