Speed Contests
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GUSTAFSON LAW OFFICE
COLORADO SPRINGS SPEED CONTESTS - ILLEGAL DRAG RACING

WELCOME Phone (719) 260-1002 Fax (719) 260-1003 

perhaps I will become your attorney
Address  *  Maps  *  Directions
 

Robert D. Gustafson  *  Attorney at Law  *  Colorado Springs
Business Hours  *  Attorney Availability  *  Trade Area
 
Toll Free (800) 410-1002
 
 
COLORADO SPRINGS DRAG RACING DEFENSE
SPEED CONTEST * ACCELERATION CONTEST * EXHIBITION OF SPEED
COLORADO SPRINGS TRAFFIC DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Colorado traffic & criminal trial practice 25+ years Colorado State Courts & Colorado Springs Municipal Court
STATE COURT PROSECUTION
speed contest, acceleration contest
exhibition of speed or acceleration
MUNICIPAL COURT PROSECUTION
speed contest, acceleration contest
exhibition of speed or acceleration
NUISANCE FORFEITURE
Not Yet - Not Today
ACCIDENT REPORTS & COLORADO DMV FORMS
Colorado State Accident Report
CSPD Accident Cold Report
ATTORNEYS FEES AND COSTS DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?
ATTORNEY POLICIES
 Cases Outside Colorado Springs - Travel
No Pro Bono Assistance  *  No Installment Payment
 Legal Advice Limited to Clients - Not General Public
Representation Now - Another Attorney or Self
Attorney Representation & Declined Matters
No Post Sentencing - Revocation or Appeal

Colorado Springs

FIRST CONSULTATION - NOTICE

El Paso County

Attorney welcomes representation inquiries however the purpose is not to provide free legal advice to the general public.  Unless seeking to retain counsel, please do not email or call.  Attorney does not provide legal opinions, answers or information in response to questions submitted from non-clients, & attorney is not the phone company 411 center for phone number information.  Given the scope of internet accessibility, I can not be the free "Colorado answer man" and will politely decline such requests.

Speed contest cases occur across Colorado - please refer to attorney travel. Travel Policies & Trade Area *  Itemized Travel Expenses *  Colorado Map
common fees have been quoted and information provided
attorney is prepared to provide legal representation
attorney comparison is understandable, but before calling
please be prepared to retain if I am counsel of your choice
 

TRAFFIC DEFENSE

DUI - DWAI - DEAC  *  Driving Under Restraint  *  No Operator's License  *  Speeding DMV DEFENSE DMV Appeal
Speed Contest - Drag Racing  *  Eluding Police  *  Hit & Run  *  Compulsory Insurance License Hearings * Point Structure * Forms
Reckless Driving - Careless Driving  *    *  Weaving - Roadways Laned for Traffic Habitual Offender  *  Interstate Compact
Minor - Alcohol Red Light - Stop Sign  *  Traffic Definitions  *  Traffic Infraction vs. Crime  *  Traffic Cameras Insurance SR-22 Interlock  Driving Records

 

Speed contest traffic ticket defense, acceleration contests, exhibition of speed, CSPD now targeting drag racing. Colorado Springs Attorney Robert D. Gustafson traffic defense trial practice 25+ years

Adobe Acrobat Reader version 5 or later is required to view .pdf files    Free Download

RIGHT TO REMAIN SILENT

NO STATEMENTS
LAW ENFORCEMENT * PROSECUTORS * THIRD PERSONS

        Admissions made by a criminal defendant may be admissible in the prosecutor's case in chief.  At the of investigation or arrest or subsequent thereto, no criminal defendant should discuss a case with or make any statements whatsoever to any law enforcement officer, prosecutor, witness, the alleged victim, an insurance adjuster or any other third person.  Prosecutors will not hesitate to file intimidation of witness felony charges, and your statements are admissible in a trial or motions hearing.  You have the absolute right to remain silent even if police don't tell you.  Exercise that right.  In some circumstances, no statutory privilege exists with respect to medical providers (doctor, nurse, etc), counselors (psychologist, psychiatrist), clergy (minister, priest) or spouse (husband, wife) - only the attorney-client privilege exists.  Consult with your attorney before talking.

SEARCH & SEIZURE DEFENDANT DEMEANOR

BAIL BOND
refer to above link for information

 

CRS 42-4-1105. Speed contests - speed exhibitions - aiding and facilitating - immobilization of motor vehicle - definitions.
 
