Get a Former Prosecutor on Your Side
Facing criminal charges can be one of the most daunting experiences in life. The uncertainty of the legal maze, the weight of the allegations, and the fear of what lies ahead can cast a shadow over anyone’s future. Whether it’s a DUI, domestic violence accusation, or any other criminal charge, the consequences can be severe.
Christian Schwaner is your go-to criminal defense attorney in Colorado Springs, CO. He understands the gravity of your situation and the distress that comes with being accused, but he stands ready to fight for your legal rights. Our law office is conveniently located one block south of the El Paso County Courthouse. Schedule an initial consultation today.
An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Can Make All the Difference
Christian Schwaner is a former prosecutor with over 20 years working with Colorado’s legal system. He knows the law inside and out and understands how prosecutors think. He uses his unique perspective to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and build strong defenses that attest to a successful track record in Colorado Springs.
Felony Charges
Felony charges are the most serious criminal offenses in Colorado. They can range from property crimes like burglary and vehicular homicide to violent offenses, including assault and murder. Felonies in Colorado Springs encompass an array of crimes.
A conviction for a felony can result in significant fines, long-term imprisonment, and a criminal record that may follow an individual for the rest of their life. Given the high stakes, seeking an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical when facing felony charges in Colorado. Christian Schwaner is an accomplished lawyer with a proven track record for defending clients against a wide range of felony charges. His extensive experience makes him a formidable advocate for those facing charges.
Misdemeanors
While misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, a conviction can still have significant consequences. Depending on the severity of the offense, you could face jail time, fines, probation, community service, or a combination of these penalties.
Christian Schwaner is well-versed in defending against all types of misdemeanor charges. Whether you’re facing accusations of domestic violence, a DUI, or another misdemeanor, our law firm can provide the strong defense you need to protect your rights.
Criminal Charges Christian Schwaner Can Assist With
No case is too big or too small for our law firm. We have assisted past clients in defending against a wide range of criminal charges, including but not limited to the charges listed below.
DUI and DWAI Defense
Driving under the influence(DUI) and driving while ability impaired (DWAI) are serious offenses in Colorado. Penalties can range from fines to license suspension and jail time, highlighting the need for a strong DUI defense.
Whether your DUI charges involve drunk driving or a prescription medication DUI, our firm has a strong track record of defending against these charges, helping clients fight for their driving privileges and minimize potential consequences.
Defense Against DUI-D Charges
Driving under the influence of drugs (DUI-D) is becoming an increasingly common charge as law police officers penalize drug-impaired driving. This charge isn’t limited to illegal substances; it also includes prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs that can impair your ability to drive.
If you’re facing a DUI-D charge, the legal ramifications can be just as severe as those for alcohol-related DUI charges. The penalties may include fines, jail time, loss of driving privileges, and mandatory drug education programs.
Domestic Violence Charges
Accusations of domestic violence can be life-altering, affecting other family members, your reputation, and your future. Charges like child abuse, strangulation, and restraining order violations carry particularly heavy stigmas and can result in severe legal consequences.
It’s important to emphasize that law enforcement officers are required to make an arrest in domestic violence cases in Colorado Springs, which can lead to misunderstandings that could put you in jail. But, at Christian Schwaner, PC, we’ve got your back. We scrutinize every detail of domestic violence incidents to protect your rights and work towards the best possible outcome.
Christian Schwaner’s defense for domestic violence charges is customized based on the severity of the case since these charges are treated as enhancements to underlying crimes. We provide sound legal strategies specific to your case.
Felony Menacing Criminal Defense Attorney
Felony menacing charges have the potential to change your life forever. If you’re accused of knowingly placing or attempting to place another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury, you could be facing a class 5 felony.
With the potential for prison time and heavy fines, having a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in your corner is essential. Christian Schwaner has the experience and tenacity to build a strong defense, working diligently to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
6-Point Speeding Ticket Lawyer
A 6-point speeding ticket is no minor infraction in Colorado Springs. It can lead to fines, increased insurance rates, and even license suspension.
Attorney Christian Schwaner has years of legal practice in traffic violations. He understands the nuances of traffic law and can challenge the criminal charge against you. In addition to providing criminal defense services, our law firm can assist you in DMV hearings and fight to keep your driver’s license.
Drug Charges
Being charged with a drug-related offense in Colorado can have many consequences. This includes crimes ranging from possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of illegal substances. The severity can vary from minor offenses involving small amounts of marijuana to more serious criminal cases involving illicit substances like cocaine or methamphetamine.
Whether you’re facing charges for a first-time possession or you’re accused of being part of a larger distribution network, we are prepared to handle your case with the utmost care and professionalism.
What Are the Penalties for a Criminal Conviction in Colorado Springs
The penalties for a criminal conviction in Colorado Springs vary depending on the nature and severity of the offense. They may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
- A permanent mark on your criminal record
The potential consequences of a criminal conviction underscore the importance of having a Colorado Springs criminal defense lawyer by your side. The Christian A. Schwaner, P.C. law firm can help you navigate criminal law and make informed decisions on the best strategy moving forward.
What can I expect from legal proceedings?
The legal process for criminal charges can be complex and intimidating, but understanding what to expect can help alleviate some of the stress. Defendants facing the criminal justice process require close guidance from their attorneys, who advise on strategies including plea bargains and critical steps like preliminary hearings. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:
- Arrest and Booking: If you’re arrested, you’ll be taken into custody and booked.
- Initial Appearance: You’ll be brought before a judge to be informed of the charges against you and your rights. The judge may also set bail at this time.
- Preliminary Hearing: Depending on the severity of the charges, a preliminary hearing may be held to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with the case.
