Colorado Springs Military Personal Defense Lawyer

Bold Defense

Serving Colorado Springs Military Members

If you’re active duty, reserve, or veteran facing civilian charges in the Colorado Springs or Fort Carson area, you’re navigating two justice systems at once—the civilian courts and potential military administrative proceedings. I’m Christian Schwaner, a former prosecutor turned defense attorney, and I understand the unique challenges you’re up against.

Reporting Your Charge to Your Superior

It is not always necessary to report your charge to your superior. Relying on my experience representing military personnel charged with crimes by civilian authorities, I can work with you to determine the most prudent actions to take with respect to the chain of command, so as to protect your military career and reputation to the maximum extent possible.

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Close-up of soldiers in tactical gear outdoors.

Civilian charges

DUI & Domestic Violence

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DUI/DWAI

Civil penalties in Colorado can include:

Fines up to $1,500 for a first offense (rising to $500,000 for a 4th offense).
Jail time up to one year (or six years for repeat offenders).
Driver’s license suspension (9 months to 2 years), alcohol education, ignition interlock, SR-22 insurance, community service, and probation.

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Domestic-Violence-Enhanced Charges

Charges aren’t separate crimes, but any qualifying offense (assault, harassment, stalking) may trigger enhanced penalties if within an intimate relationship.
This enhancement mandates arrest, immediate restraining orders, and dismissal is impossible if probable cause exists.
Penalties may include jail, fines, counseling, probation, and loss of firearm rights—impacting both civilian life and military standing.

Military Administrative Penalities

Even if your military isn’t court-martialing you, it can still act:

Letters of reprimand or suspension of privileges.
Substance-abuse treatment mandates.
Revocation of military-driving privileges or firearm clearance—possibly ending overseas assignments or re-enlistment eligibility.
Demotion, loss of rank, or separation from service is possible.

Why Civilian Defense Matters

A strong defense in civilian court can be your best line of defense against military fallout. Clear communication, careful strategy, and a dual-focused approach can protect both your legal rights and your career.
As your attorney, I will:

Prevent serious penalties – A felony conviction can lead to years behind bars and hefty fines.Design tailored defenses for DUI, DV, or related charges.
Advise on whether and how to inform commanding officers.
Strive for case dismissal or reduced charges.
Maintain communication every step of the way.

Fighting Back

Get Quick Answers to Common Concerns

Being charged with a criminal offense by the Colorado civilian authorities could devastate your life and ruin your career. The best defense, however, is a good offense – in other words, the best way to avoid the potential professional ramifications of a criminal conviction is to avoid conviction altogether, or at least plea bargain for a lesser charge.

My name is Christian Schwaner, and I am an experienced Colorado Springs military DUI/domestic violence defense lawyer with years of experience helping military personnel fight back effectively against the Colorado criminal justice system. Since I am a former prosecutor, I understand how the Colorado criminal justice system works from both sides of the table, and I have helped hundreds of people just like you beat criminal charges and move on with their lives.

I provide free initial consultations, and can even visit you in jail if you cannot come to my office. Please take some time to review the information contained in the links below for a thorough explanation of exactly what you are up against. If you are in the military and you have been charged with domestic violence or DUI by the civilian authorities in the Fort Carson or Colorado Springs area, contact me online or call me at (719) 249-6149.