        (1)    (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section, it is unlawful for a person to knowingly engage in a speed contest on a highway.
                (b) For purposes of this section, "speed contest" means the operation of one or more motor vehicles to conduct a race or a time trial, including but not limited to rapid acceleration, exceeding reasonable and prude speeds for highways and existing traffic conditions, vying for position, or performing one or more lane changes in an attempt to gain advantage over one or more of the other racing participants.
                (c) A person who violates any provision of this subsection (1) commits a class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense.
        (2)    (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section, it is unlawful for a person to knowingly engage in a speed contest exhibition on a highway.
                (b) For purposes of this section, "speed exhibition" means the operation of a motor vehicle to present a display of speed or power. "Speed exhibition" includes, but is not limited to, squealing the tires of a motor vehicle while it is stationary or in motion, rapid acceleration, rapid swerving or weaving in and out of traffic, producing smoke from tire slippage, or leaving visible tire acceleration marks on the surface of the highway or ground.
                (c) A person who violates any provisions of this subsection (2) commits a class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense.
        (3)    (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section, a person shall not, for the purpose of facilitation or aiding or as an incident to any speed contest or speed exhibition upon a highway, in any manner obstruct or place a barricade or obstruction, or assist or participate in placing any such barricade or obstruction, upon a highway.
                (b) A person who violates any provision of this subsection (3) commits, pursuant to section 42-4-1703, the offense that the person aided in or facilitated the commission of. Nothing in this subsection (3) shall be construed to preclude charging a person under section 42-4-1703 for otherwise being a party to the crime or engaging in a speed contest or engaging in a speed exhibition.
        (4) The provisions of this section shall not apply to the operation of a motor vehicle in an organized competition according to accepted rules on a designated and duly authorized race track, race course or drag racing strip.
        (5)    (a) In addition to a sentence imposed pursuant to this section or pursuant to any other provision of law:
                        (I) Upon the second conviction for an offense specified in subsection (1) or (2) of this section, or any other crime, the underlying factual basis of which has been found by the court to include an act of operating a motor vehicle in violation of subsection (1) or (2) of this section, the court may, in its discretion, order the primary law enforcement agency involved with he case to place an immobilization device on the motor vehicle or motor vehicles so operated for a period of up to fourteen days.
                        (II) Upon the third conviction for an offense specified in subsection (1) or (2) of this section, or any other crime, the underlying factual basis of which has been found by the court to include an act of operating a motor vehicle in violation of subsection (1) or (2) of this section, the court may, in its discretion, order the primary law enforcement agency involved with he case to place an immobilization device on the motor vehicle or motor vehicles so operated for a period of up to thirty days but more than fourteen days.
                (b) The period during which a motor vehicle may be fitted with an immobilization device pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (5) shall be in addition to any period during which the motor vehicle was impounded prior to sentencing.
                (c) An order issued under this subsection shall state the requirements included in subsections (7) and (8) of this section.
                (d) For purposes of this section, "immobilization device" means a device locked into place of a wheel of a motor vehicle that prevents the motor vehicle from being moved. "Immobilization device" includes but is not limited to a device commonly referred to as a "traffic boot" or "boot".
        (6)    (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (9) of this section, a law enforcement agency that is ordered to place an immobilization device on a motor vehicle pursuant to subsection (5) of this section shall attempt to locate the motor vehicle within its jurisdiction. The law enforcement agency may, in its discretion, attempt to locate the motor vehicle outside of its jurisdiction.
                (b) Nothing in this subsection (6) shall be construed to:
                        (I) Prohibit a law enforcement agency from seeking the assistance of another law enforcement agency for the purpose of placing an immobilization device on a motor vehicle or removing the device in accordance with this section; or
                        (II) Require a law enforcement agency to expend excessive time or commit excessive staff to the task of locating a motor vehicle subject to immobilization under this section.
                (c) The time spent by a law enforcement agency in locating a motor vehicle in accordance with this subsection (6) shall not alter the immobilization period ordered by the court under subsection (5) of this section.
                (d) A law enforcement agency that places an immobilization device on a motor vehicle pursuant to this section shall affix a notice to the immobilized motor vehicle stating the information described in subsections (7( and (8) of this section.
                (e) A peace officer who locates or attempts to locate a motor vehicle, or who places or removes, or assists with the placement or removal of, an immobilization device in accordance with the provisions of this section shall be immune from civil liability for damages, except for damages arising from willful and wanton conduct.
        (7)    (a) The owner of a motor vehicle immobilized under this section shall be assessed a fee of thirty five dollars for each day the motor vehicle is immobilized and, except as others provided in paragraph (d) of this subsection (7), thirty five dollars for each day up to fourteen days after the immobilization period that the fee for the immobilization period is not paid. The owner shall pay the fee to the law enforcement agency that places the immobilization device on the motor vehicle.
                (b) The owner, within fourteen days after the end of the immobilization period ordered by the court, may obtain removal of the immobilization device by the law enforcement agency that placed it by requesting the removal and paying the fee required under paragraph (a) of this subsection (7).
                (c) The failure of the owner of the immobilized motor vehicle to request removal of the immobilization device and pay the fee within fourteen days after the end of the immobilization period ordered by the court or within the additional time granted by the court pursuant to paragraph (d) of this subsection (7), whichever is applicable, shall result in the motor vehicle being deemed an "abandoned motor vehicle", as defined in sections 42-4-1802(1)(d) and 42-4-2102(1)(d), and subject to the provisions of Part 18 or 21 of this article, whichever is applicable. The law enforcement agency entitled to payment of the fee under this subsection (7) shall be eligible to recover the fee if the abandoned motor vehicle is sold, pursuant to section 42-4-1809(2)(b.5) or 42-4-2108 (2) (a.5).
                (d) Upon application of the owner of an immobilized motor vehicle, the court that ordered the immobilization may, in its discretion, grant additional time to pay the immobilization fee required under paragraph (a) of this subsection (7). If additional time is granted the court shall notify the law enforcement agency that placed the immobilization device.
        (8)    (a) A person may not remove an immobilization device that is placed on a motor vehicle pursuant to this section during the immobilization period ordered by the court.
                (b) No person may remove the immobilization device after the end of the immobilization period except the law enforcement agency that placed the immobilization device and that has been requested by the owner to remove the device to which the owner has properly paid the fee required by subsection (7). Nothing in this subsection (8) shall be construed to prevent the removal on an immobilization device in order to comply with the provisions of part 18 or 21 of this article.
                (c) A person who violates any provision of this subsection (8) commits a class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense.
        (9)    (a) A law enforcement agency that is ordered to place an immobilization device on a motor vehicle pursuant to subsection (5) of this section shall inform the court at sentencing if it is unable to comply with the court’s order either because the law enforcement agency is not yet equipped with an immobilization device or because it does not have a sufficient number of immobilization devices. The court, upon being so informed, shall, in lieu of ordering immobilization, order the law enforcement agency to impound the motor vehicle for the same time period that the court initially ordered the motor vehicle to be immobilized.
                (b) If a motor vehicle is ordered to be impounded pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (9), the provisions of subsections (6) to (8) of this section shall not apply.
        Effective Date:  July 1, 2006

