Drug Crimes

Drug Crimes

Denver Drug Crimes Attorneys Fighting for Your Rights

Creative, aggressive representation in the Colorado justice system

Mulligan Breit, LLC is a Denver firm that has focused exclusively on criminal defense for the past 20 years. Comprised of former public defenders, our team never stops fighting for justice in the Colorado system.

If you are arrested for a drug crime, you may have several options. We often work with the families of juveniles and represent students whose futures are placed in jeopardy because of a moment’s indiscretion or a substance addiction. We also help adults with mental health issues get back on their feet after a drug arrest has derailed their families and careers. Our lawyers assertively advocate for your rights and pursue the best possible outcome of your charges.

Drug Possession Defense

Protecting your rights in the Colorado criminal justice system

The government’s “war on drugs” has resulted in nonviolent criminals being locked away for long sentences, often without receiving the treatments they need to overcome dependency and mental illnesses. Upon release, they remain addicted to drugs and are likely to offend again, resulting in a high recidivism rate.

During the past 20 years since our firm opened, Mulligan Breit, LLC has aggressively fought the draconian sentencing of defendants accused of drug possession. From the start of your case, our lawyers demand that the prosecution prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge illegal search and seizures, unlawful warrants, unreliable witness testimony, and other procedural and evidentiary aspects of your charges. If applicable in your case, our defense may include seeking to reduce your sale and trafficking charges to a possession offense carrying a lighter sentence. Every move we make is geared toward putting you in the best position possible.

Drug schedules

Drugs are divided into five categories based on their accepted medical uses and potential for abuse and dependency, with Schedule I considered the worst offenses carrying the harshest penalties and Schedule V considered less dangerous and more medically necessary. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) schedule includes:

  • Schedule I — Heroin, LSD, cannabis, ecstasy, methaqualone and peyote
  • Schedule II — Cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, hydromorphone, meperidine, oxycodone, OxyContin, fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall and Ritalin
  • Schedule III — Ketamine, anabolic steroids, testosterone and smaller amounts of hydrocodone and codeine in combination pharmaceuticals
  • Schedule IV — Xanax, Soma, Darvon, Darvocet, Valium, Ativan, Talwin and Ambien
  • Schedule V — Lomotil, Motofen, Lyrica, Parepectolin and low dosages of codeine in cough preparations

Drug court provisions

Recognizing the opportunity to give defendants help rather than punishment, Colorado developed 70 problem-solving courts that offer important sentencing alternatives. The main goal of the drug courts program is to provide drug rehabilitation, mental health counseling, supervision and judicial oversight that support public safety while treating individuals who have substance abuse issues. Our attorneys discuss this option with you and guide you through making the right decision in your case.

Drug Conspiracy Defense

Elements of a drug conspiracy charge

To prevail in winning a conviction, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt each element of a drug conspiracy charge:

  • There is an agreement between conspirators to violate a drug law.
  • You knew of the agreement and intended to join the conspiracy.
  • One act in furtherance of the intended conspiracy was committed.

Despite the legalization of small amounts of marijuana in Colorado, as of January 1, 2014, you can still face charges under federal statutes, which hold possession of cannabis illegal.

Student Representation

Defending students against drug charges

College parties, concerts and clubs can become a hotbed for illicit substance use, such as cocaine, LSD, meth, cannabis and Ecstasy. In addition, some students abuse prescription medications, including Adderall, Ritalin, oxycodone, OxyContin, Xanax and Valium to get high or improve scholastic performance. Our tactics for dealing with drug crimes may include diverting your child into drug court, fighting the charges at trial or proving that your child was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Underage marijuana possession and drinking

Although small quantities of recreational marijuana has become legal as of January 1, 2014, possession of marijuana by anyone under the age of 21 remains illegal. Drinking alcohol while underage is also illegal. Our attorneys take steps to keep your child’s future from being affected by a drug- or alcohol-related crime conviction.

Get the legal defense you need after your drug crime arrest

For more information about defenses to your drug charges, call Mulligan Breit, LLC at 303.295.1500 or contact our firm online to schedule an appointment. Because drug-related arrests typically occur during weekends and evenings, our criminal defense attorneys return after-hours calls. Our criminal defense law firm is centrally located in downtown Denver and within walking distance of the primary criminal courts.