FAQs

• Should I accept a plea bargain?
• Why are domestic violence cases different?
• Can I avoid going to jail?
• If the police are not arresting me but still ask to talk, can I refuse?

Based in Castle Rock, Colorado, the Law Office of Theresa M. Slade is pleased to answer questions commonly asked by criminal defendants, their families, and parents of juveniles involved in delinquency proceedings. For further resources or to schedule an appointment for a consultation, contact the Law Office of Theresa M. Slade today.

Q: Should I accept a plea bargain?
A: This is difficult to answer without knowing the facts of your case. In some cases, it is in your best interest to plead guilty to avoid a lengthy and costly trial. Often, it is possible to negotiate a plea to a lesser offense on your behalf. A plea bargain can help you avoid jail time or a damaging conviction on your permanent record. Ms. Slade is familiar with the local courts and judicial system, and has most likely worked with the prosecutors who will be offering you a plea deal. If their deal is not fair, she will aggressively defend your rights at trial.

Q: Why are domestic violence cases different?
A: For a number of reasons, cases classified as domestic violence are different from traditional cases involving the same crime. These cases are typically placed on the court docket faster, and the defendant is generally forbidden to have any contact with the other party involved. In addition to whatever punishment the underlying crime carries, you may have to successfully complete a treatment program and a treatment evaluation, at your expense. Depending on the crime and the outcome, you might also face a restraining order forbidding you to contact the other party involved, or your children, for a certain amount of time.

Q: Can I avoid going to jail?
A: This is heavily dependent on the facts of your case. In certain cases, jail time may be mandatory. However, jail alternatives are often possible. You are also more likely to be able to avoid jail time if it is your first offense. In particular, many of Colorado's counties provide a Drug Court option, which is a diversion program that typically offers a combination of substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, periodic random testing, and probation as an alternative to jail. However, if you fail to successfully complete all of the parts of the program, you face a jail sentence appropriate for the crime to which you originally plead guilty.

Q: If the police are not arresting me but still ask to talk, can I refuse?
A: Yes. Ms. Slade advises clients to refuse to talk to the police without an attorney present, even if the officers tell you it is just an investigation or that you are free to leave. Even if you are not under arrest, anything you say to the police can later be used against you if you are ultimately charged with a crime. Therefore, before answering questions it is always best to call Ms. Slade first, so that she can make sure the police are not violating any of your rights.