        In case you didn't catch it on first read, the statute essentially provides for police impound lot sale of your vehicle if the owner doesn't timely request removal of the boot and pay the expensive immobilization fee.

 
State Court Possible Penalties Adult Minor
Jail 10 - 90 days 10 - 90 days
Fine $10 - $300 $10 - $300
Points against Colorado Driving Privileges 12 Points 12 Points
 
Drag racing is not defined as a major offense for purpose of habitual traffic offender determination. CRS 42-2-202
Drag racing is not a DARP Aggravator criminal court sentencing

DRAG RACING
 
SPEED CONTEST
EXHIBITION OF SPEED
ACCELERATION CONTEST

Colorado Springs
MUNICIPAL COURT

TRAFFIC OFFENSE  12 Points

 

10.5.107: SPEED CONTESTS
 
        A.  No person shall engage in any motor vehicle speed or acceleration contest or exhibition of speed or acceleration on a street or highway, and no person shall aid or abet in any motor vehicle speed or acceleration contest or exhibition on any street.
        B.  No person shall for the purpose of facilitating or aiding or as an incident to any motor vehicle speed or acceleration contest upon a street or public right of way in any manner obstruct or place any barricade, obstruction, starting or timing device or assist or participate in placing any barricade, obstruction, starting or timing device upon any street or public right of way. (1968 Code §6-5-7; Ord. 75-86; Ord. 01-42) 

 
Colorado Springs Municipal Court Possible Penalties Adult Minor
Jail 10 - 90 days  0 - 10 days
Fine  $10 - $500 $10 - $500
Points against Colorado Driving Privileges 12 Points 12 Points
 

Drag racing is not defined as a major offense for purpose of habitual traffic offender determination. CRS 42-2-202
Drag racing is not a DARP Aggravator criminal court sentencing

