Criminal Defense FAQ

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If you are facing criminal charges in Colorado, you probably have questions about what happens next. An arrest, investigation, or court summons can create uncertainty about your future, your rights, and your legal options.

At Wolf Law, we regularly answer questions from individuals facing criminal allegations throughout Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and surrounding Colorado communities. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about criminal defense, the Colorado court system, and what to expect during a criminal case.

Wolf Law represents clients across Colorado with a criminal defense practice focused on preparation, strategy, and strong legal advocacy. Attorneys and Partners Jeff Wolf and Colleen Kelley lead the firm’s defense team, each bringing decades of trial experience, sharp legal analysis, and a commitment to protecting their clients’ rights at every stage. Both attorneys are known for their national media presence, including commentary on Court TV and Law & Crime, and both bring that same level of analytical rigor and courtroom skill to every case they handle. Together, they reflect Wolf Law’s philosophy that excellent criminal defense is built on preparation, precision, and a genuine commitment to the people they represent.

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested?

Remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and ask to speak with an attorney. Avoid discussing your case with law enforcement officers, friends, family members, or anyone else until you have received legal advice.

Statements made after an arrest may be used as evidence later in the case.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney?

While you have the right to represent yourself, criminal cases often involve complex legal issues, procedural rules, and evidentiary challenges.

An attorney can help protect your rights, review evidence, identify legal defenses, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare your case for trial if necessary.

Will I Get Bond After an Arrest?

In Colorado, nearly every defendant is entitled to bond except those charged with first-degree murder.

The issue is generally not whether someone qualifies for release but rather the amount of bond and the ability to pay. Courts consider factors such as criminal history, community ties, and the nature of the allegations when determining bond conditions.

What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?

Misdemeanors generally carry less severe penalties than felonies.

Colorado has two misdemeanor classes:

  • Class 1 Misdemeanor: More serious misdemeanor offenses.
  • Class 2 Misdemeanor: Less serious misdemeanor offenses.

Felonies are divided into multiple classifications and may carry significantly greater penalties, including prison exposure.

Drug offenses use a separate classification system under Colorado law.

What Happens After Criminal Charges Are Filed?

Although every case is different, most criminal cases follow a similar process:

  • Arrest or Citation
  • Bond Determination
  • Advisement Hearing
  • Discovery and Investigation
  • Negotiations
  • Trial or Resolution

The exact timeline depends on the nature of the allegations, the amount of evidence involved, and the court handling the case.

Have Questions About Your Charges?

Wolf Law offers free consultations for individuals facing criminal allegations throughout Colorado. Call 720.479.8574 to discuss your situation with our team.

What Does Beyond a Reasonable Doubt Mean?

In criminal cases, prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

This is the highest burden of proof in the legal system. It requires prosecutors to present evidence sufficient to convince a jury that the defendant committed the alleged offense.

A defendant does not have to prove innocence. The burden remains on the prosecution throughout the case.

Can Criminal Charges Be Dismissed?

Yes. Charges may be dismissed for many reasons, including:

  • Insufficient evidence
  • Constitutional violations
  • Witness credibility concerns
  • Procedural errors
  • Successful legal challenges

Every case is unique, and no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome. However, dismissal is a possibility in some circumstances.

Should I Talk to Police If I Am Innocent?

Even innocent individuals should exercise caution when speaking with law enforcement.

Misunderstandings, inaccurate statements, and incomplete information can sometimes create additional problems. It is generally wise to speak with an attorney before answering investigative questions.

Can a Criminal Conviction Affect Employment?

Yes. Criminal convictions may affect:

  • Employment opportunities
  • Professional licensing
  • Housing applications
  • Educational opportunities
  • Background checks

The long-term consequences of a conviction are one reason criminal charges should always be taken seriously.

What Happens If I Miss a Court Date?

Missing a required court appearance can result in serious consequences, including warrants, additional charges, or bond revocation.

If you believe you may miss a court appearance, contact your attorney immediately.

What Should I Know About DUI Charges?

Colorado aggressively prosecutes DUI and DWAI allegations.

A conviction may result in:

  • License-related consequences
  • Fines and court costs
  • Probation
  • Alcohol education requirements
  • Possible incarceration

Every DUI case involves unique facts that should be carefully evaluated by an attorney.

What Should I Know About Domestic Violence Cases?

Domestic violence allegations often trigger immediate protection orders and restrictions affecting housing, family relationships, and communication with alleged victims.

Prosecutors frequently pursue domestic violence cases even when an alleged victim no longer wishes to move forward.

How Long Does a Criminal Case Take?

The timeline varies depending on:

  • The complexity of the allegations
  • Court scheduling
  • The amount of evidence involved
  • Whether the case proceeds to trial

Some cases resolve quickly, while others may take several months or longer.

Can I Be Convicted Without Physical Evidence?

Yes. Prosecutors may rely on witness testimony, digital evidence, video recordings, or other forms of evidence.

However, the absence of physical evidence may provide opportunities to challenge the strength of the prosecution’s case.

When Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney?

As soon as possible.

