Criminal Defense Lawyer in Cortez, CO
Being arrested or charged with a crime creates immediate stress and uncertainty. Many people make critical mistakes in the hours and days following an arrest that damage their defense before they even meet with an attorney. Barrie Newberger King has spent over 11 years defending clients in Montezuma County—including nearly eight years as a Deputy Public Defender—and understands exactly how early missteps can impact your case. She provides defense representation for DUI, assault, domestic violence, drug charges, and juvenile cases throughout the 22nd Judicial District. If you're facing charges in Cortez, contact NewbergerKing Law to discuss how to protect your rights from this point forward.
Common Mistakes That Hurt Your Defense
Most people facing charges don't realize they've already harmed their case before speaking with an attorney. Talking to police without legal representation is the most common error. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you're explaining your side of the story or proving your innocence. Law enforcement is trained to gather evidence for prosecution, not to help you build a defense.
Missing the seven-day deadline for DMV hearings in DUI cases costs many people their driving privileges before their criminal case even begins. Failing to document injuries inassault cases or discarding evidence that could support your defense are other frequent mistakes. Social media posts, text messages, and phone calls from jail are all discoverable and can be used as evidence against you.
What Happens After an Arrest in Cortez
After an arrest in Montezuma County, you'll typically be taken to the county jail for booking and processing. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Initial appearances usually occur within 48 hours, where a judge sets bond conditions and informs you of the charges. This is not the time to explain what happened or try to convince the judge of your innocence.
The prosecution begins building their case immediately. They review police reports, interview witnesses, and gather physical evidence. The sooner you have an attorney working on your defense, the better positioned you'll be to challenge the evidence against you and protect your rights throughout the process.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
Barrie examines every aspect of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. Were proper procedures followed during your arrest? Was evidence obtained legally? Are there constitutional violations that could result in suppressed evidence or dismissed charges? Her background as a Deputy Public Defender gives her insight into how prosecutors approach cases and what strategies are most effective in Montezuma County courts.
Defense strategies depend on the specific charges and circumstances. Some cases involve challenging the legality of a traffic stop or search. Others focus on questioning the reliability of witness testimony or the accuracy of field sobriety tests in DUI cases. Indomestic violence cases, protective order hearings require immediate attention to prevent unwarranted restrictions on your freedom and contact with family members.
Local Court Knowledge Makes a Difference
The 22nd Judicial District operates differently than courts in Denver or Colorado Springs. Barrie knows the judges, understands how local prosecutors handle plea negotiations, and recognizes which defense strategies work best in Montezuma County. This local knowledge affects everything from bond hearings to trial strategy.
Your Next Step in Protecting Your Future
The choices you make now will affect your case outcome and your future. Criminal convictions impact employment, housing, professional licenses, and educational opportunities. Even charges that don't result in jail time can follow you for years.
Barrie provides confidential consultations where she'll review what happened, explain the charges you're facing, and outline potential defense strategies specific to your situation. She'll also explain what you should and shouldn't do while your case is pending. Contact NewbergerKing Law to schedule your consultation and start building your defense.