- Arraignment: At the arraignment, you’ll enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). If you plead not guilty, a trial date will be set.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Before the trial begins, your criminal defense lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, and address other legal issues.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, both sides present their case before a judge or jury. In this case, the district attorney presents evidence against you to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime.
- Verdict: After all evidence has been presented and closing arguments made, the judge renders a verdict.
- Sentencing: If you’re found guilty, sentencing will occur at a later date. The judge considers various factors when determining your sentence.
Possible Criminal Defense Strategies
When facing criminal charges, your criminal lawyer’s strategy can make all the difference. At Christian A. Schwaner, P.C., we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Each case is unique, and so should the defense. Here are some possible key legal strategies we may explore to challenge the prosecution’s case:
Proving Insufficient Evidence
We can scrutinize every piece of evidence against you for legality and accuracy. A strong defense might include demonstrating that evidence was improperly obtained or unreliable, weakening the prosecution’s case.
Negotiating Plea Deals
In some cases, the best course of action is to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. Criminal attorney Christian Schwaner is a skilled negotiator with a background as a former prosecutor, which is invaluable when negotiating a plea deal. We ensure you are kept informed through every step of your case.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
In cases involving violence, claiming self-defense or defense of others can be an effective strategy if the circumstances support it.
Alibi Defense
Every case is unique and may not follow this exact path. However, presenting a strong alibi can be a powerful defense if you were not present when and where the alleged crime occurred.
Constitutional Violations
Our law firm reviews all cases for potential violations of your constitutional rights, such as unlawful searches and seizures or lack of Miranda warnings.
Police Procedures and Evidence
A key part of our defense strategies often involve scrutinizing police procedures and evidence collection. Any misstep by law enforcement can significantly impact criminal cases.
Remember, a criminal charge is not a conviction. You are innocent until proven guilty, and it’s our job to ensure that your rights are upheld throughout this process.
Why Choose Christian Schwaner Over Other Criminal Defense Attorneys in Colorado Springs
Choosing the right defense attorney can make all the difference in a criminal case. Here’s why you should consider Christian Schwaner:
Experience
With a legal career of over 20 years in criminal law, Christian Schwaner understands the Colorado legal system and the complexities of criminal cases. He has successfully defended countless clients against a wide range of charges.
Former Prosecutor
Christian Schwaner knows how both sides of a courtroom think and act. He can effectively anticipate and counter the prosecution’s strategies, potentially giving your case an edge.
Personalized Attention
You’re not just another case number in Christian Schwaner’s criminal defense law firm. Instead, he provides personalized attention to every client, taking the time to understand your unique situation and tailor a defense strategy accordingly.
Proven Track Record
The success of our criminal defense law firm speaks for itself. Christian A. Schwaner P.C. has a proven track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed and helping clients avoid harsh penalties in Colorado Springs.
Advice from a Criminal Defense Attorney
When facing criminal charges, there is so much pressure that it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect your case. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Speaking to Police Without a Colorado Springs Attorney
Anything you say can, and likely will, be used against you in court. It is crucial to have an attorney present during any interactions with law enforcement.
Representing Yourself in a Criminal Case
Criminal law is complex, and the stakes are high. You need an experienced attorney who can navigate the legal system and advocate for your rights.
Choosing the Wrong Attorney
Not all attorneys are created equal. You need a criminal lawyer with experience in criminal defense who knows the law like the back of their hand and who is well-referenced from past clients.
Not Taking the Charges Seriously
Even minor charges can have serious consequences. Understanding how aggressive prosecutors can be in their accusations is the first step before seeking legal representation as soon as possible.
Contact Us for a Consultation
If you’re facing criminal charges, time is of the essence. The sooner you secure a Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. We can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you understand what’s happening and what to expect next.
Identifying the best criminal defense attorneys to help you navigate court proceedings is no small task, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an arrest. But here at Christian A. Schwaner, P.C., we let our client reviews speak for themselves. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.
Christian Schwaner’s approach to criminal charges is not one-size-fits-all. He takes the time to analyze every aspect of your case. His goal is to ensure that your rights are protected and seek the best possible outcome, including getting charges reduced or even dismissed. Contact our criminal defense law firm today for a consultation.
FAQ
Should I use the public defender?
Criminal defense attorneys play a pivotal role in ensuring that the state does not abuse its power and that the defendant’s rights are protected.
The decision to use a public defender or hire a private attorney is a personal one and depends on various factors. However, a common mistake in this decision-making process is the singular focus on the criminal defense attorney cost.
Public defenders are qualified attorneys. However, they often have heavy caseloads and may not be able to devote as much time and legal counsel to your case as a private attorney.
Additionally, finding experienced criminal defense attorneys can be challenging since private defense attorneys in Colorado Springs have unique defense strategies for criminal defense cases, making them highly sought after. Given how much is at stake for criminal defendants, hiring a criminal lawyer is worth the investment.
How does bail work in Colorado Springs?
Bail is a financial guarantee that you’ll appear in court at all scheduled appearances. If you’re arrested, the judge may set bail during your initial appearance. The amount of bail depends on the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and your ties to the community.
It’s important to understand that if you fail to appear in court as required, you could lose the money you paid for bail, and a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
How do you select the best criminal defense lawyers in El Paso County?
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Selecting an attorney with a strong track record, well-versed in local laws, and years of experience with the criminal justice system is essential.
Keep in mind that most criminal defense lawyers, especially DUI lawyers, work with a big law office that sees dozens of criminal cases a day. An attorney like Christian Schwaner has the experience and doesn’t forgo quality and personalized legal services. Find a Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney with experience in handling cases similar to yours, a good rapport with local judges and prosecutors, and a clear communication style.