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24 Sep, 2020 by Jeff
I contacted Kip to represent me for a domestic violence charge. Colorado law requires mandatory arrest(s) be made if there is a 911 call related to domestic violence. That arrest happened to be me even though I was the one that walked into the police station to fill out a report. Ironically I was never allowed to complete my report before taken into custody. There was never intent to file charges from either parties involved but Colorado law rarely dismisses a case once there is an arrest. I thought about representing myself but these are serious charges and I wanted the best to represent me. I found Kip online and his great reviews convinced me to pick up the phone and call. I'm glad I did. Kip was great. He was very professional and helpful. He explained things to me and worked hard on my case. He negotiated a very generous plea agreement but I have a hard time agreeing to something that in my opinion is untrue and unfair. I rejected the plea agreement and wanted to exercise my right to a fair trial. KIP is amazing at what he does and was honest about his litigation Comfort level. He understood and respected my position and suggested I hire an attorney that specializes in trial litigation. He did a great job for me and I felt that he truly cared and put in the extra effort. Thank you Kip
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20 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
From my first contact with Kip; he was totally professional. He went above and beyond expectations. Always upfront with his advice and opinion in regards to my case. Constantly updating me with information, quick to answer any phone calls and or emails. I would recommend him to anyone that needs representation. Has an unbelievable relationship with the DA's in Glenwood Springs. Kip you saved me... thanks again.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Steve
You absolutely cannot go wrong hiring Kip O’Connor as your attorney and is easily the best attorney I’ve ever dealt with. His kindness, honesty, attention to detail, legal acumen, and respect he engenders from the D.A. and local judicial system is priceless. His prices were exceedingly fair and upfront. Throughout the case Kip was always available by phone or email and promptly responded. During the hearing Kip was well prepared, presented my case wonderfully, and was able to get an outstanding plea bargain. I cannot recommend Kip highly enough-my family will forever be deeply indebted to him and his assistance.
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05 May, 2020 by Timothy
She helped me with custody for my daughter. She explains EVERYTHING to me so I could understand better that the judge said, she did a lot of the paperwork her self on her time or explained it so that it was easy and I could just get it done. She is super sweet and is a great person!!
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08 May, 2015 by Cassie
We hired Erin Richards to assist us with a friend who was slated quickly for removal from this country. Through her amazing knowledge of immigration law, attention to detail and determination she worked quickly to create hope for us when we had given up in ever seeing our good friend again. His case is ongoing, but for now he remains in this country because of Erin. I would recommend her, and the entire firm above all others.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Michele
Excellent lawyer and wonderful person. I highly recommend Jeff Cheney to handle any civil dispute. He resolved a difficult case with his even-handed approach and reached a result that was right and fair.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Bumble
The Honorable Judge Norrdin ruled on my plea to extend the time to file my notice of appeal not less than or more than a month and one half after I had filed the notice of appeal with both courts of Garfield County Colorado and decided upon the discretion of the 9th judicial district courts to deny the extension of time to file because the 500 dollar bond that the senior judge ordered after trial wasn't the same 500 dollars paid to the county clerk in Rifle colorado that was given to the plaintiffs attorney who is actually the town persecutor for attorney fees. After not receiving the transcripts for the designation of appeal that had been sent twice to the trial court well before the 42 days for the clerk to "TIMELY" put together the designation which to this day is just a myth among the clerks of any court in the county just like any average participants chance at listening to the recorded proceedings to use his less than elite intellectual range to decipher what was said or redacted by the transcriptionist. The denial of the right to appeal was followed by no notice before or after to the wannabe appellant who found out by being evicted while he was in any calculable construed concept or recitation of law entitled too and had a stay of execution from any malicious and vindictive motions by the town persecutor " aka plaintiffs attorney" who by the way is the only person to allege the appeal was denied and the time deadlines had past in an imaginary yet effective approach to amended rules in the state. The final grace the elites granted by their mercy was a document denying something like an active appeal for not paying the appeal bond that was ordered and paid for ,posted and subsequently given to the town persecutor while the transcripts that had been paid for were used to pad all the average minded commoners belongings that a fake AtoB moving company that's office is were you go to take pee pee tests and dui classes, so whoever might want to fill a truck or big van with 30000$ dollars worth of tolls , bikes , sewing machines, automotive parts like shocks and filters , fly fishing equipment , 5 tvs , motorcycle gear , personal Helmut and chest gear. Needless to say the honorable judge Norrdin did everything that a desk cop who took 1.5 million Dollars from the people of Oakland because she wasn't happy about her not being welcome by the officers there she was brought in to reprimand and discipline like fraternity boys on a girl's gone to private school in Memphis. Lost the little bit I could salvage from the wreckage of over pursued judiciacial interference since Marijuana could land your kid in institution for two years and a life time of supervised probation that warranted jail time for growing up and making mistakes. I can still whistle the Andy Griffith show intro but heaven forbid in all the great quoirs that sing there in the presence of the holy some lower form of average brain who shouldn't make eye contact with the esquires of the self proclaimed elite speak out of turn or shake the silky hands of them who know nothing of the callus that comes from indentured servitude imposed by oppression and the fiat penance afforded by submission beneath the boots of tyrannical incorporated extortion the people through violence, forced family segregation , social indoctrination embedded in every government educational system and gastapo brown shirt intimidation by the peers of society who are rewarded by caring a gun and wearing a uniform to disguise the the true purpose of local law enforcement which is to generate revenue while spreading anxiety and paranoia. You can always count on the double standard blatantly shown within a biast hiarchy and that's what the world has come to expect with no rabble of dissidents or protest. For sure I appreciate losing everything I used to make a living and feed my family because of something as minute as communication between courts when it comes down to the peasants strife and right
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17 Apr, 2019 by Cassie
We hired Chad Barsness to assist in a sticky civil matter regarding a business partnership gone wrong. Theft and elder abuse had occurred and appeared to be sanctioned by opposing counsel. While emotions ran high Chad kept us calm and convinced us to try mediation before filing a civil lawsuit. Chad, Kristine, Gay and Jan prepped for mediation on all fronts; reading the mediation statement brought tears to my eyes. This matter required a unique mediator and Chad's suggestion as to whom to use was perfect. While we did not walk away with everything we wanted we have enough to ensure quality of life for years to come and we avoided a costly, and emotionally draining, civil lawsuit. Chad's billing was reasonable and he and his staff kept us informed every step of the way, especially when they knew the updates would cause us pain. There is no need to hire a civil attorney out of Denver or Grand Junction when you have the best, Chad Barsness, right here in Glenwood Springs.
