Sawyer Legal Group, LLC

Assault Lawyer in Lakewood, Colorado

2026-07-13T17:34:15Z

Assault occurs in Lakewood, Colorado when someone knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally causes bodily injury to another person. The different degrees of this charge depend on intent, presence of a deadly weapon, severity of injury, and sometimes the profession of the alleged victim (peace officer, firefighter, etc). A conviction can have an especially negative impact on a defendant's life, including time behind bars, hefty fines, and loss of employment. Consulting an aggressive assault lawyer is paramount for those accused or charged with this crime.

How Serious is 2^nd Degree Assault?

Very. Ramifications can drastically alter the trajectory of a defendant's future. C.R.S. 18-3-203 defines the conduct and seriousness of assault in the second degree. Someone commits this offense in Jefferson County, CO when they:

cause bodily injury or serious bodily injury to another person,
threaten an official with the intent to cause serious bodily injury,
cause bodily injury to another while they perform a lawful duty,
recklessly cause bodily injury to someone by means of a deadly weapon,
unlawfully drug someone without their consent,
knowingly apply physical force against an on-duty official while confined or in custody,
cause a detention facility employee to come in contact with bodily fluid

As you can see, this complex offense has many details and nuances. So many different situations and altercations can fit within its broad definition. Additionally, a deadly weapon can include anything from your feet to a gun or knife. Furthermore, when a police officer is the "victim," the punishments amplify.

How Much Time Do You Get for Assault in the Second Degree?

Sentencing for a conviction of assault in the second degree can include penalties of a class 6 felony all the way up to a class 3 felony. Periods of incarceration can be 1 - 12 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections, as well as fines of $2,000 - $500,000. Sometimes assault occurs during the commission of another crime such as Burglary, Robbery, or Sexual Assault. Consequently, harsher punishments apply to these scenarios.

Lakewood Attorney for 2^nd Degree Assault Charge

The crime of second degree assault is subject to mandatory sentencing, which means going to prison is a likely punishment. Therefore, contacting an experienced assault lawyer is vital in forming a strong defense. Important details and impactful evidence exist in all cases and require timely analysis from a capable defense attorney. Perhaps you were involved in a bar fight but didn't hurt anyone or you didn't act recklessly. Nevertheless, consult a highly rated criminal defense lawyer and schedule a free consultation. We will take the time to hear your side of the story and outline next steps, all while prioritizing your best possible outcome.

Don't talk to police about an assault allegation - talk to us. [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-2"].

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Domestic Violence Assault Lawyer in Denver | Arguments That Escalate

2026-06-26T19:14:14Z

A domestic violence assault charge can follow after arguments between couples that escalate. In Denver, Cherry Creek, and Park Hill, an incident where a person's current or former romantic partner is accused of causing their bodily injury can lead to a mandatory arrest and a protection order. Due to bodily injury including something as minute as pain, even a disagreement that ends in a slap across the face or holding on to an arm can qualify as domestic violence assault. Interactions with spouses, significant others, an ex, or someone you're casually dating may become legally problematic if someone physically lashes out at the other.

Denver DV Assault Law

Denver's domestic violence assault law prohibits causing a partner's bodily injury. Police in Denver, Montbello, and Green Valley Ranch will pursue charges if they believe you:

intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly,
caused bodily injury,
to your wife or husband, an ex, your girlfriend or boyfriend, or co-parent

The injury itself doesn't have to be serious. Physical pain, illness, or impairment are considered bodily injury throughout Colorado. Unfortunately, some cases involve circumstances where neither partner wants to pursue charges and realizes tempers flared, but no one is in danger. However, in an attempt to protect communities and those in them, charges are pursued nonetheless.

How Bad is a Domestic Violence Assault Charge in Denver?

All DV assault cases are different. Penalties will depend on the facts of the case, including the extent of injury caused, whether a deadly weapon was used, and the defendant's criminal history:

On top of these assault penalties, additional domestic violence enhancement consequences can include:

DV treatment,
restraining orders,
alcohol and drug counseling,
restricted firearm possession / ownership

Hiring a top domestic violence assault lawyer capable of strategic negotiation with prosecutors and the ability take a case of this nature to trial is crucial to a defendant's future.

Denver's Leading Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

When it comes to skilled representation after a domestic violence incident in Denver, Sawyer Legal Group is second to none. Our approach is one that persistently pursues the best possible outcome for each of our clients. Perhaps you were provoked, acting in self-defense, or the injury is being significantly exaggerated. Nevertheless, you can trust our Denver criminal defense attorneys with your future. Contact our office for a free, confidential consultation where we will carefully analyze your case, answer your questions, and recommend next steps. Our same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans make experienced representation a realty for those accused of domestic violence in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Littleton, Thornton, Arvada, Westminster, and Broomfield.

