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Castle Rock Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

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Castle Rock Disorderly Conduct Attorney

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Home > Castle Rock Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

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Disorderly Conduct Laws in Colorado are Complex

Let’s start with some context. Over the past decade, disorderly conduct has become increasingly common across the state of Colorado. While these charges may seem minor at first glance, a conviction can haunt your criminal record for years to come.

At our firm, we’ve seen even straightforward cases spiral out of control when handled improperly. That’s why having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll walk through the ins and outs of disorderly conduct law here in Colorado. Our goal is to provide clarity and hope by arming you with information so that together, we can achieve the best possible outcome.

What Exactly is Disorderly Conduct?

Under Colorado law, disorderly conduct is defined as any behavior that intentionally disturbs the peace and tranquility of another individual or the community at large. This includes things like causing unreasonable noise, engaging in “fighting words,” or creating hazardous conditions through reckless actions. Police and prosecutors have discretion in applying the law, so the definition can feel frustratingly vague.

In our experience, common charges stem from public arguments, intoxicated behavior, using profanity around others, or intervening in police action. Regardless of the circumstances, these criminal charges should be taken seriously, as convictions can limit job opportunities, ruin reputations, and even result in jail time.

Potential Penalties for Disorderly Conduct

If convicted of disorderly conduct in Colorado, an individual faces up to 120 daysin jail and a fine of up to $750, as per C.R.S. 18-1.3-501. While actual sentences tend to be less severe, even a short stint in jail can jeopardize work, school, and family obligations. Those convicted also gain a permanent criminal record, which comes with collateral consequences.

For repeat offenders, penalties escalate quickly. A second conviction within 5 years becomes a class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $1,000, according to C.R.S. 18-1.3-501.

Disorderly Conduct Charges are Common in Colorado

You may be shocked to learn just how often disorderly conduct charges arise in our state. Over the past decade, rates have risen by nearly 30% to approximately 3,500 charges per 100,000 residents, according to data from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. Almost half of these charges ultimately result in misdemeanor convictions.

Certain cities see far more cases than others. For example, in Castle Rock, disorderly conduct represents one of the most common charges filed each year in municipal court. With its family-friendly reputation, you might assume this semi-rural town to be peaceful. Yet many disorderly conduct cases are filed annually.

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A Castle Rock Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Fight the Charges

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When faced with a disorderly conduct charge, the natural instinct is to want the situation to just “go away.” Many opt to represent themselves, plead guilty prematurely, or accept diversion programs rather than hire legal counsel. While this route seems easier in the short term, it can cause problems down the road.

Having an experienced defense attorney in your corner levels the playing field and protects your rights. Counsel can pinpoint procedural problems, exploit loopholes, negotiate dismissal of charges, and secure “not guilty” verdicts at trial. For instance, we’ve won cases by demonstrating that police failed to issue proper warnings before making arrests.

Our Castle Rock Criminal Defense Attorneys Have Decades of Experience

The skilled criminal defense lawyers at our law firm have decades of combined experience beating these charges in Castle Rock and across Colorado. Through relentless investigation and negotiation, we strive to minimize the penalties and collateral damage from disorderly conduct charges. For qualified applicants, we also facilitate entry into diversion programs, resulting in complete dismissal.

By providing both compassion and aggressive advocacy, we empower citizens to move forward with their lives unencumbered by a conviction. If you or a loved one are currently facing criminal charges, please get in touch for a free consultation. We’re ready to help you through this difficult time.

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Resources

Colorado criminal procedure

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  • Arrest or
    Summons
    01

    Arrest or
    Summons

    The process begins with either an arrest or a summons. The accused is either arrested or served with paperwork summoning them to appear in court. During an arrest, Miranda rights may or may not be read to you. Officers are only required to recite your rights if they intend to question you about potentially incriminating things.

  • Bond Hearing
    02

    Bond Hearing

    In most cases, you're entitled to have a reasonable bond set after you've been arrested. In situations involving domestic violence, the police will request input from the victim before setting a bond. Bonds are set to ensure that a person appears in court at their court dates. If they don’t show up, they forfeit the money that was paid for the bond.

  • Advisement of
    Charges
    03

    Advisement of
    Charges

    Whether you are arrested or given a summons to appear, the court must make sure you understand what crimes you are being accused of committing. This is called advisement of charges. The District Attorney will detail the specific charges against you, and the Judge has to make sure you understand what possible penalties are associated with that charge in the state.

