Personal Injury Lawyers in Denver | Criminal Defense Attorneys

FAQ on Criminal Law and Personal Injuries in Denver

• If I have been arrested, what are my rights?
• Do I need a Denver criminal defense attorney for minor cases?
• What happens if I am released prior to my trial?
• What steps should I take when I have been injured in an accident?
• How do I determine who was at fault in my accident?
• What is my Denver personal injury claim worth?

If I have been arrested, what are my rights?

Whether for minor or serious charges, the criminal process is complex. If you do not protect your rights, you can be unfairly convicted, costing you a significant sum of money or even your freedom. The most important rights to know are these:

• The right to remain silent. Always keep in mind that anything you say to a law enforcement official or to the prosecuting attorney can be used as evidence against you when your case goes to court.
• The right to an attorney. A Denver criminal defense lawyer should be at your side throughout the arrest process. If you cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to a court-appointed attorney free of charge.

Do I need a Denver criminal defense attorney for minor cases?

While engaging a criminal defense attorney for minor crimes, such as traffic violations and accidents, is not absolutely necessary, you are most likely to achieve the best outcome for your case when a criminal defense lawyer is at your side. When you are involved in a collision, a Denver car accident attorney can help protect your rights, whether it is to protect you from unfair claims if you are at fault, or to make sure you collect fair compensation if the other driver is at fault.

What happens if I am released prior to my trial?

In certain circumstances, which involve your trustworthiness to appear for all court dates and your past criminal history (or lack of one), you may qualify for release prior to trial in the following situations:

• You may qualify to be released on your own recognizance. This is the least restrictive means of release. In this case, no monetary bond is required because the court trusts you to show up for your court dates.
• You might also qualify for pre trial release, which is typically ordered when the court does not require a monetary bond but wants extra conditions such as no contact with a person or place, GPS monitoring, or drug or alcohol testing. In this type of situation, you may be required to check in with the pretrial office as well as the pay certain fees. If you violate any pre-release, you could be rearrested.

What steps should I take when I have been injured in an accident?

When you have been injured by someone else's negligence, always get any required medical attention first. Then, as soon as you are able, contact an experienced personal injury attorney in Denver. You can help protect your rights and help your Denver personal injury lawyer by taking the following steps:

• Write down every detail about the accident. You should record contact information about the negligent party as well as witnesses and all available insurance information. Obtain a police report, if available, and, if the accident is a workers’ compensation issue, make note of the insurance company name and contact information. This type of document is extremely valuable to a Denver car accident attorney.
• Do not make any written or verbal statements to insurance companies or other claims handlers until you have called your Denver injury lawyer, who will make sure your rights are protected.
• Obtain all possible evidence that will prove your injury. Take pictures of the accident scene, if possible. Retain any clothing or damaged property, or anything that might provide evidence for your case.

How do I determine who was at fault in my accident?

To collect on an injury claim in Denver, your Denver personal injury attorney must prove the person who caused the injury was negligent. This can be a complex process, and, if you were partially at fault, it can directly affect the amount that you can recover for your claim.

What is my Denver personal injury claim worth?

Under Colorado law, the person who injured you is responsible for any costs associated with the injury, including (but not limited to) these expenses:

• Any medical expenses, and property expenses, including future ones, incurred as a result of the accident
• All lost work time, which includes the time you must be away for medical and associated time
• All expenses related to caring for you and your home when you are incapacitated
• Any permanent injuries, including disfigurement or disability
• Emotional distress

Your Denver personal injury attorney will know what type of expert witness to hire to best prove your damages.