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Can I Get Fired in Colorado Just for Being Arrested?
Unfortunately, in many cases you can be legally fired in Colorado for being arrested, even if you have not been convicted. There are legal exceptions to protect workers in certain situations, such as whistleblower statutes and state and federal anti-discrimination laws, but because Colorado is an “at-will” state, employees hired for an indefinite period can be fired at any time for almost any reason.
Why You Should Never Take a Roadside Sobriety Test in Colorado
A field sobriety tests (FST) consists of three tasks an officer may ask you to perform. This is typically requested after a driver has been pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI). Drivers in Colorado are under no legal obligation to take an FST, and we strongly recommend that you politely decline any roadside tests by saying, “I would prefer not to.”
Entering a Diversion Program in Mesa County
The state of Colorado has some of the most complex laws surrounding drug crimes and DUIs. Here in Mesa County, a defendant may be confused about the consequences of his arrest and what options are available to him. Despite our state requiring hefty penalties for convictions, our courts still offer several alternatives to jail. A diversion program or alternative sentencing program may allow you to avoid time behind bars while also learning new skills and how to avoid becoming a repeat offender.
Can I Take My Gun Through a National Forest?
The laws surrounding firearms in Colorado are complex, with gun owners having to fulfill specific registration requirements and guidelines to legally transport their weapons. Making a mistake could easily lead to a criminal charge, but you should never forget your rights, especially if you are a hunter.
You are allowed to carry a firearm while visiting a National Forest in Colorado, but you must comply with federal regulations in addition to state laws. Specific rules apply to where firearms can be discharged or transported within National Parks, as detailed by the Colorado State Patrol, and the attorneys at Peters & Nolan, LLC, have broken them down below.
Understanding Colorado’s Homicide Laws
Murder and manslaughter are both crimes that involve the taking of another human life, but the line between the two can become blurred in a criminal case. In Colorado courts, the crime of manslaughter carries a lighter sentence than the crime of murder. Let’s see why.
Police Pullovers: Why You Need to Know Your Rights
If you are driving on a public road in Colorado, a police officer can pull you over. This happens to most people sooner or later, often for something simple like a busted taillight or an expired registration sticker. Even when you have already had the experience, those flashing lights in your rearview mirror can still cause an adrenaline rush. When this happens, it is important to know that you have rights and remember what they are. Trust us, you should always protect yourself.
Felonies vs. Misdemeanors: What’s the Difference?
If you watch the news or legal dramas, then you are likely already aware that crimes are sorted into one of two categories: misdemeanors or felonies. What crime gets what label may seem arbitrary to you. That may be, but the truth is, there are some key differences in misdemeanors and felonies, which carry over to the penalties that the defendants will be facing.
Sealing vs. Expungement: What’s the Difference?
After being arrested or convicted of a crime, you may be keen to have your criminal record washed clean. After all, that record can have a severe impact on your ability to get a job, find a place to live, or receive benefits from public assistance programs. In your research to determine how to get rid of a rap sheet, you may have stumbled upon the phrases “sealing” and “expunging.” Both sound promising for your needs, but what is the difference between them, and which would serve you better?
Your Criminal Record: Getting It Sealed
Whenever someone in Colorado is arrested or convicted, the crime is noted in their criminal record. These records are accessible to police officers, as well as the public, meaning anyone can do a little digging and find out about your past mistakes. This can make it very difficult for people to move from their arrests and convictions, as the record can impact their ability to get a job, get housing, or even pursue higher education. People with criminal histories are, unfortunately, often discriminated against. That is why sealing your record may be to your benefit.
Before You Sweep the Leg…
What do karate, Guam, and the Department of Revenue and Taxation all have in common?
Perhaps you’ve heard the old line, possibly from a movie, that goes something like: “I’m a trained karate expert. My hands and feet are registered as deadly weapons.”
Contact us today for a Free Consultation
Call Peters & Nolan, LLC at 970-243-4357 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation.
Peters & Nolan, LLC is your ideal source for high quality legal representation throughout the state of Colorado. Known for being personable and responsive, attorneys Andrew J. Peters and Andrew Nolan are aggressive trial lawyers with an excellent record of trying and settling cases in criminal defense, DUI/DWAI and personal injury.
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