Robert D. Gustafson
Attorney At Law
Colorado Springs, Colorado

Phone (719) 260-1002

Fax (719) 260-1003

Toll Free (800) 410-1002

Surrounding Area
MUNICIPAL COURTS
SPEED CONTEST DEFENSE

TRAVEL TIME & MILEAGE
Billed Outside El Paso County

Southern Colorado

Metro Denver Area
Colorado Springs Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Colorado Springs, Colorado
Calhan Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Calhan, Colorado
Denver City & County Traffic Court
Traffic Court - Denver, Colorado
Denver City & County Criminal Court
Criminal Court - Denver, Colorado
Canon City Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Canon City, Colorado
Castle Rock Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Castle Rock, Colorado
Aurora Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Aurora, Colorado
Brighton Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Brighton, Colorado
Cripple Creek Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Cripple Creek, Colorado
Florence Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Florence, Colorado
Broomfield Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Broomfield, Colorado
Centennial Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Centennial, Colorado
Fountain Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Fountain, Colorado
Manitou Springs Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Manitou Springs, Colorado
Englewood Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Englewood, Colorado
Federal Heights Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Federal Heights, Colorado
Monument Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Monument, Colorado
Palmer Lake Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Palmer Lake, Colorado
Golden Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Golden, Colorado
Littleton Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Littleton, Colorado
Pueblo Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Pueblo, Colorado
Simla Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Simla, Colorado
Sheridan Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Sheridan, Colorado
Thornton Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Thornton, Colorado
Woodland Park Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Woodland Park, Colorado
Municipal Ordinances and Codes
Colorado Model Traffic Code
Denver Travel Time & Mileage
Colorado Springs Attorney
Wheat Ridge Municipal Court
Municipal Court - Wheat Ridge, Colorado

        NOTICE: It is the policy of the presiding judge in Palmer Lake Municipal Court not to accept negotiated plea settlements.  If your ticket in in this court, counsel must prepare for trial; trial fees and costs would be quoted.

 
  1. Jurisdictional attack  - refer to link for information DUI case
            Attack the jurisdiction (power) of the court in the pending criminal case
            Jurisdictional attack may be an important concept in defense of any given eluding case

  2. Lack of reasonable suspicion for initial attempted contact by the law enforcement officer

  3. Lack of probable cause for warrantless arrest or seizure of the defendant's person

  4. Color of authority - peace officer acting within course & scope of his or her employment.  

  5. Unlawful extra-jurisdictional arrest

  6. Defendant's admissions the result of undue influence, duress and coercion - due process violation

  7. Defendant's admissions taken in violation of
            5th Amendment privilege against self incrimination
            6th Amendment right to legal counsel

  8. Alleged offense did not occur on public roadway or highway? - yes, the defense works in drag racing cases

  9. Driving
            A third person, not defendant, was driving a motor vehicle

  10. Officer observations - what didn't he observe which a jury member might expect?  What was the officer's opportunity to observe? - lighting, time spent, temperature, etc.  

  11. Officer credibility.  Experience with traffic enforcement and training, over concern with conviction statistics, a cop's cop or an average Joe doing a job, would the jury members want this particular officer stopping him / her?  Has the officer overstated his / her observations in relation to the driving behavior?  How well was the stop and investigation conducted?

  12. Eluding is a factual determination based upon the circumstances of the case.  The case may turn upon factual argument - defendant's conduct & driving pattern and officer conduct.

  13. Reasonable doubt - state proof beyond a reasonable doubt

  14. Cloak of innocence and burden of proof upon state - beyond a reasonable doubt.  A defendant is not required to prove innocence - the state must prove guilt.

  15. When all else fails:

  16. Trial lawyer's adage:
            If the facts are on your side - pound the facts.
            If the law is on your side - pound the law.
            If neither the facts nor the law are on your side - pound the table !

NUISANCE FORFEITURE
not yet - not today

CRS 16-13-303. Class 1 public nuisance.   State Statutes - CRS

        So far the state legislature has not enacted legislation regarding vehicle forfeiture on the basis of motor vehicle speed contest, acceleration contest or exhibition of speed or acceleration.  Based upon the fact drag racing appears to be a new target offense or "designer crime" and forfeiture appears in vogue, it is only a matter of time before drag racing results in motor vehicle forfeiture.  It's coming, folks - look at forfeitures regarding:
                1.  DUR - DARP  driving under restraint or driving after revocation prohibited - DUI underlying license loss
                2.  Forfeiture - Defense  -  prostitution & related sex offenses, gambling, drugs & paraphernalia, theft by receiving, hit & run with serious bodily injury or death, drive by crimes, crimes against the elderly
                3.  Felony vehicular eluding

        The state legislature has enacted legislation regarding vehicle immobilization, including expensive reimbursement to the law enforcement agency installing the boot and sale of the vehicle if not timely paid.  Effective 7/1/06 the legislature moved closer to forfeiture.  Legislative outright forfeiture may only be a matter of time.

