Criminal Law in Arapahoe County
Arapahoe County is one of Colorado's most populous and diverse counties, encompassing cities such as Aurora, Englewood, Centennial, and Littleton. The county's rapid growth and urban density contribute to a wide range of criminal matters that residents and visitors may face, from traffic offenses to serious felony charges. Navigating the Colorado criminal justice system can be complex and overwhelming without proper legal guidance. A skilled criminal law attorney in Arapahoe County can protect your rights, evaluate the strength of the prosecution's case, and work toward the best possible outcome for your situation.
Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in Arapahoe County
Criminal cases in Arapahoe County are primarily handled by the Arapahoe County Combined Courts, located in Centennial, which includes both the Arapahoe County District Court for felony matters and the Arapahoe County County Court for misdemeanors, petty offenses, and traffic violations. The 18th Judicial District, which covers Arapahoe County along with Douglas, Elbert, and Lincoln counties, oversees the prosecution of criminal cases in this region. Juvenile criminal matters are heard in the Arapahoe County Juvenile Court, which operates within the same Combined Courts facility.
Common Criminal Law Situations in Arapahoe County
Some of the most common criminal matters in Arapahoe County involve DUI and DWAI charges, drug possession or distribution, domestic violence offenses, theft, assault, and traffic-related crimes. Aurora and Englewood, as heavily populated urban areas, also see significant numbers of cases involving weapons offenses, property crimes, and violations of protection orders. With Colorado's evolving drug laws, residents also encounter situations involving marijuana-related offenses, particularly those connected to public consumption, distribution, or driving under the influence of controlled substances.
Penalties and Outcomes in Colorado
Under Colorado law, criminal penalties vary significantly depending on the classification of the offense, ranging from petty offenses carrying fines and minimal jail time to Class 1 felonies that can result in life imprisonment. Misdemeanor convictions can lead to up to 364 days in county jail and fines of up to $1,000 for a Class 1 misdemeanor, while felony convictions may carry years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and substantial fines. Additional consequences can include probation, mandatory treatment programs, community service, loss of driving privileges, sex offender registration, and a permanent criminal record that may affect employment and housing opportunities.
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Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in Arapahoe County
Go To Court Lawyers connects Arapahoe County residents with experienced criminal defense attorneys who have a thorough understanding of Colorado law, local court procedures, and the practices of the 18th Judicial District. With free 24/7 legal information and a lawyer booking service coming soon, Go To Court is committed to making quality criminal defense accessible to everyone in Arapahoe County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Colorado?
In Colorado, misdemeanors are less serious criminal offenses that are divided into three classes, with Class 1 being the most serious and carrying penalties of up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. Felonies are more serious crimes classified from Class 6 to Class 1, with sentences ranging from one year up to life in the Colorado Department of Corrections. The classification of your charge will significantly affect the court that hears your case, the potential penalties you face, and the long-term impact on your record.
Can a criminal record be expunged or sealed in Colorado?
Colorado law allows for the sealing of certain criminal records under C.R.S. Section 24-72-704, which can prevent the record from appearing in most background checks conducted by employers, landlords, and the general public. Eligibility for record sealing depends on the nature of the offense, the outcome of the case, and the amount of time that has passed since the conviction or case closure. Juvenile records may also be eligible for sealing or expungement under separate provisions, and a criminal law attorney can help you determine whether your specific record qualifies.
What should I do if I am arrested in Arapahoe County?
If you are arrested in Arapahoe County, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney under the Fifth and Sixth Amendments to the United States Constitution, as well as Colorado law. You should exercise your right to remain silent and politely decline to answer questions until you have spoken with a criminal defense attorney, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Contacting a lawyer as early as possible in the process is crucial, since an attorney can advise you during questioning, represent you at bond hearings, and begin building a defense strategy on your behalf.
How does Colorado handle DUI charges in Arapahoe County?
In Colorado, driving under the influence (DUI) is charged when a driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, while driving while ability impaired (DWAI) is charged at a BAC of 0.05% or higher, under C.R.S. Section 42-4-1301. Penalties for a first DUI offense can include fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, community service, probation, and potential jail time, and they increase substantially for repeat offenses or cases involving injury or death. Arapahoe County courts take DUI matters seriously, and a criminal defense attorney can help you challenge evidence such as breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and the legality of the traffic stop.
What are my rights if I am charged with domestic violence in Colorado?
Under Colorado law, domestic violence is not a standalone charge but rather a sentence enhancer that applies to crimes committed against a person with whom the defendant has or had an intimate relationship, as defined by C.R.S. Section 18-6-800.3. If you are charged with a domestic violence offense, you have the right to legal representation, the right to confront witnesses against you, and the right to present a defense at trial. It is important to understand that Colorado has a mandatory arrest policy in domestic violence situations, meaning that law enforcement is required to make an arrest if there is probable cause, making early legal representation especially important.