Victoria PearceContributor
Victoria writes about people management, legal practice, technology, and the future of work. Her diverse career has included experience as a US employment lawyer and various roles in human resource management, including a strategic HR role at The Walt Disney Company. Now living in the UK, Victoria provides unique insights on the world of work in the US, UK, and EU.
Victoria Pearce
Victoria PearceContributor
Victoria writes about people management, legal practice, technology, and the future of work. Her diverse career has included experience as a US employment lawyer and various roles in human resource management, including a strategic HR role at The Walt Disney Company. Now living in the UK, Victoria provides unique insights on the world of work in the US, UK, and EU.
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Jeffrey Johnson, J.D.Deputy Legal Editor
Jeffrey Johnson has written novels and movies in addition to legal analyses of eminent domain and immigration law. His experience in writing engaging fiction makes him uniquely capable of making the most dry and academic legal topics interesting (or as interesting as possible).
Reviewed
Jeffrey Johnson, J.D.
Jeffrey Johnson, J.D.Deputy Legal Editor
Jeffrey Johnson has written novels and movies in addition to legal analyses of eminent domain and immigration law. His experience in writing engaging fiction makes him uniquely capable of making the most dry and academic legal topics interesting (or as interesting as possible).
Deputy Legal Editor
Reviewed
Published: Apr 9, 2024, 3:44am
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Facing criminal charges is stressful and challenging to navigate. If you’ve been charged with a crime in the Mile-High City, you need the best lawyer to advocate for your rights.
We’ve researched and compiled a list of the best criminal defense lawyers in Denver, CO, to help you find top representation for your case.
Read more
Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Denver, CO
- Lara M. Baker
- Adam Frank
- Andres R. Guevara
- Russell J. Hebets
- Abraham Hutt
- Richard Kornfeld
- Marci LaBranche
- Laura A. Menninger
- Norman R. Mueller
- Anthony Viorst
Lara M. Baker
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
2005
Law School Attended
University of Virginia School of Law
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Active
2005
University of Virginia School of Law
Why They Made Our List
Lara M. Baker heads her firm’s criminal litigation practice group. She has spent her legal career developing trial skills, first as a civil litigator and now focused on criminal defense cases. In addition to criminal defense, she handles related litigation and investigations involving colleges and universities, the Department of Regulatory Agencies, the Office of Attorney Regulation and the SEC. She is a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, a distinction held by less than 1% of the best trial lawyers in the country.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Named a Top Lawyer by 5280 Magazine
- Former Board of Directors member for the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
- Former member of the University of Colorado Joint Task Force with Boulder District Attorney for Student Athletes
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- Civil rights litigation
- Title IX litigation
Adam Frank
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
2007
Law School Attended
New York University School of Law
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Active
2007
New York University School of Law
Why They Made Our List
Adam Frank has been defending clients against criminal charges since he began his career at the Colorado Office of the State Public Defender. After opening his law firm, he continued to hone trial skills in criminal defense and has won not-guilty verdicts against serious felony charges, including those involving life sentences. In addition to criminal defense cases, he represents clients who have been victims of police misconduct or suffered infringement of their civil rights and also partners with the ACLU on cases.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Named a Top Lawyer by 5280 Magazine
- Named Volunteer of the Year by Learn Your Rights in Colorado
- Achieved dismissal of all criminal charges against an organizer of high-profile protests in Aurora
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- Civil rights litigation
- Post-conviction advocacy
Andres R. Guevara
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
1999
Law School Attended
The George Washington University Law School
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Active
1999
The George Washington University Law School
Why They Made Our List
Andres R. Guevara began his career as an Assistant District Attorney in New York, handling a full range of criminal cases from minor to major offenses. In his 26 years of legal practice, he has represented over 600 criminal defense clients and litigated over 100 cases at hearings or jury trials.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Fluent in Spanish
- Contributing author of Medicolegal Aspects of Marijuana: Colorado Edition
- Named a Top 10 Lawyer for Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- DUI defense
- Drug crimes
Russell J. Hebets
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
2000
Law School Attended
Indiana University Maurer School of Law
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Active
2000
Indiana University Maurer School of Law
Why They Made Our List
Russell J. Hebets started his legal career as a Deputy District Attorney in Arapahoe County. Now, he focuses his practice on criminal defense. For more than 20 years, he has defended individual clients against charges ranging from traffic tickets to first-degree murder. He has successfully defended cases involving murder, DUI, drug charges, traffic violations and vehicular assault.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Member of the National College of DUI Defense
- Co-host of the “Is This Legal?” podcast
- Named a Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- DUI defense
- Violent crimes
Abraham Hutt