  • Preliminary Hearing
    (for Higher Felony
    Charges)
    04

    Preliminary Hearing
    (for Higher Felony
    Charges)

    A preliminary hearing is a way for your defense attorney to challenge the District Attorney’s right to bring charges against you by making them prove that there is reason to believe you committed a crime. The Judge is not deciding your guilt or innocence, but rather whether or not there is probable cause to charge you with the crime in question.

  • Pretrial Conference /
    Disposition
    Hearing
    05

    Pretrial Conference /
    Disposition
    Hearing

    This court date comes after your attorney has reviewed all of the reports and evidence in your case. Here’s where your attorney will engage in plea negotiations with the DA. If they can reach an agreement on the case, you may be able to take a plea bargain. If they cannot reach a resolution, your case will be set for an arraignment or trial date.

  • Arraignment
    06

    Arraignment

    An arraignment is the final date for you to decide how you choose to plea. Guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, then the case is set for a sentencing date. If you plead not guilty, you and your attorney will then set the case for trial.

  • Motions Hearing
    07

    Motions Hearing

    A motion hearing is when an attorney makes a request that requires a decision from the judge. For example, motions to suppress evidence or statements. These motions can limit the information that goes before a jury if it benefits your case, and there are legal grounds for doing so.

  • Pretrial Readiness
    Conference
    08

    Pretrial Readiness
    Conference

    A pretrial readiness conference is held at some point before trial. It usually is held about a week to a month before the date trial is set to begin. This court date ensures everyone is ready to go to trial on the set date. It is also a time for lawyers to bring up any issues they may have to be addressed before the day of trial.

  • Jury Trial
    09

    Jury Trial

    After a jury is selected for trial, the District Attorney’s responsibility is to present the case to the jury. The DA must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the crime. Otherwise, the jury must find you innocent. Your attorney will be able to cross-examine all of the witnesses, present evidence, and ultimately help you navigate this process.

  • Sentencing
    Date
    10

    Sentencing
    Date

    At sentencing, the Judge must decide the appropriate legal penalty for the crime you plead guilty. The Judge’s decision is based on the listed penalties for the specific charge, recommendations from the presentence investigation, your criminal history, as well as statements made at the sentencing by the District Attorney, your attorney, you, and any named victims of the crime.

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Colorado Statutes

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Assault

Burglary

Drug Offenses

Trespass, Tampering and Criminal Mischief

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can arguing with a police officer lead to disorderly conduct charges?

Simply arguing loudly with an officer does not automatically constitute disorderly conduct. The argument must escalate to truly disruptive and unreasonable levels involving “fighting words” for charges to apply.

Can mental health conditions be used as a legal defense?

Potentially yes. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, etc., can sometimes be used as a legal defense against disorderly conduct charges in Colorado, depending on the circumstances.

Can you be charged on private property?

Disorderly conduct arrests can occur on private property in Colorado, not just in public spaces.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

Contact a Top-Rated Castle Rock Criminal Defense Attorney Today

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If you or a loved one are facing disorderly conduct charges in Castle Rock, take hope. With the stakes so high, you need an advocate who will fight relentlessly for your future.

At Right Law Group, we have the experience, expertise, and resources to be that fierce advocate. Our firm has resolved numerous criminal cases across Colorado – achieving dismissed and reduced charges, keeping records clean, and helping good people move on with their lives.

While other lawyers may try to convince you to take a quick plea deal, our attorneys take a personalized, aggressive approach to your defense. We dig deep into the details. Our team includes former prosecutors and district attorneys who know the system inside and out. We don’t just understand the law – we also know the politics, the players, and the unwritten rules that can tip the scales.

With over 500 5-star reviews and a proven track record with disorderly conduct charges, you can trust that Right Law Group has your back. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today. The call is confidential – so take the first step, and we will take care of the rest.

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Areas Served

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El Paso County

Douglas County

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Arapahoe County

  • Centennial
  • Englewood
  • Greenwood Village
  • Cherry Hills Village
  • Foxfield
  • Sheridan
  • Columbine Valley
  • Byers
  • Southglenn
  • Castlewood
  • Peoria

Pueblo County

Teller County

Fremont County

  • Coaldale
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  • Hillside
  • Howard
  • Texas Creek
  • Wellsville