Don't talk to police about DV assault - talk to us. [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-2"]

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Eagle County DUI Lawyer | Vail & Avon Defense Attorney

2026-06-15T20:42:34Z

Facing a DUI charge in Eagle County, Colorado, can be overwhelming, but understanding the key elements of a strong defense is critical. Every DUI case begins with the traffic stop itself, and one of the first questions our defense attorneys will examine is whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion to initiate the stop. If the stop was unlawful or unsupported by observable facts, evidence gathered afterward may be challenged. Our attorneys also carefully review:

police reports,
body-camera footage,
and witness statements

to identify inconsistencies that could weaken the prosecution's case.

Field Sobriety in Vail and Avon

Another important aspect of DUI defense involves challenging the officer's observations and field sobriety testing procedures. Police officers often rely on factors such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, or poor performance on roadside tests to establish probable cause. However, fatigue, medical conditions, weather at elevation, uneven road surfaces, and anxiety can all affect a driver's appearance and performance. An experienced DUI defense lawyer will scrutinize whether standardized field sobriety tests were administered correctly and whether the officer's conclusions were supported by objective evidence.

Expressed Consent Law in Eagle County

Chemical testing is often at the center of a Colorado DUI case. Under Colorado's Expressed Consent Law, drivers who are lawfully arrested for suspected impaired driving are often required to submit to a breath or blood test. However, test results are not automatically accurate or immune to challenge. Skilled Colorado defense attorneys frequently investigate whether:

testing equipment was properly calibrated,
blood samples were collected and handled according to protocol,
and any medical or environmental factors may have affected the results

Questions about testing procedures can create reasonable doubt and strengthen a defendant's case in Colorado's ski country.

Top DUI Defense in Vail

Finally, successful DUI defense in Eagle County requires a comprehensive review of both the criminal case and your driver's license consequences. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate every stage of the investigation, from the initial stop through the arrest and chemical testing process, while also addressing DMV-related issues that can impact your driving privileges. Because every Colorado DUI case is unique, an individualized defense strategy focused on the specific facts, evidence, and procedural issues can make a significant difference in protecting a client's rights, record, and future. [button link="https://www.omalleylawoffice.com/contact/"] Contact Sawyer Legal Group Now[/button] Photo by Pavel Danilyuk

Vehicular homicide: When a tragic accident becomes a felony

2026-06-09T17:50:08Z

Motor vehicle crashes happen at an alarming rate. While some of those crashes are accidents, others have causes like drunk driving, reckless driving or negligence. When it’s determined that a fatal crash wasn’t an accident, the driver who caused the wreck may face a vehicular homicide charge. Once the cause of the crash is determined, the way the criminal case will be handled can be determined. For example, a case involving drunk driving will be handled in a much different manner than one involving reckless driving. Criminal defense attorneys take that information into account when they’re determining how to set the strategy to fight the prosecutor’s claims.

Cases involving drunk driving

In fatal drunk driving crashes, the focus is often on whether the driver operated a vehicle under the influence and if that led to the death. Intent to kill isn’t required in these cases, but this charge is treated more seriously in Colorado than similar cases involving reckless driving. These cases often hinge on chemical test results, witness statements, officer observations and crash reconstructions. Each of those can become a part of the defense strategy.

Cases involving reckless driving

A reckless vehicular homicide charge focuses on how the driver was operating the vehicle. This is often used for cases involving extreme speeding, ignoring traffic controls, aggressive passing and other similar conduct that suggests the driver was disregarding significant risks. It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean that a charge can occur just because the crash was fatal. Instead, prosecutors must be able to connect the fatality with conduct that meets the statute’s requirements. Vehicular homicide cases are serious criminal matters because they can dramatically alter the defendant’s life. Understanding the defense options is critical, and those options must be tailored to the specific circumstances. It’s often beneficial for those facing these charges to seek experienced legal guidance.

Colorado Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

2026-05-18T18:48:05Z

An arrest or allegation of a sex crime in Colorado can upend a defendant's life. Strict, long-lasting penalties exist for a conviction and the presumption of guilt couldn't be greater. However, a charge of sexual assault or unlawful sexual contact can be difficult to prove in some cases. At Sawyer Legal Group, our experienced Colorado sex crimes defense lawyers are prepared to fight for the best possible outcome for our clients. Whether negotiating for a reasonable plea deal, arguing for a dismissal, or taking a case to trial, our representation and reputation speaks for itself throughout Colorado courtrooms.