AUTOMATED TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT - TRAFFIC CAMERAS
relevant links

Local Traffic Cams Automated Traffic Enforcement Traffic Cam Information Colorado Statute DMV Point Structure Traffic Defense

ACCIDENT REPORTS & OTHER DMV FORMS
State of Colorado accident report obsolete 8/4/04
police now verify insurance at the accident scene
refer to above link for information, forms, state on-line accident report and CSPD Cold Report

        Under Colorado law, if the insurance information of a driver was not included in a law enforcement traffic accident report, a State of Colorado Accident Report must be submitted to the DMV within 10 days of an accident. CRS 42-4-1609 Also by statute, statements by a driver in the accident report may not be used in conjunction with any court proceedings, criminal or civil, except that the DMV may disclose the identity of a person involved in an accident when such identity is not otherwise known or when such person denies his or her presence at such accident. CRS 42-4-1610, CRS 42-7-504.  The primary purpose of filing the accident report is to comply with state law, and to provide evidence of insurance on the vehicle - thereby avoiding an FRA suspension.- refer to link for information.  If any of the below charges are alleged, a driver should consult with his or her defense attorney regarding exercise of constitutional privileges before making any oral or written statement.

Hit and Run

DUI, DEAC or DWAI

DUR or DARP

        Adobe Acrobat Reader version 5 or later is required to view .pdf files    Free Download
        DMV - State of Colorado Accident Report
        DMV - Evidence of Insurance
        DMV - Affidavit of Financial Responsibility
        DMV - FRA - Release from Liability
        DMV - FRA - Waiver of Security - Financial Responsibility
        DMV - Promissory Note Contract
        DMV - Affidavit - Out of State Residency - FRA SR-22 Avoidance
        Other DMV forms

        CSPD Accident Cold Report    due within 72 hours of accident  (large file - please be patient)
                Any person may obtain a hardcopy cold report from the CSPD Police Operations Center

 
 
DMV PROCEEDINGS & DRIVER LICENSE MATTERS 
Selected Traffic & DMV Statutes & Regulations
 
 
LOSS OF COLORADO DRIVING PRIVILEGES
DMV Hearing
Defense
DMV Appeal
statute of limitations

Driving in Colorado is a constitutionally protected privilege, but nevertheless a privilege which may be lost.  Multiple statutes can cause loss of driving privileges for different driver behavior.  Drivers are entitled to a DMV hearing.  In some circumstances the right to hearing precedes potential DMV adverse action; under other Colorado traffic laws the adverse order is entered, then the driver is provided notice of the adverse action and right to request subsequent hearing.  If hearing has been held or a DMV final order has otherwise entered and the Colorado driver's license or Colorado driving privileges have been suspended, revoked or denied, the driver's remaining recourse is appeal to the District Court DMV appeal is subject to a statute of limitations.  Right to appeal may be lost if the driver delays.  Upon final order in the District Court, either party make take the case on appeal to the Colorado Court of Appeals.  Refer to links for additional information.

SPEED CONTEST DEFENSE
DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?

 

Do I need an attorney?

Probably time to loosen the pocket book and hire a defense attorney.

If you are charged with drag racing - motor vehicle speed contest, acceleration contest or exhibition of speed or acceleration - it is advisable to retain competent legal counsel.  These are serious charges.  All such charges contain potential jail sentences and 12 point suspension of driver's license or Colorado driving privileges.  Vehicle insurance consequences could also be anticipated.  You need not retain my services, but hire defense counsel.

If convicted of any drag racing offense, you could anticipate policy termination or significant increase in your insurance premiums - probably over a 3 - 5 years.
Contact your insurance company underwriters to learn more of the potential consequences.

ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS
DRAG RACING  *  SPEED CONTEST  *  EXHIBITION OF SPEED DEFENSE

     

        At the time of the first visit, a prospective client will be quoted attorney's fees and estimated costs. The quote will be honored for a period of seven (7) days, after which it is subject to change without notice if this office has not been retained.  Attorney is a sole practitioner with need to manage his caseload.  Pending proposed client acceptance and payment, retainer agreement proposals are subject to withdrawal.  Attorney reserves the right to decline any case.
 
        In most circumstances, attorney initially makes an option offer of 1.) billing to be upon hourly fees, or in the alternative, 2.) quote of a settlement flat fee or a trial flat fee.  Attorney reserves the right to quote hourly fees only without a flat fee offer, or hourly and trial flat fee options only. 
ELECTION. Offered fee options will be up to the client, however client's initial election will be final.
 
        Included in attorney's primary website is a web page devoted to clear definition & understanding of free
first consultation, fees and costs, retainer agreement and terms of representation.  Additional information regarding fees & costs may be found via the links following potential quotes.

POTENTIAL FEE QUOTE
DRAG RACING  *  SPEED CONTEST  *  EXHIBITION OF SPEED DEFENSE
SETTLEMENT FLAT FEE
would be deducted from trial flat fee
$950
 
TRIAL FLAT FEE
settlement fee would be deducted
$3,000
 

I generally offer hourly fees or a settlement flat fee.  Most drag racing cases plea bargain and do not proceed to trial.  The settlement flat fee would be dependent upon the facts and circumstances of the case, however the above would be a common quote.  This shall neither constitute an offer, nor be construed as a binding estimate.
 

