Being arrested for the first time and going through the criminal court process can be stressful and unsettling. Someone’s first question may be, “What happens at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse after a Denver arrest?” While every criminal case is unique, they generally follow similar steps.
Knowing what to expect can make the process less intimidating and help a defendant prepare for important decisions along the way. If they secure legal representation from Blackley & Wingad, their attorney can guide them through the steps that unfold, from initial arrest to hearings to the eventual resolution of their charges.
Common Crimes That Are Heard at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse
Denver’s overall crime rate of 50.85 per 1,000 residents in a typical year means that a steady stream of defendants must make appearances at Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse, which is located at 520 W. Colfax Avenue and serves as the primary courthouse for criminal matters in the city. With 16,796 people arrested in 2025 for driving under the influence, drunk driving is a common criminal offense in Colorado.
Sometimes, a dispute escalates into a brawl at Five Points, Ballpark District, or elsewhere in Denver. In other cases, someone is accused of an unprovoked attack. Whatever the cause, assaults are a serious offense that can lead to court appearances at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse. In the first half of 2024, Colorado recorded 9,302 aggravated assaults, which is a very serious offense in the state; it can lead to confinement in jail and heavy fines.
What to Expect When Facing Criminal Charges in Denver
The criminal justice process in Denver is standardized, although individual cases can last anywhere from months to well over a year. Criminal courts aim to balance law enforcement with the rights of the accused. After an arrest or summons and a not-guilty plea, the case can involve several court appearances as prosecutors and the defense review the evidence and address legal issues.
This is known as the pre-trial phase. Both sides use the time to build their respective cases.
The accused may also face bond conditions throughout this period that restrict travel, contact with certain people, or other activities while the case is pending.
The defense can begin scrutinizing the prosecution’s case by questioning the reliability of witnesses, challenging unlawfully obtained evidence, and filing motions with the court. Some cases are dismissed or resolved before trial, while others proceed before a judge or jury.
Potential Outcomes of Criminal Cases Being Heard at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse
Colorado District Courts held just 884 criminal trials in Fiscal Year 2024, including 861 jury trials and 23 bench trials. After an arrest, the defendant can hire an attorney to explore strategies for contesting the charges. When a case is significantly compromised, either due to unreliable evidence or violations of the defendant’s constitutional rights, prosecutors may drop charges.
Another favorable outcome, reduced charges, can also shield the accused party from serious penalties. A strong defense can also lead to a favorable plea deal that could allow
the defendant to avoid time behind bars and other consequences. The accused party has the right to pursue a trial, where a judge or jury may ultimately decide whether the defendant committed a crime.
Why Someone Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Going to court without legal representation could lead to unfavorable outcomes that could jeopardize a defendant’s freedom and reputation. When they choose to hire a skilled criminal defense lawyer, they gain steady support from an advocate who understands the state’s criminal laws and how to carefully manage their criminal case.
Blackley & Wingad brings decades of experience to these matters, and a Denver criminal defense attorney from our firm can protect a client’s rights and freedom at each step.
What sets our law firm apart is our decades of combined legal experience, which includes considerable trial experience. When we represent a client, they are connected to one of our skilled attorneys, who personally manages their case from start to finish. We do not settle for unfavorable plea deal offers; rather, we are prepared to explore every viable defense strategy for safeguarding our clients’ freedom and reputation.
FAQs
Do Cases Get Dismissed at Arraignment in Colorado?
Cases can get dismissed at different stages of the court process when there are sufficient grounds for dismissal. However, arraignment generally focuses on formally advising the defendant of the charges and entering a plea. A defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and determine whether there are grounds for seeking dismissal as the case proceeds.
What Happens at a Bond Hearing?
A bond hearing is typically focused on whether bond will be set, the amount or type of bond, and the conditions that will apply if the defendant is released. The judge considers the case’s circumstances and other relevant factors before entering an individualized bond order. Conditions of release may restrict certain activities and require the defendant to appear at future court proceedings.
What Happens at a First Court Appearance After an Arrest in Denver?
The first court appearance after an arrest in Denver depends on the circumstances of the case. The court may advise the defendant of the allegations and constitutional rights, address bond or conditions of release, and establish how the case will proceed. An attorney can appear with the defendant and begin addressing legal issues that could affect the case at this early stage.
How Soon After an Arrest Does Someone Go to Court in Denver?
After an arrest in Denver, the first scheduled court appearance typically happens within a month. The exact timing depends on the charges and the date assigned by the court. If someone is released after an arrest, they should receive information about when and where to appear, and they must attend all mandatory court proceedings.
Prepare for a Case at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse
The steps an accused person takes after an arrest can shape the outcome of their charges. From advisement and bond proceedings to arraignment and pretrial hearings, each appearance at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse can present important decisions about how to contest the prosecution’s case. As a Colorado-based law firm, Blackley & Wingad understands the local criminal court system, so we know how to protect our clients’ rights and interests at every step.
Blackley & Wingad’s founding attorneys gained extensive courtroom experience as Assistant Public Defenders in Miami-Dade County before building a trial-focused criminal defense practice. Beau Blackley has conducted thousands of depositions and investigations, while Jennie Wingad has extensive experience investigating defenses and preparing cases for trial. Contact our Denver office today to set up a consultation.