Sexual Assault vs Sexual Contact in Colorado

These terms are often widely misunderstood when it comes to Colorado's legal system. Sexual assault is a crime that involves nonconsensual (due to age, difference in age, or lack of consent) penetration or intrusion. Rape, oral sex without consent, and unwanted penetration with a foreign object are examples of sexual assault in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora. Sexual contact crimes involve slightly less invasive actions, usually including unwanted groping, fondling, or touching of someone's intimate body parts. If the victim in a sexual contact case (or sex assault case) is 17 years old or younger, Colorado's laws surrounding age of consent, position of trust, and sexual assault on a child come into play.

Common Penalties for Colorado Sex Crimes

Sexual assault offenses in Arapahoe, Denver, and Jefferson County are extraordinary risk felonies, substantially increasing sentencing ranges. Generally speaking a conviction for sexual assault can lead to:

a prison sentence of a few years to over a decade,
fines of up to $750K,
sex offender registration,
mandatory evaluation / treatment,
strict community supervision

Aggravating factors such as the age of the victim, use of force, and defendant's criminal background can send the prison sentence soaring. Additionally, many Colorado sex crimes are subject to indeterminate prison / probation sentencing where the defendant faces a minimum amount of incarceration / supervision with no maximum. Some similar penalties exist for possession, distribution, or creation of child pornography. An unlawful sexual contact crime that doesn't involve a juvenile victim is often a class 1 misdemeanor. While this contact offense can require sex offender registration alongside supervision / treatment, the county jail sentence is a maximum of 364 days.

How to Fight a Colorado Sex Crime Charge

Creating a strong defense to sex crime charges in Colorado starts with contacting Sawyer Legal Group. The earlier a defendant does this, the better. Prosecutors have nearly endless resources at their disposal in sex cases, including some victim advocates whose aim is to see a defendant punished as severely as possible before they're even proven guilty. Perhaps sex or sexual contact never occurred, the alleged victim consented, or exaggerations are being made of what actually happened. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation. We can speak with those contacted by police, accused by another, or being held in county jails. Our highly-rated criminal lawyers will carefully review your situation, answer your questions, and outline productive next steps in your defense.

Don't talk to police about sex crime allegations - talk to us. 303-731-0719

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Vehicular Assault Defense in Lakewood | Drunk or Reckless?

2026-05-11T15:40:23Z

Vehicular assault in Lakewood, Arvada, and Golden is a serious traffic offense that can occur in the blink of an eye. When someone is seriously injured in a collision or everyday accident, law enforcement will look to hold the other driver accountable in some way. If they feel your driving was either reckless or they believe you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, felony charges can result. Additionally, the severity of the injury itself may not become evident until well after the collision, meaning charges may come later than expected. Contact our Jefferson County traffic attorneys today if you're being accused of vehicular assault.

Jefferson County Vehicular Assault Law

Jeffco's vehicular assault law prohibits specific behaviors behind the wheel that cause another's injury. CRS 18-3-205 addresses the elements of this crime throughout Jefferson, Denver, and Adams County. Police will pursue this charge if they believe you:

operated or drove a motor vehicle,
in a reckless manner or while under the influence of alcohol or one or more drugs,
AND this conduct is the proximate cause of someone's serious bodily injury

Voluntarily driving home after a night out at bars or drinking at a party is a risky choice, especially if a collision occurs. However, taking prescription marijuana, allergy meds, or even cold medicine can also lead to being under the influence. While reckless vehicular assault and DUI vehicular assault involve different behaviors, the penalties for a conviction can impact defendants for a long time.

How Bad is Vehicular Assault in Jefferson County?

Vehicular assault is a felony throughout the state of Colorado. Several factors can come into play when it comes to a conviction and sentencing. When reckless driving causes another's serious injury, a class 5 felony applies. This can lead to:

up to 3 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
fines of $1K - $100K,
2 years of parole

In cases where DUI is behind the other person's serious injury, a class 4 felony charge often results. Defendants in these cases face:

a prison sentence of 2 - 6 years,
fines of $2K - $500K
3 years of parole

Lakewood Vehicular Assault Defense

Those facing allegations of vehicular assault in Lakewood or elsewhere in Jefferson County should proceed carefully. Exercising your right to remain silent and consulting a skilled attorney early on can go a long way in protecting your future. Perhaps the collision wasn't your fault, you weren't driving recklessly, or the injury isn't as serious as the alleged victim is claiming. Nonetheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. Our traffic lawyers will carefully analyze your case, answer your questions, and recommend next steps in your defense. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those accused of vehicular assault in Jefferson, Denver, Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas County.

