Drug Charges Lawyer in Denver, Colorado: Protecting Your Future with Wolf Law

If you’re facing drug charges in Colorado, you have a right to qualified representation no matter how severe the offense.

The drug defense lawyers at Wolf Law handle a wide range of drug-related cases, including drug possession and drug trafficking offenses involving six of the most heavily trafficked drugs—methamphetamine, powder cocaine, marijuana, crack cocaine, heroin and oxycodone—as well as other controlled substances.

To learn more about your options following a Colorado drug arrest, please call Wolf Law at 720-479-8574 for a free case evaluation.

Colorado’s Drug Laws and Statistics

According to the U.S. Sentencing Commission, drug offenses are the most common type of federal case; drug charges represented almost one-third of all cases reported to the commission in 2015. Of these drug offenses, nearly 90 percent involved drug trafficking charges.

Colorado’s Amendment 64 was enacted in November 2012 and allows for personal possession, cultivation, and private use of marijuana for those 21 years of age and older.

Following the adoption of Amendment 64, marijuana-related charges reduced statewide (not including Denver) by 80 percent from 2010 to 2014; and all drug charges are down 23 percent respectively. The Denver Department of Safety reported a 77 percent reduction in marijuana possession offenses from 2012 to 2014.

Today, marijuana drug possession charges are namely defined by an amount in excess of 1 ounce, which is the legal limit a person may purchase from a retail marijuana store.

Colorado Drug Schedule Classifications

Drug classes arranged by federal categorization

Colorado state statutes and the Denver Revised Municipal Code outline laws and penalties for specific drug violations.

Drug classification determines how drug offenses are categorized and sentenced. Controlled substances are defined under federal drug “schedules,” which are categorized by risk of addiction:

Schedule I drugs are considered most dangerous, highly addictive, and have “no legitimate medical use.” Schedule I drugs include controlled substances such as heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and marijuana.
Schedule II drugs are considered addictive but may offer some redeeming medicinal properties. Common schedule II drugs include morphine, codeine, and Adderall.
Schedule III drugs are considered less dangerous than those in schedules II and I. These drugs may include combination products like Vicodin, or non-narcotics like ketamine.

In Colorado, all drug possession charges are classified by schedule, with the exception of marijuana. Drugs like codeine, and other common pain medications, may be possessed lawfully with a valid prescription.

Types of Drug Charges in Colorado

Colorado has a variety of drug charges that range from minor offenses to severe felonies. Each charge requires a tailored approach for the best defense. Here are some common drug-related offenses in Colorado:

Drug Possession
Possession charges depend on the type and amount of drug involved. Colorado distinguishes between personal-use quantities and larger amounts that may imply intent to distribute.
Possession with Intent to Distribute
This charge applies when someone is found with a quantity of drugs or paraphernalia that suggests distribution or sale.
Drug Manufacturing
Manufacturing charges typically apply to those accused of growing, processing, or producing illegal substances. Penalties can be severe, especially for large-scale operations.
Drug Trafficking
Trafficking refers to the transport and sale of illegal drugs and is a serious felony offense. Charges may apply at state or federal levels.
Prescription Drug Fraud
Misuse or distribution of prescription drugs, including forging prescriptions, is treated with significant legal consequences in Colorado.

Drug Laws in Colorado: What You Need to Know

Colorado’s drug laws cover controlled substances in various “schedules,” ranking from Schedule I (most dangerous and addictive) to Schedule V (lower potential for abuse). Colorado’s laws can be strict on drugs like methamphetamine, heroin, and certain prescription medications. Marijuana laws differ, as possession and use are legal in specific amounts, but penalties still apply for unauthorized distribution or large quantities.