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09 Nov, 2013 by Ned carter,
Dennis Walters represented me in one of the hardest (according to Dennis) divorce/custody) cases he has ever tried. My wife used every dirty trick in the book, from restraining order to accusations (2 months later) of sexual abuse of our little kids...once we were almost all the way through (11+ month) the judge used the term "NUCLEAR BOMB" in reference to, were the allegations mother had made true or mother's NUCLEAR BOMB" TO KEEP FATHER FROM SEEING HIS KIDS! MOTHER'S ACCUSATION was much stronger that a NUCLEAR BOMB, it was a HYDROGEN BOMB, obliterating absolutely everything! I have been treated worse that a convicted pedophile (no charges were ever filed and I cooperated fully on all fronts) my rights to my kids, house (4000 sq' 9 miles from Aspen, CO), property, tools (unable to make a living), guns (constitutional right), and my life and reputation have been taken away due only to Mother's accusation. She Amy Carter BSN Aspen Valley Hospital was arrested 2/13/2004 for domestic violence against me (she called 911)...she turned the tables and used/abused the system and Aspen Response for Women coached he how to lie TO GET THE DESIRED RESULTS. It is hurting the kids, she wants to be vindictive against me. She has only allowed me to see our 5 y.o. boy and our 3 y.o. girl for 49 hours in the past 11 months, AND I WAS THE STAY AT HOME DAD! Dennis and I have had a difficult up hill battle to the tune of $54,000 in 11 months....we are currently waiting for the judge Daniel Petre to decide final orders. Judge Petre is very busy, seems very good, honest, and thorough and has given him self until 1/21/2014 to decide this very difficult divorce. Amy Carter does not let my parents speak to the kids, but her mother "talks to them 2 or 3 times a week". That is a direct quote jOYCE, AMY'S MOTHER form testimony. Dennis WALTERS HAS DONE THE BEST HE CAN, AN EXCELLENT JOB, AND WE HOPE JUSTICE WILL PREVAIL! I AM waiting to see if we have a justice system, a legal system, or a LEGAL EXTORTION SYSTEM?
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17 Sep, 2024 by Angel cruz
Kip exceeded my expectations with my case. I felt in good hands from the beginning. He will do his best to create the best possible scenario and will always keep you updated with any changes. Definitely recommended!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Pete heinke
Scott Troxell represented our son on several very serious charges. His professionalism, thoroughness and preparation were extraordinary and we would highly recommend his services.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Vania martinez
Heidi is amazing! 🥹 she represented me so well! Words can’t explain how grateful I am!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Angel cruz
Kip exceeded my expectations with my case. I felt in good hands from the beginning. He will do his best to create the best possible scenario and will always keep you updated with any changes. Definitely recommended!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Pete heinke
Scott Troxell represented our son on several very serious charges. His professionalism, thoroughness and preparation were extraordinary and we would highly recommend his services.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Vania martinez
Heidi is amazing! 🥹 she represented me so well! Words can’t explain how grateful I am!
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19 Nov, 2023 by Spencer christensen
Erin was totally fantastic in helping give me professional legal advice, which is always sorely needed. She helped to give peace of mind and assurances in some unique situations my girlfriend and I have had. Thanks Erin!
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24 Apr, 2023 by Kaleb huffman
Never heard of them until I got two fraudulent charges from them back to back this morning. They were declined because I keep my card locked for this reason, but trying to charge someone $60 twice 6 minutes after is shady as hell. Maybe this lawyer needs to retain done legal counsel.
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07 Dec, 2022 by Victoria le doux
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03 Apr, 2024 by Amy lee
I consulted with Attorney Ray on several complicated issues that involved nuanced bankruptcy and family law matters. She had an abundance of knowledge and I felt safe and informed after our meetings. I highly recommend her if you are looking for an established attorney that fights for her clients, knows what she is doing, and is up-to-date with the changes in law.
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21 Jan, 2022 by Carrie
Diana made my bankruptcy so simple and fast. It was over before I knew it! I had many questions and she had many truthful answers. I was left with no uncertainties. Thanks guys!!!
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10 Jan, 2022 by Alex damaso
Diana and Riichlyn were always professional, attentive and helpful throughout my Chaper 7 process. I'm pleased with the results and grateful for Diana's invalueble guidance through it all. Superb Attorney! Thanks!
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23 Feb, 2018 by Mary
I personally thought she was fighting for me but i found out after not only losing one case but the same case in appeals court only she didn't even notify me, she didnt ask if i wanted to take the next step, she didnt even email me back and it has been over 3 months now. I had to find out when calling the county courthouse that there was a ruling on that appeal which i al never recieved copies of anything she filed.
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What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction.
  4. How many cases have you taken to trial?
    While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial.
  5. Who will handle my case?
    Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work.
  6. How do you communicate with your clients?
    Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
  • Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
  • Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

  • Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
  • Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
  • List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
  • Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

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