Don't talk to law enforcement about vehicular assault - talk to us. [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-2"]

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Aurora Theft Defense Attorney | Items Under $2,000

2026-04-28T18:19:50Z

In Aurora, Centennial, and Englewood, intentionally stealing someone's property can lead to theft charges. In any larceny case, the value of items taken determines a lot. When that figure falls between $300 - $1,999, a misdemeanor applies. There are several elements involved with theft based on CRS 18-4-401 that defendants should understand when forming a defense to their charges. If you or someone important to you has been accused of theft in Arapahoe, Douglas, or Elbert County, the time to talk to Sawyer Legal Group is now.

Theft Details in Arapahoe County

Colorado's theft laws prohibit knowingly obtaining, retaining, or exercising control over another's property without specific permission. CRS 18-4-401 defines the elements of theft in Aurora, Centennial, and Englewood. Police will pursue a theft charge if they believe alongside taking someone's property you:

intended to deprive the owner permanently of the use or benefit of the item(s),
knowingly used, concealed, or abandoned the item to deprive the owner of its use or benefit,
demanded any consideration in returning the property to the owner,
or knowingly kept the property for 72+ hours beyond the agreed return time

Another tricky element to theft includes what my seem like simply taking or using a co-owned item for a given period of time. Permission from the other owner is essential to avoid this theft trap in Colorado.

How Bad is Theft in Aurora?

Each misdemeanor theft case is different. Consequences for a conviction won't always look the same. Multiple thefts that occur within 6 months will often be totaled in value when it comes to sentencing ranges. When stolen property value falls between $300 and $999 a class 2 misdemeanor applies. This can lead to:

up to 120 days in county jail,
fines of up to $750,
restitution

If the stolen property value reaches $1,000 but remains under $2,000, a class 1 misdemeanor is charged. A conviction in these scenarios can include:

up to 364 days in county jail,
fines of up to $1K,
restitution

Felony theft in Aurora is charged under the following circumstances:

value reaches or exceeds $2K,
you're accused of pick-pocketing someone,
or the victim is 70+ or a disabled person

Aurora's Top Theft Defense Attorney

When it comes to crafting a strong defense to theft charges in Arapahoe County or Aurora Municipal Court, Sawyer Legal Group is the law firm you want in your corner. Our criminal lawyers have decades of combined experience and are prepared to fight for your best possible outcome. Whether that is a favorable plea, a dismissal, or taking a theft case to trial, strategic defense is crucial. Contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation and see our expertise in action.

Don't talk to police about theft charges - talk to us. 303-731-0719

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Adams County Domestic Violence Attorney

2026-04-14T16:45:38Z

Threats or acts of violence in Colorado against romantic partners can end in criminal charges with a domestic violence enhancement. Whether these actions are taken against a current or former significant other, the ramifications can significantly alter a person's life. Common charges that involve domestic violence enhancements in Adams County include harassment, assault, and false imprisonment. However, DV can be added to any criminal charge including those where damage to property occurs. Consult a strategic domestic violence attorney right away if you're facing a criminal accusation from a current or former partner.

Adams County Domestic Violence Laws

Adams County's domestic violence laws prohibit certain actions taken against exes or current romantic partners. C.R.S. 18-6-800.3 defines violations of this sentence enhancer throughout Colorado. You commit a crime with a domestic violence add-on in Thornton, Commerce City, or Thornton if you:

perform or threaten an act of violence,
as a means of coercion, control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge,
upon a current or former intimate partner

In situations where a platonic relationship exists, only the underlying crime applies. The above acts against friends, roommates, or coworkers won't include a domestic violence enhancement unless a romantic relationship exists or existed at some point. Relationships where domestic violence can apply include those between spouses, exes, girlfriend / boyfriend, and co-parents.

Consequences of Domestic Violence in Thornton

Each DV case is different. As a result, the penalties are as well. At the onset of a domestic violence allegation, a mandatory arrest and a restrictive restraining order apply. This can put quite a strain on families and prohibit a father or mother from returning home as they must avoid the accuser. In addition to whatever jail time and fines result from the underlying crime, a conviction often results in a domestic violence treatment program and an extended restraining order.

Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Adams County

We understand the difficulties associated with an accusation of domestic violence in Colorado. We've successfully defended hundreds of clients trying to navigate both the criminal charge and domestic violence enhancement. Perhaps your case involves an act of self-defense or the situation was a genuine accident. That being said, we recommend you exercise your right to remain silent and contact our team for a free consultation. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make skilled representation a reality during uncertain times.

Don't talk to police about domestic violence allegations - talk to us. [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-2"].