Early legal representation often provides the greatest opportunity to protect your rights, preserve favorable evidence, and develop a strategic defense before critical decisions are made.

Contact Wolf Law Today

If you are facing criminal charges in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, or anywhere in Colorado, do not wait to seek legal guidance.

Wolf Law offers free consultations to help you understand your options and begin building your defense. Call 720.479.8574 today. Your defense starts with a single call to Wolf Law.

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Testimonials

Cares about clients

I’ve had a few attorneys and as most know attorneys mostly care about the money and the payday your case brings them rather than their clients and thats my experience with attorneys.

When I first called Wolf Law they instantly showed their interest in my case and not money. After my initial call to Wolf Law, Jeff Wolf called me back as soon as he had the chance to discuss options and what it would look like if I hired him. He gave great advice and no pressure to use him. That goes along way when looking for an attorney. Jeff and his firm care about their clients and that’s why he will be my attorney moving forward.

— Dylan

Working with Wolf Law

I strongly encourage anyone with legal needs to use Wolf Law LLC. Jeff was professional, efficient and got even better results than I originally anticipated. I hope to avoid legal issues in the future, but if anything were to come up, there is no where else I’d turn to.

— Daniel

Gets the job done!

I recently hired Mr. Wolf for a 23-year-old case and I am extremely satisfied with his service. Mr. Wolf was very knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate throughout the entire process. He kept me informed every step of the way and made sure I understood everything. The outcome of my case was better than I expected, as it was dismissed. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney. Mr. Wolf is efficient and effective, and he truly cares about his clients.

— Jothan Simmons

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.

Legal matter

Mr. Wolf was able to completely quash my 30 year old warrant and have the case fully dismissed within 3 weeks. He has taken such a burden off my shoulders where I can start to live my life like a free woman instead of a woman running from the law that I took care of 30 years ago but the paperwork somehow didn’t get into the correct hands. He truly is a very kind man who takes your case and gets it done fast. Thank you Mr. Wolf, you changed not only my life but my entire family’s lives

— Darin

Professional, Thorough and Successful

Jeff handled my case with expertise and professionalism. He examined my case quickly and accurately then presented me with sound options and advice going forward. Very satisfied with the almost immediate responses to phone calls and emails. Pleased with the outcome Jeff was able to provide in my case.

— Charlie G.

Look No Further – Jeff is the Best

I was falsely accused of a crime with serious consequences, was very depressed and got even more depressed and frustrated as I was interviewing attorneys to defend me. They had a broad spectrum of approaches and some were ready to head to trial immediately as it seemed they were primarily interested in battles and my money rather than my best interests. The first one was extremely arrogant and rushed to get me off the phone. My court appearance date was approaching and I was ready to give up when I came across Jeffrey’s website. I read he had once also been falsely accused which motivated him to become an attorney. After further reading, his philosophy appealed to me so I set up a free session.

I met with Jeffrey and told him what happened. He explained the alleged crime and potential consequences and then spoke about himself and his approach. I spent more time than the “free time” allocated but was never rushed. He listened, believed me and was really genuine as I had not witnessed before with other attorneys.

By the time we finished talking, I felt respected and not disrespected as I found out with this accusation, you are guilty until proven innocent from most everyone’s perspective. I hired Jeff on the spot and when I left his office, I felt this big burden lifted off my shoulders as I knew I could trust him to do his best for me. I was finally able to sleep that night and after several weeks able to put this out of my mind as being the constant main focus.

If you are seeking a very knowledgeable, trustworthy, caring, honest and respectful attorney, Jeffrey fits the bill. He is a great listener and never rushed me even with a flat fee rate. He has a good rapport with the Court who also respectfully listens to him. He is well spoken in the courtroom. I have seen him in several cases reaching very good settlements for his clients. On my case, he provided me his opinion with his rationale as to how I should proceed but allowed me to then make a decision as to go to trial or take a plea bargain. He would fully support my decision either way. Jeff is very good in providing the pros and cons, risks, and potential scenarios that may play out. My case will be dismissed shortly and record sealed as a result of Jeff’s hard work, negotiations, poking holes in the accuser’s story pre-trial, and dedication to my satisfactory case resolution. If you want the best, look no further as you have found him. Thank you Jeff!

— David C.

Excellent Lawyer

I would like to share my experience and recommend Jeffrey Wolf at Wolf Law for their dedication and awesome team. I had recently contacted the Wolf Law firm with a rather challenging case and he was able to get it resolved satisfactorily and for that, thank you.

— Cece M.

Highly Recommended!

Mr. Wolf is an incredible attorney to work with. My father and I have spent some time over the past 10 years with him, and have always seen fantastic results from different types of situations. He is very intelligent, honest, and diligent about any work brought his way.

I highly recommend Mr. Wolf and will call him first, anytime I need legal advice or representation!

Thank you Jeff!

— Greg

Excellent

I had Jeff work on two cases of mine. Very professional and very understanding. Outstanding communication and advice. I would highly recommend Mr. Wolf to anyone seeking legal help.

— Jasen B.