Criminal Defense Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Attorneys
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"I highly recommend that you not waste your time hiring other attorneys and hire the Gasper Law Group."After an absolutely crazy incident that could not have been seen almost anywhere besides a movie. I received some serious charges and was in search of an attorney. They would not only represent me but need to do the right thing because it's the right thing...- Lance F.
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"If you need legal help use Gasper, ask for Christine I am thankful I did!!!"I don't write many reviews! Gasper Law Group proved to be worthy of my highest recommendation. Everyone at some time will need some legal service, but where to go. I want you to know Gasper Law Group can help you save what you might stand to lose. I really want you to know Christine S. is the finest Family Law Attorney you will find. Christine is experienced, committed to her clients, and will help save what whats most important to you. I would so like the leadership of Gasper Law Group to know how fortunate they are to have a team member of her Caliber. If you need legal help use Gasper, and ask for Christine I am thankful I did!!!- Eric D.
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"Thank you so much! You helped complete our family and we are forever grateful."Christine, Kris, and Ebony are amazing and compassionate. We enjoyed every interaction. Gasper Law firm keeps appropriate communication and not in excess which keeps our cost low. We are so very grateful. Even if an unexpected turn in our guardianship hearing they remained diligent to ensure things were done in a timely manner. Thank you so much! You helped complete our family and we are forever grateful.- Misty M.
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"I was absolutely floored with the knowledge and expertise that not only Caryn carries, but the firm as a whole."I, unfortunately, was involved with two separate situations within a few years of each other, which left me in quite a bind both times. I was lucky enough to have Caryn assist me in both cases and was absolutely floored with the knowledge and expertise that not only she carries, but the firm as a whole. One of the best, if not the best lawyers I've ever come across. Extremely nice and very honest. I was able to resolve my situations with minimal impact and continue my life without fear of being held back.- Former Client
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"The professionalism, guidance, and candor I’ve received from each person in this law firm has been beyond reproach."
I’m not one to have an extensive experience with law firms or lawyers and court in general. However, the professionalism, guidance, and candor I’ve received from each person in this law firm have been beyond reproach. Anytime, I mean, anytime, I’ve had a question about my case and the way forward, I was met with a friendly and constructive conversation about my case. There was never a doubt in my mind, that I made the right choice when I selected this law firm to represent me. Caryn and Stacie have been a wonderful blessing to my life and my legal proceedings. If you are looking for a no-BS law firm that has a significant reputation in the Springs area, I absolutely recommend this one. Even though I hope to not have to deal with this again, fingers crossed and every lucky charm, I’d trust this law firm with my representation to handle the hard stuff and give me ease with court proceedings. Thank you all for what you do and have done for me, my family, and my career. Bless you all.
- Steve S. -
"Attentive and supportive"The Gasper Law Group was fantastic. They treated me well and were very open about my situation. The team was attentive and made sure I fully understood everything, supporting me all the way. I would recommend them to anyone for any situation.- Jason E.
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"If you need any Legal advice or assistance reach out to the Gasper Law Group. 5 star service."Gasper Law Group is great to work with. I recently did Estate Planning and they were awesome. Explained everything thoroughly. Emily, Jack, Therese , Holly, and Emily are all very professional. If you need any Legal advice or assistance reach out to the Gasper Law Group. 5 star service.- Ruby D.
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"Excellent care and representation"The Gasper Law Group took great care of me throughout my legal situation and constantly kept me in the loop. Couldn't ask for better representation!- Ryan L.
Criminal Defense
frequently asked questions
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Can I represent myself in a criminal case?
Yes. You have a Constitutional right to represent yourself. However, there is a saying in the legal business attributed to A. Lincoln: “He who represents himself has a fool for a client.” A person representing themselves cannot provide a truly dispassionate and removed analysis of the case. The attorney will provide analysis based on years of training and experience.
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Do I need to hire an attorney if I plan on pleading guilty?Even in pleading guilty, the sentences may vary greatly and the future impacts on one’s life can be substantial. In pleading guilty, a person may be giving up important or fundamental Constitutional rights.
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What are my rights?You have the right to an attorney or a Public Defender if you qualify. You have the right to testify on your own behalf or remain silent. If you choose not to testify, your silence cannot be held against you. You have the right to a jury trial or trial by the Court. You have the right to a speedy trial. (In Colorado, that is within six months). You have the right to have the prosecution prove each element of each offense beyond a reasonable doubt. You have a right to subpoena witnesses to appear on your behalf at any trial or proceeding. You have the right to cross-examine any witnesses called by the prosecution. You have a right to the presumption of innocence until you have been adjudicated guilty or pled same. Finally, you have the right to appeal your conviction to a higher court.
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I am being investigated for a crime. What do I do?Seek legal advice prior to answering any questions and assert your rights to have an attorney present during any questioning. You may contact an attorney to represent you during any pre-charge investigative process.
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What happens after an arrest?After an arrest, you have a right to a bond in all cases with the exception of capital offenses. Some charges may require you appear before a judge prior to setting bond. This means you may be held in jail for several days prior to securing a release on bond.
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Is there a difference between misdemeanors and felonies?Yes. Misdemeanors are lower level offenses which may carry lesser periods of time in jail and may have a detrimental impact on job futures. Felonies are more serious offenses which may carry prison sentences and impact future job opportunities and/or security clearances, not to mention the right to carry/own a firearm.
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Do I need a lawyer at my arraignment?Typically, arraignment is the time when the Court will set your matter for future proceedings. So, although your case will not be finally decided at your arraignment, it is to your advantage to have your lawyer on board so they may advise you regarding each step of the process.
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Will my case go to trial?The vast majority of cases do not proceed to trial. It is as important to have an attorney who is a skilled negotiator as much as an experienced trial lawyer.
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What is the difference between a dismissal and an expungement/sealing?
A dismissal means your charges have been dropped. However, even if this is the case, your record will still reflect the initial criminal charges. Expungement (juvenile) or Sealing (Adult matters) is a way to limit public access to the original charges themselves.
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State v. Federal Court: What is the difference in criminal defense issues?While the nature of your offenses may be the same, the procedures and the sentencing guidelines may be extremely different. It is important to hire an attorney who is familiar with the Federal system in handling your Federal matter.
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What do I do if there is a warrant out for my arrest?Turn yourself in! You should contact an attorney to make them aware and talk to a bonding agent to make arrangements for a bond.
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What defenses do I have for criminal charges?The most common defenses include: self-defense or defense of others, voluntary or involuntary intoxications, general denial, alibi, duress, entrapment, consent, choice of evils (that is, you needed to commit the crime to avoid a greater evil with no other viable alternatives), or insanity. Consult an attorney for other possible defenses in your matter.