Denver Sentencing Attorneys
When a person is found guilty of a crime, they typically don’t receive their sentence right away. A sentencing hearing follows, at which a judge will examine testimony and evidence about the circumstances of the crime and use that information to determine the punishment the defendant will receive.
Waiting to receive a sentence can be a scary and stressful period in a criminal legal proceeding. Without proper legal representation, a defendant’s fate rests solely in the hands of the prosecution and the judge – which is why it’s necessary to hire an experienced lawyer to be on your side.
Varner Faddis Elite Legal, LLC’s attorneys have handled myriad cases in criminal defense law, including first-degree murder, burglary, and DUI charges. Our Denver-based lawyers bring substantial experience in plea negotiations, bond and motion hearings, jury trials, and sentencing hearings, holding themselves to the highest standards of professionalism and excellence in service of their clients.
Our results-oriented team works closely with clients to prepare them and determine their best options for the sentencing hearing process.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer?
In a criminal case, it is necessary for a person charged with a crime to prepare a case in their defense. To build a rock-solid case that effectively asserts defense’s position and defends against the allegations, it is necessary to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney.
If a conviction is imposed, a judge will decide a defendant’s fate. The prosecutor will have already prepared her or his presentation on why the court should hand down the sentence the prosecutor is requesting. You need someone in your corner to level the playing field. Sentencing hearings require strong legal advocacy to humanize a defendant to a judge, provide appropriate mitigation, call witnesses and present exhibits if necessary, and take measures to try and secure a minimum sentence. Varner Faddis Elite Legal, LLC’s Founding Partner, Eric J. Faddis, has handled thousands of criminal cases as a prosecutor and defense lawyer, and VFEL’s legal team can increase a defendant’s chances of obtaining a lesser sentence.
Options for Defense in Sentencing
The sentencing hearing is the final stage of the criminal process in the state of Colorado. At this point, the defendant may already have a lawyer who represented him or her in the courtroom where earlier hearings and trials in the process occurred.
The purpose of the sentencing hearing is for the defense to argue for the best possible sentence given the circumstances. The prosecution will also argue for what they believe an appropriate sentence should be.
The defendant has the right of allocution, otherwise known as the right to speak on his or her behalf during the sentencing hearing.
During the sentencing hearing, the defense attorney may present testimony and exhibits on behalf of their client to reduce the potential sentence. This can include making arguments that:
- The defendant is not a danger to society and maximum prison time is not necessary.
- The defendant feels remorse for their crime and is unlikely to re-offend.
- The defendant should receive an alternative to prison, such as placement in a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program.
- Underlying factors caused the most negative aspects of the crime, such as addiction, trauma from an abusive past, or a desperate financial situation.
Preparing for the Sentencing Process
To prepare for a sentencing hearing, it is necessary for a defendant to meet with their legal representative to discuss their options and the potential outcomes. The attorney can help the defendant craft a powerful testimony for presentation at the hearing as well as explain the arguments they will be making.
Sentencing hearings require top quality, professional legal representation to honor and protect the defendant’s rights. A criminal defense attorney should fight tirelessly for their client to receive the best possible sentence. They won’t allow the prosecution to vilify their client.
Contact Us
Varner Faddis Elite Legal, LLC is here to help. We represent our clients from charging to sentencing, ensuring the protection of their rights during every step of the process.
Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation at our Denver offices.
Office
6025 South Quebec St.
Suite 100
Centennial, CO 80111
Phone: 720-710-9073