Colorado Drug Crime Penalties and Sentencing

Convictions can bring a range of penalties depending on the charge’s severity, including:

Fines: Minor possession charges might result in a fine, while trafficking can lead to thousands of dollars in penalties.
Jail or Prison Time: Certain felonies carry mandatory minimum sentences.
Probation and Community Service: Often assigned for a lesser drug offense.
Permanent Criminal Record: Drug convictions can create significant barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Colorado drug penalties depend on the offense or act committed, the type of drug, and the drug amount. Generally, all Colorado drug cases fall into three categories:

Petty offenses are punishable by the fine amount assigned to the offense in the Colorado Code. Petty drug offenses include things like public consumption of marijuana or illegal possession of drug paraphernalia.
Misdemeanors are more serious than petty offenses but less serious than felonies. Drug misdemeanors are either DM1 or DM2.
- DM1: These misdemeanors are the more serious offenses. Examples of a DM1 offense include distribution, manufacturing, or possession with intent to distribute; or cultivation of less than 6 marijuana plants.
  - Penalties for these offenses range from 6 to 18 months in jail and/or a fine up to $5,000.
- DM2: These misdemeanors are less serious than DM1 charges. Examples of a DM2 offense include abusing toxic vapors, use or illegal possession of synthetic cannabinoids, and possession of 2 to 6 ounces of marijuana.
  - Penalties for DM2 offenses range from 0 to 12 months in jail and/or a fine up to $750.
Felonies are the most serious drug crimes and are punishable by lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. In Colorado, drug felonies have four levels:
- DF1: Examples of a DF1 offense include the distribution of any amount of schedule I or schedule II controlled substances to a minor (if the adult is at least 2 years older than the minor); or the distribution of ANY material that has specific amounts of schedule I or II controlled substance combined.
  - Penalties include mandatory minimum sentencing from 8 years up to 32 years and fines up to $1 million.
- DF2: An example of a DF2 offense includes the distribution of any amount of schedule III or schedule IV controlled substance to a minor (if the adult is at least 2 years older than the minor).
  - Penalties include sentencing from 4 up to 8 years and fines up to $750,000.
- DF3: A level 3 drug felony might include distribution of any material that weighs 14 grams or less, and the material contains a schedule I or II controlled substance.
  - Penalties include sentencing from 2 up to 4 years and fines up to $500,000.
- DF4: Level 4 drug felonies are categorized as DF3 except when distribution is for the purpose of sharing use of drugs at “a time substantially contemporaneous” with the exchange of drugs.
  - Penalties include sentencing from 6 up to 12 months and fines up to $100,000.

Sentencing is also determined by a range of factors that can be either “presumptive” or “aggravated.”

Presumptive sentencing is most common and the default sentencing range; however, aggravating factors, such as the offender’s criminal history, parole status, etc., may persuade a judge to apply an aggravated sentence, which favors tougher sentencing and fine requirements.

A trial by jury is available to people who are charged with a Colorado drug crime. For first- and second-time drug offenders, Colorado has implemented special “drug courts” where defendants can enter into treatment programs in lieu of fulfilling a sentence.

Common Defenses for Drug Crimes in Colorado

Wolf Law has years of experience crafting successful drug defense strategies for clients charged for drug crimes. Potential defenses include:

Unlawful Search and Seizure
Evidence obtained illegally (without a valid warrant) can sometimes be excluded from the case, weakening the prosecution’s stance.
Lack of Knowledge
This defense may apply if the accused was unaware of the drug’s presence, often in shared spaces or vehicles.
Entrapment
If law enforcement officers encouraged or coerced someone into committing a crime they otherwise wouldn’t have, this can be a valid defense.
Lab Analysis Challenges
Challenging the identification and quantity of the substance in question can sometimes lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
Insufficient Evidence
Without clear proof of possession or intent, charges may be dismissed or reduced.

How Wolf Law Advocates for Clients Involved in Drug Crimes

At Wolf Law, we understand that drug crimes are complex and each case is unique. Our team thoroughly investigates every aspect of a case, challenges evidence, and negotiates skillfully to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible. Our clients benefit from:

Personalized Defense Strategies
Transparent Communication
Dedicated, Aggressive Representation

Why Choose Wolf Law for Your Defense?

Denver-Based, Colorado-Focused Knowledge:
With deep knowledge of Colorado’s criminal justice system, we are ready to fight for your rights.
Proven Track Record of Success:
Our team has secured numerous favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges, from dropped charges to minimized penalties.
Comprehensive Client Support:
Wolf Law prioritizes open, supportive communication with every client. We are here to answer questions, explain options, and offer compassionate guidance every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Charges in Colorado

Can drug charges be dropped?
Yes, with strong legal representation and proper drug defense attorneys, charges may be reduced or dismissed based on evidence, procedural errors, or negotiations.
What should I do if I’m arrested for drug possession?
Stay calm, don’t resist, and refrain from discussing details with police until your drug defense attorney is present.
What is drug court, and do I qualify?
Drug court is an alternative to traditional prosecution for non-violent drug offenders. It emphasizes treatment and rehabilitation, but eligibility depends on several factors.
Is marijuana possession still a chargeable offense in Colorado?
Small amounts for personal use are legal, but unlicensed distribution or large amounts can lead to charges.