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
1984
Law School Attended
University of Southern California Gould School of Law
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Active
1984
University of Southern California Gould School of Law
Why They Made Our List
Abraham Hutt has defended clients against criminal charges for over 30 years. He has successfully represented clients in high-profile and high-stakes cases, including defending against criminal homicide charges. He is a frequent lecturer on trial tactics and DUI defense and is on the faculty at the University of Denver and the University of Colorado Schools of Law. In addition to criminal defense, he defends clients at risk of disciplinary action against their professional licenses.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Named Best DUI Lawyer by Law Week
- Member of the Colorado Legislature Interagency Task Force on Drunk and Impaired Driving
- Member of the Colorado Supreme Court Rules of Criminal Procedure Committee
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- DUI defense
- Professional license defense
Richard Kornfeld
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
1994
Law School Attended
The University of Michigan Law School
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1994
The University of Michigan Law School
Why They Made Our List
Richard Kornfeld specializes in white-collar criminal defense, representing corporate officers, licensed professionals and individuals. Before turning his focus to defense work, he was an Assistant United States Attorney in Chicago. He is a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, offered to fewer than 1% of trial attorneys. Outside the courtroom, he is a frequent legal commentator for major media outlets. He has appeared on outlets like CNN and ABC News.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Admitted to practice in Colorado and Illinois
- Former Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law
- Commissioner for the Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice
- Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- White collar crime
- Fraud and embezzlement
Marci LaBranche
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
2000
Law School Attended
The University of Kansas School of Law
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2000
The University of Kansas School of Law
Why They Made Our List
Marci LaBranche has defended clients accused of crimes for over 20 years. She has handled high-stakes jury trials, achieving acquittal for a client accused of defrauding over $2 million. She has also attained acquittals for multiple clients charged with sexual assault and represents clients in regulatory actions and governmental forfeiture actions. Beyond the courtroom, she has shared her expertise through numerous publications and lectures on criminal law and trial practice skills.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Appointed to the Lawyers’ Assistance Strike Force for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Life member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Named as a Top Lawyer by 5280 Magazine and a Top Litigator by Colorado Law Week
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- Drug crimes
- Professional license defense
Laura A. Menninger
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
2003
Law School Attended
Stanford Law School
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Active
2003
Stanford Law School
Why They Made Our List
Laura Menninger has developed a diverse portfolio of trial experience in criminal defense. She has shared her expertise on criminal defense law and trial tactics through multiple lectures and publications. She is on the faculty of Federal Advocates and an advisory board member for the Wilson Center for Science & Justice at Duke Law School. Menninger is secretary of the Denver chapter of the Women’s White Collar Defense Association and a former board member of the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Named as a Top Lawyer by 5280 Magazine
- Admitted to practice in Colorado and New York
- Chairperson of the Criminal Justice Act Standing Committee
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- Civil rights litigation
- White collar crime
Norman R. Mueller
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
1974
Law School Attended
Yale Law School
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Active
1974
Yale Law School
Why They Made Our List
Norman R. Mueller has handled hundreds of appeals cases over the past 40+ years. He began his career as a Deputy State Public Defender and has represented thousands of clients facing criminal charges since moving into private practice. He routinely takes on appeals cases and shares his expertise on appellate practice through speeches on behalf of the Colorado Bar Association and other organizations. He is a fellow of the American Bar Foundation and a Fellow Emeritus of the Colorado Bar Foundation. He supports the local community as a volunteer for local schools and non-profit groups.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Former appointee to the Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice
- Member of the Colorado Supreme Court Committee on Appellate Rules
- Former member of the Colorado Supreme Court Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- Criminal appeals
- Professional license defense
Anthony Viorst
CO Bar Association Status
Active
Year Admitted to CO Bar
1989
Law School Attended
Georgetown University Law Center
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Active
1989
Georgetown University Law Center
Why They Made Our List
Anthony Viorst has defended clients against criminal charges for over 30 years. He spent the first 10 years of his legal career in the Colorado Public Defenders Office, where he tried over 100 cases defending against charges ranging from DUI to murder. He is on the Board of Governors of the Colorado Bar Association and the Board of Trustees of the Denver Bar Association. He gives back to the community through pro bono representation with Metro Volunteer Lawyers and serving on the Denver Bar Association Community Action Network.
