Consider Zweig Law PC, Attorneys at Law. Based in Summit County and representing clients across a broad region, we are committed to defending individuals facing all types of felony and misdemeanor allegations, including:

• Drunk driving/DUI/DWI/DWAI
• Domestic violence
• Drug crimes

An arrest does not guarantee a conviction. The government is required to prove every part of its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Through careful investigation and analysis, we will identify all possible defenses in order to find the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Our effort and ability give our clients the best chance of achieving a positive outcome, whether it is a dismissal of some or all charges, a plea agreement that minimizes the consequences you face, or success in trial.

What You Need To Know About Legalization Of Marijuana

The recent legalization of marijuana in Colorado has dramatically changed the criminal justice system. Despite the legalization of this drug, there are still limits as to how much marijuana a person may legally own. In addition, you must be 21 to possess marijuana and use must be at home, not in public. Furthermore, individuals can still be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while ability impaired (DWAI). If you have been charged with any marijuana-related offenses, we stand ready to help.

I Have Been Contacted By Police. They Want a Statement. Now What?

You have almost certainly heard “You have the right to remain silent.” This right is well known, but equally misunderstood. Basically, this is known as the Miranda Law and means that you cannot be forced to make a statement to police. Regardless of how many times you are asked, or what is being said, you have the right to remain silent. This right applies to any charge related to any criminal case. This is true also if you have been arrested and charged, or if there is surmounting evidence against you. As a criminal defense lawyer, we would recommend invoking this right at all times. 

Should You Make a Statement

If you are being investigated, you might be contacted by a police officer or a detective. They might ask you to make a statement. In general, you should hire a criminal defense lawyer before doing so. Let your lawyer make a decision about whether or not this should be done, and how. 

Why You Should Decline

One of the biggest misconceptions about criminal law is that the police can “guarantee” you a better “deal”, if you cooperate and confess your guilt. This is even how it plays out on TV. In reality, only the prosecutor can offer a deal such as a plea bargain or immunity. Police can talk the talk, but they cannot walk the walk. This is very important to remember!

Once a plea agreement has been made between the prosecutor and defendant, it will be up to him or her to agree to plead guilty or no contest. In exchange for this deal, the prosecutor agrees to dropping one or more charges, recommending a certain sentence to the judge, or reducing the charge to something less serious. Part of the reason for these agreements is that the criminal courts are very busy. A prosecutor may wish to move cases swiftly through the system; thus, are prepared to offer deals to defendants. Another benefit of this is that if a deal is taken, the case generally doesn’t go to trial. A trial requires extensive time, preparation, and the need to convince a jury that the defendant is guilty. If there is any unreasonable doubt, the prosecutor could risk everything. That being said, taking a deal is not always the right choice. Even if you are thinking about doing so, you should absolutely call a criminal defense lawyer. 

Reasons to Avoid Speaking to Police

There are many reasons to not speak with police. Some of these include:

• You risk sharing unnecessary information that could damage your case
• You risk incriminating yourself
• You risk making a mistake that could then be taken as a lie
• You risk making a statement that is taken out of context

It is also not easy to repeat the same story twice, and in the same way, even when it is the truth. One small change of detail might encourage the investigators to dig deeper, and even go as far as to intimidate you. Your credibility could be at risk. 

As a criminal defense lawyer, we would encourage you to avoid speaking with the police, investigators, or anyone involved in your case until you have spoken with a criminal defense lawyer. 

Contact Zweig Law PC, Attorneys at Law

If you have been charged with a crime, take action and contact our law firm through our online intake form or by calling 970-986-6863.