If you have ever thought, “I’ll never need a criminal defense attorney because I’m not a criminal – just an average, everyday citizen!” you are not alone. Most law-abiding people give little thought to criminal attorneys. They figure if they never rob a bank or intend to break serious laws, there will never be a need for legal representation from a criminal lawyer.
Unfortunately, if you one day find yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney despite doing your best to live a clean, law-abiding life, you would also not be alone. There are plenty of people in the Denver Metro Area and throughout the State of Colorado who suddenly find themselves in a dire situation, accused of a crime, and in need of experienced legal support.
Many of these people did not commit the crime for which they were accused. Sometimes, being in the wrong place at the wrong time leaves you in need of a strong defense to protect your freedom. In other instances, a person is guilty of a crime, but there were extenuating circumstances. And of course, sometimes people just make mistakes. There are plenty of good people out there who make a judgment call that backfires and they find themselves mired in the court system. The best thing you can do is hire an experienced criminal attorney to protect your best interest.
What are some of the reasons you might need a criminal attorney?
Speeding Tickets and Other Traffic Violations
Receiving a ticket for a moving violation can be minor, but there are also instances in which the fines are steep. If you believe you have been accused of speeding or breaking another traffic law unjustly, you’d be smart to hire an attorney. The same is true if you did break a law, but the penalty applied seems unreasonable. Even if you are guilty, you do not deserve an unjust punishment.
DUI
Another instance in which a driver can be accused of breaking the law is when he or she is accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The smartest thing you can do is call a designated driver or taxi after you have been drinking, but if you have only had one or two drinks, you might feel sober enough to drive. Unfortunately, making the wrong choice can get you into a lot of trouble and even if you believe you are sober enough to drive, there are instances in which the law shows you are not. Even more frustrating is when the legal evaluation is faulty and shows you to be more intoxicated than you are. If you have been accused of DUI, you need experienced legal representation to help you navigate the court system.
Assault
Assault is a serious charge that can have severe and very harsh punishment including jail and fines. While sometimes physical contact with another person is inevitable especially when you have to defending yourself or another person, you could still be charged with having committed a crime and have to defend your actions. Whether you face misdemeanor or felony allegations, you need legal assistance in presenting your defense and navigating the complex criminal justice system.
Homicide
Homicide is an extremely serious offense and can result in long imprisonment or worse. The average person assumes he or she will never be accused of homicide, but what happens if you are forced to do something in self-defense? You have every right to protect your body and the well-being of those you love, but there are times when law enforcement has a different opinion of your actions. If you are involved in a situation that results in a potential homicide charge, you must contact an experienced lawyer immediately. You need someone with knowledge of the court system working with you to protect your freedom.
If you live in Denver Metro Area or the State of Colorado and you have been accused of a crime, we can help. Contact the experienced legal team at Miller and Steiert, P.C. to help you manage these difficult situations.