Notable Facts and Recognitions
- Awarded Case of the Year by the Colorado Trial Lawyers’ Association
- Member of the Board of Governors of the Colorado Bar Association
- Fluent in Spanish
Practice Areas
- Criminal defense
- DUI defense
- Personal injury
Compare Top Criminal Attorneys in Denver
Lawyer Name | CO Bar Association Status | Year Admitted to CO Bar | Law School Attended | Learn More CTA text | Learn more CTA below text | LEARN MORE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lara M. Baker | Active | 2005 | University of Virginia School of Law | View More | ||
Adam Frank | Active | 2007 | New York University School of Law | View More | ||
Andres R. Guevara | Active | 1999 | The George Washington University Law School | View More | ||
Russell J. Hebets | Active | 2000 | Indiana University Maurer School of Law | View More | ||
Abraham Hutt | Active | 1984 | University of Southern California Gould School of Law | View More | ||
Richard Kornfeld | Active | 1994 | The University of Michigan Law School | View More | ||
Marci LaBranche | Active | 2000 | The University of Kansas School of Law | View More | ||
Laura A. Menninger | Active | 2003 | Stanford Law School | View More | ||
Norman R. Mueller | Active | 1974 | Yale Law School | View More | ||
Anthony Viorst | Active | 1989 | Georgetown University Law Center | View More |
What is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A criminal defense lawyer is a legal advocate for individuals facing criminal charges, seeking fair treatment and a just outcome for their clients. They review the evidence presented against you and look for mistakes or improper procedures that could benefit your case. They also communicate with prosecutors and may be able to negotiate a plea deal on your behalf. Most importantly, they can advise you as the case proceeds and help you make informed decisions.
Public Defender vs. Private Criminal Attorney
A public defender is a lawyer appointed by the court to represent defendants who cannot afford private legal counsel. You may be required to provide proof of income to show that you cannot afford to hire your own lawyer before a public defender is appointed. The right to a public defender applies to adults facing felony or misdemeanor charges and all juvenile criminal cases.
Many public defenders are highly skilled, but it is common for them to manage a much higher number of cases when compared to private lawyers. If you are able to hire a private criminal attorney, they are more likely to have the time and resources to devote themselves deeply to your case.
Should You Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case?
You can represent yourself in a criminal case but may want to think twice before exercising that right. If charges are minimal, such as a minor traffic infraction, then it may make sense to handle the matter yourself. However, if you are facing potential jail time or large fines and a criminal record, then hiring a lawyer gives you the best chance to obtain a favorable resolution.
Understanding the Legal Process for Criminal Cases
All criminal cases go through a series of stages before a final resolution is reached. Here is an overview of the process in Colorado:
- Arrest. A criminal case begins when a police officer arrests you with probable cause to believe you committed a crime. They will likely read you your Miranda rights and take you to the local police station for booking.
- Bail or bond. After booking, you may be able to post bail or a bond to be released until your court date. Bail refers to the money required for release, while bond refers to a guarantee from a bail bond company that is accepted instead of the full bail.
- Arraignment. Your arraignment is your first court appearance, where the charges against you are presented. This is also your first chance to respond to charges with a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you are not able to afford a lawyer, this is when a public defender is often assigned.
- Plea bargaining. After the arraignment, your lawyer will review the evidence against you and may attempt to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor.
- Pre-trial hearings. Before a full trial is held, pre-trial hearings are held to resolve legal issues like challenges to evidence. These hearings often overlap with plea bargaining and may influence what plea deal terms are offered.
- Trial. If your case is not resolved with a plea deal, then it will proceed to a trial before a judge or jury. In a jury trial, the process begins with jury selection and is followed by an opportunity for prosecution and defense to present their case.
- Verdict and sentencing. Once the trial concludes, a verdict will be issued stating whether or not you are found guilty on each charge. If you are found guilty on any charge, then a sentencing hearing will decide the penalties you will face.
- Appeal. If you have been convicted and sentenced, you may still be able to file an appeal of the trial outcome. An appeal case seeks to overturn part or all of a criminal court decision.
Resolving a Criminal Case in Colorado
Criminal cases can be resolved through either a not-guilty verdict, a conviction or a plea deal. A plea deal is reached through plea bargaining with the prosecution. Essentially, you agree to plead guilty to part of all of the offense in exchange for the prosecution recommending a reduced sentence. Plea deals must be approved by the judge in line with Colorado rules.