Trial flat fee would be dependent upon the facts and circumstances of the case, however the above would be a common quote.  This shall neither constitute an offer, nor be construed as a binding estimate.  

frequent trust deposit request regarding fees & costs

 

PAYMENT

Prior to commencement of representation, the attorney will quote the amount requested as a trust deposit against which attorney's fees and costs may be billed.  The requested trust deposit will be dependent upon the facts and circumstances of your case.

Colorado Springs Attorney Robert D. Gustafson
ATTORNEY FEES

LITIGATION COSTS DEPOSIT
 
$          950  
$            75  
 
settlement common trust deposit request
including attorney's fees & litigation costs - excluding travel
map * travel policy - time & expenses * travel rates
settlement trust deposit would be deducted from trial trust deposit
 

OR

$1,025*

 

Colorado Springs Attorney Robert D. Gustafson
ATTORNEY FEES

LITIGATION COSTS DEPOSIT
 
$       3,000  
$          275  
 
trial common trust deposit request
including attorney's fees & litigation costs - excluding travel
Additional cost deposit may be requested as trial preparation proceeds &
anticipated litigation expenses solidify
map * travel policy - time & expenses * travel rates

$3,275*

drag racing  *  speed contest  *  exhibition of speed
* this shall not constitute an offer, nor be construed as a binding estimate

Client authorization is obtained for any large cost expense.  Final expenditure may run less or client may periodically be asked for additional amounts to be deposited to trust if fees and costs will exceed previous deposits. 

Client will be provided with a trust accounting and itemized billing statement when there has been activity on the account.  At the end of each case, a detailed accounting summary is provided and remaining trust proceeds are refunded.

trust deposit for anticipated fees & costs is due when retained

attorney does not accept installment payments

regular billings are scheduled on the 1st and 15th
if fees and costs are not paid as agreed, representation is withdrawn

 
PARTIAL LIST OF POTENTIAL COSTS
out of pocket costs are the responsibility of the client
note: costs change & below cost information may be obsolete
link to Colorado Judicial Branch website -  current costs information published by state
COLORADO STATE COURT COSTS
direct link to criminal or traffic court costs - costs change & lists may be obsolete
COUNTY COURT CRIMINAL COSTS DISTRICT COURT CRIMINAL COSTS
Price   Client Background Search
Varies   DMV Out of State Driving Record
10.00   Accident Report
20.00   Offense Report
10.00   DA Office discovery packet - estimate (actual may be more or less)
25.00   State court jury deposit C.R.Crim.P. 23, CRS 16-10-109 (non-refundable except by acquittal)
10.00   Court records search & copy costs (actual may be more or less)
10.00   Copy expense at courthouse for prior offense files (estimate - may vary)
75.00   Public Service supervision fee
37.50   OJW fee to court (outstanding judgment warrant) - anticipating Integral Recoveries collection agency referral costs
60.00   DMV reinstatement fee
4.40   DMV clearance letter - certified copy of Colorado driving abstract
500.00   Private Investigator initial retainer - if relevant
     variable based upon number of witnesses to interview
200.00   Law enforcement 911 / dispatch records, tapes & transcript - widely variable
200.00   Subpoena process service expense - depends on number of subpoenas issued
Varies   On-line legal research - dependent upon issues requiring legal research, if any
Rates   Travel time and expenses if the case is outside Colorado Springs

CAVEAT: Not all above costs will be relevant to any given case, and additional expenses not identified may be incurred in any individual case.  Costs quoted are subject to change by independent providers; actual costs paid will be billed.  limited search pricing

 
 
****************************** ****************************** ******************************
 
POTENTIAL FEE QUOTE
DOR * DMV LICENSE HEARING
SUSPENSION
  *  REVOCATION  *  DENIAL
  Colorado Springs Attorney Robert D. Gustafson
common quote - limited flat fee

$650

this shall neither constitute an offer, nor be construed as a binding estimate
DMV limited flat fee would be dependent upon the facts and circumstances of the case

A DMV limited flat fee would likely be offered.  Additional hours necessitated by continuance requested by police or by subpoena procurement are billed at hourly rates.  A client may retain the attorney's services in a DUI or traffic criminal case without asking for assistance at DMV proceedings.  Attorney does not undertake representation in DMV proceedings until the DMV limited flat fee has been paid, and full payment is required at least *seven (7) days in advance of hearing.  Fees beyond the DMV limited flat fee would be unusual.

