Experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney explains a warrantless search of abandoned property – specifically an iPhone. People v. Schutter Synopsis: Up in Aspen, Mr. Schutter dropped by a convenience store, got a key to the restroom, used the facilities, but forgot both the key and his iPhone in the restroom. The clerk at the convenience…
An experienced criminal defense attorney explains Connick v. Thompson and prosecutor’s liability for Brady Violations. Facts: Louisiana convicted Mr. Thompson of armed robbery in one case, murder in another case, and sought and obtained a death sentence against him. The same District Attorney assigned the same lead DA to each case along with 2 other…
Lawyers in a criminal case (the prosecutor and the defense attorney) cannot encourage witnesses from refusing to speak to the other lawyer about the case. However, as one court said, “[i]ndeed, witnesses have a choice whether to speak with counsel […]” about what they have seen and heard. Nonetheless, it is improper for an attorney…
It is a general rule of law that attorneys are not permitted to impede the investigations of witnesses conducted by other lawyers. This is particularly true in criminal law, where depositions are generally not conducted. Example of Lawyers Impeding Investigations The following is an example of a lawyer improperly interfering with the investigation of another…
The attorney-client privilege is intended to protect the client in the attorney-client relationship. Its purpose is to encourage clients to be open and honest with their lawyers. Where the Protection May be Found In Colorado, there is a specific statute setting forth the requirement that an attorney not be examined without the consent of his client about any…