A conviction will result in sentencing based on Colorado’s Sentencing Scheme. Sentencing depends on the severity of the conviction and any aggravating or mitigating circ*mstances. A sentence commonly includes fines and/or jail time. Alternatives, such as probation, community service, or drug and alcohol treatment programs, may be offered in lieu of jail time in some cases.
If you are sentenced to jail, obtaining an early release through parole may be possible. Parole is only available for felony sentences after at least 50 percent of the jail time has been completed. Whether your request for parole is approved will depend on the state board of parole’s judgment in line with a risk assessment scale intended to determine whether you pose a risk of reoffense.
Expungement in Colorado
Expungement refers to erasing or clearing your criminal record. This can be helpful to avoid limitations on your ability to get a job or discrimination based on your criminal history. Colorado only allows the expungement of juvenile criminal records and underage DUI convictions.
While expungement options are very limited in Colorado, the state does allow record sealing of many convictions. Unlike expungement, a sealed record does not erase the conviction, but it will only be visible to law enforcement after it is sealed. Some petty offenses are eligible for sealing after one year from the time probation or parole ends, while more serious offenses may require a minimum of five years before they may be approved for sealing.
How to Choose the Best Criminal Lawyer in Denver, CO
Facing criminal charges is stressful and has the potential for life-altering effects. Hiring a qualified lawyer you can trust can provide reassurance, make sure you understand your rights and help secure a fair outcome. Here is what to look for:
- Relevant experience. Lawyers often approach different types of criminal charges with different strategies. Whether you are facing a charge of domestic violence or white-collar crime, you should work with a lawyer who understands your circ*mstances and has experience handling similar cases.
- Clear fees. One of your most important considerations is how much your lawyer will cost. Many criminal defense lawyers charge an hourly rate for their services, though some will take on cases on a flat fee basis. Make sure you understand up front how your lawyer will calculate their fees for your case.
- Successful record. A lawyer cannot guarantee an outcome for you, but it can be helpful to see whether they have obtained acquittals or reduced sentences for other clients facing similar charges.
Denver Criminal Defense Resources
These Denver criminal defense resources can help you find more information:
- Denver Police non-emergency contact number: (720) 913-2000
- Denver arrest records and list of incarcerated persons: Denver City Police Department
- Colorado criminal records: Colorado Bureau of Investigation
- Public Defender inquiries: Denver Office of the Colorado State Public Defender, (303) 620-4999
- Parole conditions: Colorado Department of Corrections
- Sealing criminal records: Colorado Courts
Methodology
To come up with the criminal defense lawyers in Denver of 2024, Forbes Advisor considered many factors. Forbes Advisor’s mathematical analysis considers and weighs the information collected to calculate a specific rating and reviews these results to find the best attorneys in a given practice area.
Within the model, we take into account factors that legal professionals and consumers value in an attorney’s qualifications. After assigning weighted scores to hundreds of data points, we narrowed the field down to our top choices based on:
- Legal experience
- Special licenses and certifications
- Ethics and bar disciplinary measures
- Legal thought leadership
- Education and employment background
- Scholarly lectures and writings
- Awards and honors
Forbes Advisor collects public data from a variety of sources, including state bar associations, court records and other published sources on the internet. This information should not be considered comprehensive, however. It might not include additional relevant information on an attorney’s legal skills and experience.
Each lawyer listed here has their own merits. Bear in mind that our list relates to these lawyers’ legal backgrounds but does not evaluate their personalities or their knowledge of the law. One attorney may be more suitable than another for your specific legal situation.
One thing that can’t be quantified, though, is the rapport you establish with your attorney. Personality goes a long way when teaming up with an attorney, especially when going through a potentially difficult legal situation. These rankings should serve as a reference and potential starting point in your search for the right lawyer for you and your legal concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a Denver criminal defense lawyer cost?
Criminal defense lawyers typically charge between $250 and $500 per hour. Some lawyers charge on a flat fee basis, which can range from $800 for a single court appearance in a simple traffic violation case up to over $20,000 for a complex felony case.
What is the most common defense to criminal charges in Colorado?
There are many potential defenses to Colorado criminal charges, and the best defense for your case will depend on the circ*mstances. Common defenses include a lack of probable cause, coerced confession and mistaken facts.
Can I go to jail for a misdemeanor in Denver?
A misdemeanor conviction in Denver can lead to up to 18 months in county jail. State jail is only sentenced for misdemeanor convictions that are served at the same time as a felony conviction.
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