 

Attorney will initially make an option offer of 1.) billing to be upon hourly fees, or in the alternative, 2.) quote of a hearing flat fee per above.  Offered fee options will be up to the client, however client's initial election will be final.  Hourly fee billings are based solely upon time, and may be more or less than the offered flat fee.  Hourly fees are not capped at the limited flat fee.  Attorney reserves the right to quote hourly fees only without a flat fee offer.  Attorney reserves the right to decline any case.

 

* Applicable case law, statutes, rules of civil procedure, and Department of Revenue or Department of Health regulations contain mandatory time constraints, are complex and are generally unfavorable to the driver. The above 7 day hiring limitation is based solely upon client control over fees paid at time attorney is retained in the criminal case and upon avoidance & resolution of attorney calendar conflicts.  Prospective clients are notified 7 days is insufficient time to prepare an adequate license hearing defense which involves DMV discovery or DOR issuance of subpoena (compelling testimony) or subpoena duces tecum (compelling testimony & production of documents or evidence).  Delay in retaining attorney may prejudice the defense. Whether the underlying basis is alcohol related or not, time is critical in DOR hearings regarding suspension, revocation or denial of Colorado driving privileges.

 

DOR hearing fee Estimate Caveats.  If collateral attack is required, the attorney would need to know more about the number and locations of underlying court cases to be attacked before offering a DOR hearing fee.  Legal research and research time would increase the estimates.

 

Non-Alcohol

Alcohol

Habitual Offender

Client authorization is obtained for any large cost expense.  Final expenditure may run less or client may periodically be asked for additional amounts to be deposited to trust if fees and costs will exceed previous deposits. 

Client will be provided with a trust accounting and itemized billing statement when there has been activity on the account.  At the end of each case, a detailed accounting summary is provided and remaining trust proceeds are refunded.

trust deposit for anticipated fees & costs is due when retained

attorney does not accept installment payments

regular billings are scheduled on the 1st and 15th
if fees and costs are not paid as agreed, representation is withdrawn

 
 
****************************** ****************************** ******************************
 
FIRST CONSULTATION ACCOUNTING STRUCTURE HOURLY FEES COSTS
FLAT FEE - DEFINITION SETTLEMENT PHASE SETTLEMENT FLAT FEE
CONTESTED PHASE TRIAL FLAT FEE FLAT FEES - PHASES EARNED
COMPARE HOURLY - FLAT FEES CLIENT'S ELECTION - FINAL TRAVEL TIME & EXPENSES
SECURITY FOR FEES & COSTS TRUST ACCOUNT WITHDRAWAL OR TERMINATION
CLIENT DUTY TO DISCLOSE OMISSION OR NON-DISCLOSURE ALTERNATIVES
ATTORNEY SELECTION RETAINING GUSTAFSON ADVICE BY LAYMEN

ATTORNEY REPRESENTATION
AND DECLINED MATTERS

 
CRIMINAL DEFENSE DUI DEFENSE & TRAFFIC DEFENSE DRIVER LICENSE DEFENSE
FAMILY LAW & DIVORCE DEBT COLLECTION COMMUNITY RESOURCES
FIRST CONSULTATION ACCOUNTING STRUCTURE WEBSITE INDEX GATEWAY
ATTORNEY SELECTION RETAINING GUSTAFSON ADVICE BY LAYMEN
 

ALTERNATIVES

FIND A LAWYER

if you are seeking the below
please refer to above links for helpful information
sole practitioner attorney does not accept these matters
 

a.  a pro-bono (free) lawyer
b.  an attorney who may take lower fees - economic hardship
c.  an attorney who may take installment payments

 

MID-LITIGATION REPRESENTATION
alternatives and find a lawyer links provided as a courtesy

Attorney Policies
Litigant Pro Se - Attempt to Prepare Defense of Own Traffic or Criminal Case

1.  Adequate Time.  If sufficient time exists to adequately prepare your case and if prospective client approves this attorney's fees and costs structure, attorney will likely accept defense representation.  This shall not constitute an offer of representation; attorney and prospective client retain discretion through first consultation.

2.  Insufficient Time.  If you've waited until the eleventh hour and there is not sufficient time to adequately prepare your case or defense before a contested court proceeding, please do not call.  I decline.

3.  Limited Assistance.  Please do not call requesting instruction, directions, legal theory, forms completion or limited document drafting, partial representation, or an explanation of applicable law to assist you in preparation or defense of your own case.  I decline.

Attorney Policies
Representation by Previous Attorney

1.  Current Attorney.  Until an order has entered withdrawing representation by an attorney, an ethical rule violation exists if counsel knowingly speaks to another attorney's client without current attorney's consent.  This ethical rule governs all attorneys.  Please do not call until after you have terminated representation by a former attorney.  After other counsel's withdrawal it may take significant effort for the the new attorney to "catch up."  Please be aware fees and costs will be associated with procuring the court file and coming up to speed in the case.

