Drug Charges

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

man smoking marijuana — If you’re facing drug charges, the Denver criminal defense attorneys at Wolf Law are here to help.

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.

Compassionate Denver Drug Defense Lawyers

Drug charges often involve addiction, dependency, and abuse. At Wolf Law, we understand the sensitivity of drug crimes and how drug charges impact families and the community at large.

While other drug defense attorneys in Denver may approach drug charges with a hatchet, we prefer a scalpel; this ensures every client gets the help they need, the representation they deserve, and a fair trial.

We take every step to ensure relevant details are made clear to the judge, the prosecutor, and the jury. The social, economic, and cultural complexities of a Denver drug case should not be ignored.

Denver has distinct racial disparities among marijuana charges, which have remained constant despite Amendment 64, including a disproportionate number of offenses correlating public consumption and people of color.

If you have questions related to drug charges, we can help. Call 720-479-8574 for a free case evaluation.

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.

Colorado Drug Crime Penalties and Sentencing

Colorado drug penalties depend on the offense or act committed, the type of drug, and the drug amount involved in the charges. Generally, all Colorado drug charges fall into three categories: petty offenses, misdemeanors, and felonies.

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 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 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 offenses 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.

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.

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.

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Testimonials

My Experience with Wolf Law

I am nothing but pleased with the service, trustworthiness, advice, compassion, and hard work that Wolf Law has provided me with. My case lasted for about six months in 2019. I had charges regarding the developing laws concerning marijuana in Colorado. Originally I wasted four months with a lawyer who made the already stressful and unfortunate situation ever more challenging and miserable. It was a blessing to meet Jeff! He was able to reach a resolution with the Colorado Springs DA that would allow me to have a chance in the future. Every step of the way he was patient, present, persistent, and a pleasure to work with. I drove all the way from Colorado Springs to find a lawyer that would fight for justice to the best of their ability and Jeff Wolf was that person – a person who cares about his clients and their lives. He did his job without judgment and exuded understanding and encouragement throughout. It is difficult to find people who are willing to genuinely help others and keep them positive. My hope is that if you find yourself in a situation where you are seeking legal counsel, please give Jeff’s firm a call. I cannot thank him enough for his kindness and work through this difficult time.

— S.M.

Recommendation

I would highly recommend the Wolf Law Team for your legal needs. In my case, Colleen handled our legal needs in an expeditious, professional manner. She was very knowledgeable and understanding.

— Gerald W Hardesty

Would Have Been Lost Without Wolf Law

I was charged with my first DUI and was referred to Jeff by a friend of mine. He gave me a realistic expectation of what would happen and is an expert at navigating the process. Jeff is always incredibly quick to respond and is very knowledgeable. He is professional and represented me well in the courtroom. The experience of being charged with a DUI is a terrible, humiliating and challenging event – having an experienced attorney was priceless!

— Anonymous

A Great Help in a Time of Turbulence

After being convicted of a DUI for marijuana, I quickly searched for an attorney. I chose to contact Wolf Law first because of the certifications and positive reviews that I saw. I am very glad that I made this choice. This was my first time in trouble with the law, so I didn’t quite know how to handle the situation, but with just a few meetings, phone calls, and emails I felt confident towards the resolution of my issues. Jeff explained everything thoroughly and made sure I knew everything I needed to know and more. I personally needed only a few meetings and talks, but I know that Jeff would be glad to meet or talk as much as necessary. He is clearly very passionate about his work and is a well of legal knowledge. I began with several charges and seeing an overwhelmingly bad outcome in my future, but as Jeff and Wolf Law fought for me, the charges faded away until only one remained and even it was reduced. I left with what I view as the best possible outcome for my given situation. Wolf Law not only helped mitigate the consequences of my mistake, but also granted me great comfort and guidance through the whole experience.

— Bryan C.

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

Expedient, Thorough and Effective

Fortunately, I don’t find myself needing legal representation often…only once before have I needed an attorney. My situation was interesting…I was given a disorderly conduct summons and felt it was far beyond the pale in terms of its validity. I didn’t want this on my record and needed help navigating the legal process. I did some research on a few attorneys and read about Jeff Wolf’s practice. I called Jeff and we spoke the same day. He listened to me and I met with him a few days later. He took the time to explain his process and approach, which made sense to me and seemed to be in the right dollar range for what we were dealing with. Thankfully, my case was dismissed. Jeff took the time to show the DA that there were inconsistencies all over the place and that there was no way I was guilty…likely shouldn’t have even been issued a summons. As I said to Jeff, I hope I never have to talk with him again, but I won’t hesitate to call if need be.

— Christian

First Rate Legal Representation

If one were to Google all the attributes that you want in legal representation, Wolf Law would check off each box. His entire staff is helpful and professional. As for Mr. Wolf himself, his expertise and straight-talk are exactly what you want and need in an attorney. The outcome of my case matched my most optimistic goal. I thoroughly endorse Wolf Law.

— Trenton

Wow

Unfortunately, I have required an attorney more than a few times. That said, Jeff is the most intelligent, competent, compassionate, committed, aggressive representation to be found, without a doubt. Facing a felony DUI, no proof of insurance, careless driving and cruelty to animals (my dog gets more love than most people in the world), followed by two DURs (driving under revocation), I pretty much felt I was screwed. After hiring and firing two attorneys, I called Jeff. Note: Do your research before you waste money, and do whatever it takes to get the money for proper representation. I met with Jeff based on his peer reviews, client reviews, education and experience; all of them positive and 100 percent accurate. Twenty minutes into the consultation, all my built-up stress and anxiety had been significantly reduced. I thought my driving privileges were over for a while. Jeff showed me what I needed to do to get a restricted license, which I was able to do within a few days. Following that he made two DURs, jail time offenses, turn into one zero-point traffic violation. Then, one year to the date of my run-in with the law, Jeff and I went to trial. The no insurance charge was dropped. I was insured. The cruelty to animals charge was dropped after the first day of trial. On the second day, I was found not guilty of DUI, DWAI and careless driving. The time, effort and determination Jeff put in was clear, and his strategies and trial skills were clearly superb. No better counsel can be found in my opinion.

— Patrick

Amazing Lawyer

If you’re looking for an amazing lawyer I would highly recommend Jeff Wolf and Wolf Law in general Jeff helped me every step of the way, kept me well informed about what was going on with my case, and was very responsive to every question I had and is genuinely a good dude. I appreciated all of his help and the way he handled my case. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a good lawyer cause he’s definitely the way to go thank you again Jeff!

— Jordan B

Successful and Very Pleased

My name is Matt and I was ordered to register as a sex offender for 10 years. I ended up registering for 15 because the courts make it near impossible to get off the list. I tried on my own more than once and the paperwork for one county alone is enough to discourage someone, let alone four counties. I felt hopeless.

I decided to call Wolf Law and get an estimate. I ended up meeting with Colleen Kelley and she was very helpful. Told me the price, which was very reasonable, and I paid to get started. She warned me that it can take up to a year to get a court date and she was right. For me it took nine months, but when the time came, she represented me well and I finally got off the registry.

Life is so much more comfortable now and less embarrassing. The S.O. title is one of the worst badges of shame one can wear and thanks to Colleen Kelley and Wolf Law I no longer carry that weight. I’m thrilled to feel like a normal guy again.

— Matt S.