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Marijuana DUI vs. alcohol DUI: what sets outcomes apart

2026-03-24T15:12:50Z

With the legalization of medical and recreational marijuana in Colorado, many drivers believe they understand the rules. However, a marijuana DUI can quickly complicate that assumption. Unlike alcohol, there is no clear line where legal use becomes impairment behind the wheel. A driver may not feel impaired, yet a test result can still raise legal concerns. This gap often creates confusion, particularly for those who believe they made responsible choices. Understanding how these cases work, and why they are treated differently from alcohol DUIs, can help you make informed decisions about what comes next.

How marijuana DUIs differ from alcohol cases

Alcohol-related DUIs follow a more defined structure. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) provides a widely accepted benchmark, and its effects on the body are well documented. In contrast, marijuana DUI cases rely on less precise measures. THC affects each person differently and does not move through the body in a predictable way. It can remain in the bloodstream long after its impairing effects have passed. As a result, a blood test may detect THC even when a driver is no longer impaired. Colorado law sets a threshold of 5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood. However, this limit does not automatically establish intoxication. Instead, it allows a court to infer impairment, which prosecutors must support with additional evidence. Because of this, law enforcement often depends on observations such as driving behavior, physical appearance and performance on field sobriety tests. These factors can introduce subjectivity and make marijuana DUI cases more complex than alcohol-related charges.

Key factors that can affect a THC DUI case

Marijuana DUI cases often turn on a combination of evidence rather than a single test result. Several factors can influence how a case develops and how impairment is evaluated. Some of the most important factors include:

The timing of marijuana use in relation to when you were driving
The collection, handling and accuracy of blood test results
The officer’s observations and how field sobriety tests were conducted
Your individual tolerance and how your body processes THC
Whether alcohol or other substances were also involved

Each of these elements can shape how the court interprets the evidence. No single factor tells the full story, which is why these cases often require a closer, more careful review. Marijuana DUI cases in Colorado present unique challenges. The science is less settled, and the legal process often depends on interpretation as much as measurement. If you are facing a marijuana DUI, seeking legal guidance can help you better understand your options and protect your interests. An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify potential issues and provide the support you need.

Denver Sexual Assault Defense Attorney | CRS 18-3-402

2026-03-19T21:19:04Z

Sexual acts that involve intrusion or penetration can lead to sexual assault charges in Denver, Montbello, and Green Valley Ranch. If claims are made that vaginal, oral, or anal sex occurred with force or without consent, law enforcement usually begins an investigation that can end with your arrest. This felony sex crime can carry anywhere from 2 years to life in prison for defendants throughout Colorado. If you've been accused of a crime like this, don't talk to the police. Contact a Denver sexual assault defense attorney from Sawyer Legal Group as soon as you can.

What Exactly is Sexual Assault in Denver?

Headlines can be misleading. Sometimes the nightly news and their websites label cases as sexual assault that don't involve intrusion or penetration. In an attempt to get more viewers and clicks, they sometimes misuse legal terminology. CRS 18-3-402 defines sexual assault in Denver, Adams, and Arapahoe County. Police will pursue a sex assault charge if they believe you:

performed an act of vaginal intercourse, oral copulation, anal sex, anilingus, fingering, or penetration with a foreign object,
- against that person's will,
- when they were drunk, high, or mentally debilitated in some way,
- or when they were physically helpless

Groping or fondling someone's intimate parts is not sexual assault in Colorado, but rather unlawful sexual contact (usually a class 1 misdemeanor).

How Much Jail Time for Sexual Assault in Denver?

Sexual assault is at minimum a class 4 felony in Denver, Aurora, and Lakewood. In cases where force wasn't used and the victim wasn't injured, a defendant's consequences can include:

up to 8 years in a state prison,
fines of $2K - $500K,
sex offender evaluation / treatment,
sex offender registration

Punishment increases if there's evidence of threat or use of physical force, drugging, or a deadly weapon. Sexual assaults that involve a deadly weapon become a crime of violence, with the possibility of life in prison. Indeterminate sentencing is also a factor when it comes to the period of incarceration for a sex assault conviction.

Who is Experienced Denver Sexual Assault Defense Attorney?

When it comes to an allegation of sexual assault in Denver, Douglas, or Jefferson County, skilled representation is crucial. Whether you've been overcharged, made a poor choice after a party, or have been falsely accused, Sawyer Legal Group should be your first contact. Our skilled criminal lawyers have decades of combined experience pursuing the best possible outcome for each of our clients. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing sex crime charges in Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Lakewood, Fort Collins, Greeley, and Castle Rock. Just because you've been charged with sexual assault doesn't mean you're guilty.

Don't talk to the police about a sexual assault charge - talk to us. 303-731-0719

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