Get the Drug Defense Lawyer You Deserve

Everyone makes mistakes, and sometimes bad things happen to good people.

Colorado drug laws are complicated, but we can help. Knowing who to call, when to call them, and what not to say to law enforcement is the first step in building your defense if you are charged for any type of drug crimes.

What you don’t know about Colorado’s drug laws can hurt you. When you need a Denver criminal defense lawyer, you need Wolf Law.Call our law firm at 720-479-8574 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.

Drug cases are one area of the law, where you can really be charged at any level. You can be charged at the petty offense level in municipal court, at the misdemeanor level in county court or at the felony level in the district court. All of those charges can come with different sets of penalties and it’s important to have an attorney who understands the difference. At Wolf Law I handle all types of cases and drug classifications from pills, marijuana, heroin, cocaine, any drug offense that you have and any type of charge you’ve accrued, from any type of drug there is, at Wolf Law I can handle that type of case. It’s important to have an attorney who understands the drug laws, understands search and seizure law, which is so huge in drug cases and that’s something I do for my clients. I understand that sometimes my clients are dealing with dependency issues; addiction, things like that. And those are things that need to be handled sensitively, delicately, but not ignored. Too many lawyers go in with a blunt instrument, rather than coming in with a scalpel to try and deal with dependency and addiction issues, make the judge aware of it, make the prosecutor aware of it, and get someone the treatment they need. At Wolf Law, I always want to make sure that when you come in, I understand what’s going on in your life, what’s caused the issue to happen and try to find a way to help you.

Featured Blogs

Certifications

Testimonials

The BEST person to have at your side

When I sat in my car that day, fear twisting into nausea, frantically scrolling through an endless sea of lawyer ads. I had no idea who to trust. I chose Jeff. He looked like an angry guard dog—and in that moment, I needed that.

Over the next three years, I learned he was far more than that. He never gave false hope; anything he told me, he could defend. I paid him once—one upfront fee—and he stayed with me the entire three years. He called with updates, stayed on top of every detail, and fought for me at every turn.

I can’t say your case will be like mine, but the fear and terror I lived with for three years were dramatically reduced by having Jeff in my corner. I’d never been in a legal situation before. He guided me with expertise, calmness, and total honesty. Looking back on that version of me frantic, in my car, hiring Jeff Wolf was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

And that angry guard dog look? It hides a genuinely warm and caring person.

— Steve G

6-Month Jail Sentence Reduced to 90 Days

I was arrested in May 2014 for a warrant that I had since 2010 for DUR, I was facing a six month jail sentence that would have caused me to lose my business, home, as well as once again re-offend me. After countless calls and conversations and meetings with numerous attorneys I was referred to Jeffery Wolf. By simply speaking with him over the phone I felt a little at ease, until I met with him and after that I was completely at ease. He made feel the way an attorney is suppose to make a client feel. He was extremely personable, caring, honest, completely honest, and very detailed as to what his process is and what will take place in court.

On the day of my hearing Jeff arrived a little early and had me wait in the hallway while he stepped into the court room and went to bat for me. The result was a 0 point violation allowing me to keep my DL, a six-month jail sentence reduced to 90 days in-home detention, and a $67 fine, which was way more than I expected.

I highly recommend Jeff he is an excellent attorney that takes your case as serious as you do. I hope I never have to hire an attorney again but if I do without a doubt Jeffrey Wolf will be my first and only thought.

