Denver Hate Crimes Lawyer

Ever since the Civil Rights Act was passed, local and state governments have taken major efforts to ensure that every citizen is provided an equal opportunity to survive and thrive in our society. One of the most controversial of these efforts has been hate crime legislation intended to help prevent minorities from being threatened or abused by the prejudiced residents of the nation. While the intentions behind these laws are noble, they often create a problematic situation when police and prosecutors are required to prove that a crime was committed based on prejudice and not just for the sake of committing the crime itself. There are many defenses available to those accused of these crimes. If you have been charged with a hate crime, please call a skilled Denver criminal attorney from The Law Offices of John William Barnett.

In Colorado, hate crime legislation provides every citizen protection from being targeted as a victim based on race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation. It is important to note that the law does not take into account who is in a minority group and who makes up the majority of society. If a Mexican lesbian were to attack a Caucasian man because she was angry at being marginalized in society, she would be subject to these laws, just as if the tables were turned. That is why it is so important to speak with a Denver criminal lawyer before you talk to the police. Anything you say can be used against you in court, even if you think it is something that may help defend your actions.

Our Denver Criminal Attorney Provides Strong Defense

Most hate crimes in Colorado are charged as misdemeanors. While this may sound negligible, keep in mind that these charges are placed on top of any other criminal allegations you are facing and that even a misdemeanor can result in your being locked in jail for 18 months and paying up to $5,000 in fines. If you were accused of physically harming the victim, the charges may be increased to a Class 5 felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and $100,000 in fines. If you were aided in the assault and battery of the victim, then the charge will be a Class 4 felony and you may be sentenced to up to six years in prison and be forced to pay up to $500,000 in fines. It is easy to see just how serious these charges are, and just how important it is that you work with a top Denver criminal attorney.

If you have been accused of a hate crime, don’t take chances with your future. Please call our offices today and schedule a consultation with a Denver criminal lawyer.