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Facing Drug Crimes Charges in Denver? Suro Law Can Help.

A drug-related crime is a criminal offense that involves the possession, use, sale, manufacture or distribution of an illegal narcotic. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) uses the Controlled Substance Act to provide information on criteria and classification for substances. Even though the state of Colorado and the city of Denver are taking steps toward decriminalizing the use of certain narcotics in certain cases, there are still serious consequences that result from a drug crimes conviction. If you have been charged with a drug offense in Colorado, you will need an experienced drug crime lawyer on your side.

Drug Charges: What Can I Be Charged With?

There are multiple types of drug crimes you can be charged with in Colorado. The most common charges we see are the following:

  • Possession: You are arrested with illegal drugs on your person.
  • Distribution: You are arrested for selling controlled substances to others. 
  • Manufacturing: You are arrested for producing illegal drugs.
  • Possession with Intent to Distribute: You (a) are arrested in possession of illegal drugs and (b) have the intention of selling them.
  • Special Offender: This charge carries harsher penalties and is typically applied to repeat offenders.

If you are facing any of these charges, don’t hesitate to reach out to Suro Law for assistance. David Suro is a skilled drug crime defense lawyer who can ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Penalties for Drug Crime Charges in Colorado

There are two broad categories of drug crime charges in Colorado: felony and misdemeanor. The penalties vary substantially based on the severity of the crime, with felony charges being more serious. The classification usually depends upon the type of drug involved, the amount of the drug in your possession, and the type of drug crime committed.

Misdemeanor Drug Charges

There are two levels of misdemeanor drug charges: DM1 and DM2. Drug use and possession typically fall under the misdemeanor umbrella. The potential penalties for each are as follows.
  • DM1: Minimum fine of $500 and/or 6-month jail sentence. Maximum fine of $5,000 and/or 18-month jail sentence.
  • DM2: These misdemeanor charges typically do not warrant any jail time. However, they do include a minimum fine of $50. Maximum charges include up to $750 in fines and a 12-month jail sentence.

Felony Drug Charges

There are four levels of felony drug charges in Colorado: DF1, DF2, DF3, and DF4. The manufacture, sale, and/or distribution of illegal substances typically fall under one of these felony categories. Penalties can include hefty fines (up to $1 million), imprisonment (up to 32 years), community service, probation, house arrest, and court-ordered drug treatment.
Note that sentences may be enhanced if the defendant has had previous drug-related convictions, has a prior criminal history, or participated in the sale of drugs to minors. In addition, level one drug felonies (DF1) require a prison sentence of at least 8 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Drug-Related Charges in Colorado

While Colorado is known for its progressive stance on drugs, specifically marijuana, charges for drug-related crimes can still be quite severe. The state of Colorado has legalized the use of cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Drugs that remain illegal include: cocaine, heroin, LSD, methamphetamine (meth), steroids, opium, and unauthorized prescription drugs.

These drugs are divided up into five groups, called schedules. Schedule I drugs are penalized most severely, since these substances have the highest risk of abuse; Schedule V drugs, on the other hand, are the least likely to provoke continued dependence and are thus penalized more leniently.

The severity of the penalties in drug-related cases depend on several factors. The following are some of the most common considerations:

  • The type of drug involved
  • The amount of drugs involved
  • Whether you were using, selling, or producing the drug in question
  • Any previous record of drug-related charges
  • Any previous drug treatments you have received
  • Whether you were arrested with a gun or other weapon in your possession
  • Whether you were actually in possession of the drugs (i.e. they were found in a shared space)

If you are facing drug charges, an experienced drug defense lawyer can help analyze the above factors to create an effective strategy tailored to your case. Contact Suro Law today to get started.

The specific defense we use always depends on the unique details of the case at hand. However, some of our most common approaches include the following:

  • The search and seizure was unlawful and violated your Fourth Amendment rights. This is a solid approach if the search occurred without a warrant, consent, or probable cause.
  • The drugs did not actually belong to you. For example, you were in a shared space with the drugs, such as a car or home, but not in possession of them.
  • The drugs are missing. In some cases, the prosecution may not have the physical drugs in question, and as such there may be a lack of evidence necessary to convict.

Of course, every defense looks different and depends on the circumstances surrounding your case. If you are in need of a drug possession lawyer in Denver, reach out to Suro Law today. We will deep dive into the specifics of your situation and create an impactful defense strategy.

Public legal representation is a constitutional right in Colorado; however, we highly recommend hiring a private attorney to represent you in your drug crimes case. Entrusting your defense to Suro Law ensures the following: personalized attention, specialization in cases like yours, a proactive approach, access to time and resources, the ability to adeptly navigate plea negotiations, and extensive trial experience.

Investing in Suro Law is an investment in your future. We are dedicated to safeguarding your rights, mitigating consequences, and striving for the best possible resolution for the duration of your case. Don’t leave your future to chance; reach out today to get started.

Denver Drug Crimes Attorney: Suro Law Can Help

At Suro Law, we believe that no one should have to endure the legal process alone. No matter the specifics of your case, our Denver drug crime lawyer can support you every step of the way. We are committed to personalized and effective defense strategies that will give you the very best chances at success.

 

If you are looking for a drug defense lawyer near you, look no further than Suro Law. Get started today with a FREE consultation, during which we will delve into the specifics of your unique situation.

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