Drug charges can come about in a variety of ways in Colorado. One common circumstance is when the drugs are found during a traffic stop. People who are confronted with allegations of drug possession, drug sales, drug trafficking and more might also be accused of hiding the substances in creative ways. Frequently, law enforcement will find the drugs and make an arrest. While drug crimes are serious, there are avenues that people can use to cobble together an effective defense to avoid the worst possible penalties.
Devising a defense strategy for drug charges
Being accused of a drug crime is a serious matter, as these criminal allegations can carry harsh penalties. Additionally, just being accused of these crimes can impact one's personal and professional reputation. Thus, it is vital to explore defense options, regardless of one's criminal history. This could help reduce the drug charges or even help clear a person's name.
Asserting a strong defense against drug charges
Criminal charges can be rather costly. This not only refers to the costs associated with asserting a defense against the charges, but also encompasses the damages the allegations can have on a person's life. Drug crimes can have a lasting effect on the accused's life, which makes it imperative that individuals in Colorado understand their defense options.
New law in Colorado makes certain drug crimes misdemeanors
Most people in Colorado would agree that certain drugs, like fentanyl, heroin and cocaine are dangerous. For this reason, these drugs are classified as Schedule I or Schedule II drugs, meaning that drug charges involving these substances are more serious than charges for other drugs. However, a new bill has been signed into law that would change the way these substances are treated when it comes to drug crimes.
Colorado Supreme Court issues ruling on drug-sniffing dogs
Under both federal law and Colorado law, a person has rights against unlawful searches and seizures. However, as one recent case shows, what constitutes a lawful search and seizure can be up for debate, especially when it comes to drug crimes.
Colorado House passes bill reducing penalty for drug possession
Colorado is often seen as a pioneer in drug decriminalization efforts, having been the first state in the nation to legalize the recreational use of small amounts of marijuana. A bill recently passed by both the Colorado House and Senate addresses the penalization of certain drug charges that could have a significant effect on Colorado residents.
When is it legal for Coloradans to grow marijuana?
With the legalization of marijuana in Colorado, many residents may want to grow marijuana in their home. However, there are limits on their ability to do so. A violation of homegrown marijuana laws could lead to serious drug charges.
Bill would reduce penalties for drug possession in Colorado
There have been movements across the nation to decriminalize certain drug offenses, or even make possession of certain drugs lawful under certain circumstances. Colorado is one of the leaders in this initiative after it legalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana in 2014. However, some lawmakers want to take such initiatives a step further.
Protect yourself from the harsh consequences of drug charges
Drug offenses are some of the most frequently charged crimes in Colorado. Whether they are possession charges, trafficking charges or manufacturing charges, it goes without saying that a conviction for drug charges could lead to years behind bars. But, your troubles won't end there. Even if you aren't convicted, simply being charged with a drug crime can damage your reputation.
Heroin can lead to federal drug charges; what about cough syrup?
While most people in Colorado know that it is illegal to possess dangerous street drugs, they may be surprised to find out that, under certain circumstances, it is illegal to possess seemingly innocuous drugs, like cough syrup. Federal law recognizes that some drugs are extremely detrimental to one's health and welfare. Thus, when it comes to drug charges, it is important to understand how federal law classifies various drugs based on the danger they pose.