— David

Jeffrey Wolf is Everything You Could Hope for in a Defense Attorney

When a tragic situation affected our family, we immediately contacted Jeffery Wolf. We were comforted knowing that we had a knowledgeable, communicative and compassionate attorney on our side. He often answered our calls after-hours and always stayed with us after court appearances to answer all our questions. During busy times, he would be sure to send a quick note letting us know when he would get back to us and never left us wondering if he had received our inquiries. Beyond being confident that we had the best representation possible, we also knew that Jeffery really cared about us and in fact, he became an honorary member of our family. He was open and honest with us and the DA in order to come up with the best, most fair agreement. We were never left wondering what was going on or what was going to happen. We knew that Jeffery would fight for us as hard and for as long as it took. It felt wonderful knowing that we had Jeffery in our corner. Hopefully we will never need his services again, but if we do, he will be our first call. We highly recommend Jeffery Wolf for anyone who needs a lawyer and wants the best.

— Jenni DeWitt Walker

APPRECIATION

I would like to place on record the immense appreciation for Ms Colleen Kelly, Partner at Wolf Law LCC. I had an opportunity as a Solicitor to interact with her on behalf of one of my clients in a DV Matter. Her professionalism and knowledge of law is absolutely outstanding. She is extremely honest and straightforward in her legal advice. She always keeps the interest of the client a priority and safe guards the interest of the client at all times. She is an asset to the legal team and adds value with her expertise and knowledge.

— Nirvikar Singh, Advocate Supreme Court of India

Wolf Law is Well Worth the Investment

Thanks to Jeff Wolf I had the ideal outcome on my case, whereas without any representation it would’ve been a less than desirable outcome without me even fully knowing my options. He was extremely informative and thorough; it was clear that not only did he know what to do for every scenario but I was confident that he would make it happen, which he did. Very personable and easy to trust, I highly recommend Jeff and Wolf Law.

— Jeff H.

Jeff Wolf was Well Worth the Investment

When you get charged with a crime it is tough to deal with, mostly because you are embarrassed and disappointed with yourself for what you have done. I was charged with theft and was very worried about what type of impact that would have on my business professional career when applying for jobs. I contacted a few lawyers but knew that Jeff was the right direction to take. He made me feel more at ease knowing that people make mistakes and that this would not effect my whole life. He was very helpful and quick to respond to any questions or concerns that I had.

During my time with Jeff he made me feel very comfortable and I knew going into everything what to expect, what to say, and how to present myself. Whether you hire a lawyer or not is your own decision. But to me what Jeff was able to provide was well worth it. I literally told him my story, how I felt and what type of outcome I was looking for on the first day. Besides showing up with him to court he did everything else and took care of everything. We were sentenced to the verdict that we were looking for and now I can move forward and put this case behind me. Thanks for all your help Jeff it was much appreciated.

— Nick

Incredible Representation

I cant say enough positive things about my experience with Jeff Wolf. This was my first time needing a lawyer for representation, and Jeff made me feel informed and secure throughout the whole process. I couldn’t have asked for a better person on my side. He was able to navigate me thru a stressful time and it meant the world to me. He was great with DA; calm, but firm and determined to get me the best possible result. Also, the presiding judge clearly thought highly of Jeff Wolf. I would highly recommend Jeff Wolf to anyone looking for legal representation.

— Kierlyn C

Great results. Great to work with.

I had an amazing experience working with Wolf Law, and specifically Cassandra Monahan. I was involved in a car accident and Miss Monahan not only got the ticket dismissed, but did it quickly and effectively. Moreover, she was great to work with, showing a genuine care for me and my case. I would highly recommend Wolf Law and Cassandra for anyone who needs representation with respect and results!

— Rob T.

Amazing Service and Representation

I had the pleasure of working with Cassandra on a petition I was making to the court. Cassandra’s representation was amazing. She communicated exactly what would be required of me. She set realistic expectations of how the process would work and kept me updated on where my petition was i the judicial process. I give Cassandra Monahan and Wolf Law my highest recommendation if you need someone on your side in the judicial system.

Thank you Cassandra for everything you did. I appreciate you!!!

— Mark J.

Highly Recommended

First of all, I would like to thank Colleen Kelley and all the staff at Wolf Law for helping me greatly with my legal matters. I called and was able to get consulted that same day, and the prices are very manageable. Colleen did an awesome job and took her time reviewing all the evidence and negotiating with the DA. In my first case she was able to get the charges completely dismissed, which was very impressive. I had a second case where she got me a deferred judgment deal, which was great considering the charges pending. I am very pleased with her efforts and time spent working on my case. Again, I would highly recommend Wolf Law, giving them 5/5 stars!

— Michael