2.  Adequate Time.  If prospective client terminates employment of the former attorney, if sufficient time exists to adequately prepare your traffic or criminal case, and if prospective client approves this attorney's fees and costs structure, attorney will likely accept representation.  This shall not constitute an offer of representation; attorney and prospective client retain discretion through first consultation.

3.  Insufficient Time.  If you've waited until the eleventh hour and there is not sufficient time to adequately prepare your case or defense before a contested court proceeding, please do not call.  I decline.

4.  Second Opinion.  I will not arm chair quarterback another attorney's case preparation, trial tactics or theory of the case.  Please do not call for a second opinion or an opinion regarding the competence of preparation or defense in your current traffic or criminal case.  I decline.

 
 
POST SENTENCING MATTERS
PROBATION REVOCATION  *  PAROLE VIOLATION
DEFERRED SENTENCE REVOCATION  *  APPEALS

Post Sentencing.  I do not accept post sentencing matters in any criminal, DUI or traffic case unless I provided representation during the case in chief at the trial court level and am familiar with the facts, testimony and exhibits received into evidence, meritorious issues & rulings. That's been my policy for years.  Please do not call or inquire regarding post sentencing matters if you are not a former client. 

Alternatives
FIND A LAWYER

This includes plea to domestic violence or other criminal charge, DUI, DEAC or DWAI charge or other traffic charge and probation, deferred sentence, parole or incarceration or revocation proceedings based upon alleged failure to comply.

 

Exceptions.  If the underlying criminal case qualifies, refer to sealing criminal records.  I accept meritorious sealing cases regardless of whether or not you are a former client.  NOTICE: alcohol related traffic offenses, other traffic offenses or traffic infractions are a specifically excluded in the sealing statute and can not be sealed.  If relevant, I also accept meritorious collateral attack cases.

 
 
 

ATTORNEY TRADE AREA & TRAVEL
CASES OUTSIDE EL PASO COUNTY
 
GEOGRAPHIC DISTANCE
ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS
Colorado is a big state
ease of internet access, email & toll free phone doesn't change that fact

 

Attorney is very willing to travel outside the Colorado Springs area to present or defend a case, but please be aware travel time, mileage and expense would apply.  If you are out of state or unfamiliar with Colorado geography, refer to the map to determine where Colorado Springs is located in relation to the county of your court case or hearing.

Colorado MAP
Southern Colorado Area

If travel is necessary, a trust deposit would be required to cover anticipated travel time, mileage & expenses.  If it is not economically justifiable to retain my services with travel, please contact counsel in the locale of your case.

COUNTIES

CITIES / TOWNS

El Paso County

Colorado Springs / Manitou Springs / Fountain

I welcome new cases.  Intent is not to be harsh
or to discard potential new business, but to be practical.

Chaffee County

Salida

Crowley County Ordway Metro Denver Area
Custer County Westcliffe COUNTIES CITIES / TOWNS
Douglas County Castle Rock City and County of Denver Denver
Elbert County Kiowa / Simla Adams County Brighton / Thornton / Federal Heights
Fremont County Canon City / Florence / Penrose Arapahoe  County Court   District Court Littleton / Centennial / Englewood
Huerfano County Walsenburg Arapahoe County - East Aurora
Las Animas County Trinidad Broomfield County Broomfield
Lincoln County Hugo (county seat) / Limon Gilpin County Blackhawk / Central City
Otero County La Junta Jefferson County Golden / Wheat Ridge
Park County Fairplay
Pueblo County Pueblo
Teller County Cripple Creek / Woodland Park

BEFORE USING ANY INFORMATION IN THIS WEBSITE, PLEASE REFER TO THE BELOW LINKS
NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
HomePage Disclaimer
 information to website visitors
ATTORNEY ETHICS & CLIENT DISCLOSURES
Prior Convictions or Bad Acts
important warning information before disclosure
CONTACT & PRIVACY
Confidentiality & Privacy Policy
email, and cordless, wireless or cell phones

please feel free to call or email if you are a client or are seeking representation

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
not an offer for free legal advice - refer to link for terms
I am a sole practitioner with need to manage my caseload & reserve the right to decline any legal matter

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Serving Colorado Springs Area Zip Codes

80918 80920 80919 80917 80915 80908 80132 80909 80913 80916 80921 80922 80925 80901 80902 80903 80904 80905 80906 80907 80910 80911 80912 80914 80921 80926 80928 80929 80930 80931 80933 80934 80935 80936 80937 80940 80941 80942 80943 80944 80945 80946 80947 80949 80950 80960 80962 80970 80977 80995 90997

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