Strategic Reputation Management in Denver’s 2nd Judicial District
In Cherry Creek, your professional reputation is your most valuable asset. Whether you are navigating the high-end corporate landscape or applying for professional licensure, a criminal record is a digital shadow that can block opportunities in 2026. While the Colorado Clean Slate Act promises “automatic” relief, the state’s massive backlog means that waiting for the system to clear your name could take years of lost income.
At Burnham Law, we specialize in Petition-Based Sealing to bypass these delays. We understand that in 2026, the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse and the Denver County Court follow strict procedural rules for clearing records. We provide the elite, high-leverage advocacy needed to fast-track your sealing and ensure that a past mistake doesn’t dictate your future in Denver’s most prominent district.
Jeremy Wooten, is a seasoned trial attorney who specializes in criminal defense and family law, leveraging a wealth of experience honed over five years at the Colorado State Public Defenders’ Office. Rising to Senior Deputy Public Defender, he successfully managed a diverse caseload, including serious charges like first-degree homicide, drug distribution, and economic crimes, always maintaining an unwavering commitment to client advocacy. Licensed in both Texas and Colorado, Jeremy's legal expertise is defined by strategic planning—meticulously crafting and executing well-thought-out trial strategies—and remarkable resourcefulness in finding innovative solutions to complex legal challenges in both the criminal and family law arenas. His practice is characterized by agile, client-centered advocacy, which relies on adaptability, active listening, and quick thinking essential for effective trial work. Jeremy prioritizes thoroughly understanding his clients' objectives and adapting his strategies dynamically to the evolving nature of trials. His resilience and strategic agility allow him to confidently navigate unexpected developments in the courtroom, ensuring each case is expertly...
Julian Rosielle has been licensed to practice law in Colorado since 2006. Julian is a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Law, where he was on the Dean’s List and an associate editor of the University of Colorado Law Review. Julian practiced exclusively in the area of criminal law for the first thirteen years of his career and has several notable case outcomes to include not guilty verdicts on charges of homicide and assault. Julian has extensive trial experience, ranging from Death Penalty cases to misdemeanor domestic violence to driving under the influence. Beginning in 2019, Julian’s practice has expanded to include domestic relations litigation and civil protection orders. Julian has lived in Colorado since 2004 and when not in Court enjoys hiking with his family and dogs.
Kate strives to have a client-oriented practice where she can assist her clients in all stages of litigation. Prior to joining Burnham, Kate was an associate at an AmLaw Firm where she worked on various types of complex litigation representing large corporations, municipalities, and individuals. Before going into private practice, Kate was an Assistant Public Defender in Miami-Dade County where she tried over twenty cases. Kate has been able to develop a well-rounded practice by working in both the private and public sectors. Kate has honed her skill sets from her prior experience so she can be a zealous advocate for her clients. In her spare time, Kate enjoys spending time with her husband in the outdoors, traveling, and visiting family.
Miguel C. Mondragon is a tenacious and dedicated attorney who is fiercely committed to his clients and their legal outcomes. Recognizing that clients facing divorce or criminal charges are often in their most vulnerable state, Miguel acts as a passionate advocate, ensuring they have a voice within the legal system. Growing up in southern Colorado, Miguel developed a strong work ethic by working in construction, lumber, and brickyards while attending college. Before becoming an attorney, his interest in law was sparked by his work within the Larimer County Corrections system. While attending the University of South Dakota School of Law, he gained valuable experience working with East River Legal Services, the Colorado State Public Defenders Office, and Samuelson Law. Upon graduation, Miguel honed his skills first as a solo practitioner, then at Weaver & Associates, P.C., before founding Mondragon Law, where he specialized in criminal defense and family law. He brings this deep experience and tenacity to his current role...
2026 Legal Updates: Landmark Shifts in Colorado Property Law
The early months of 2026 have introduced critical changes to real estate transactions and litigation that every Cherry Creek operator must address:
1. The 2026 “Junk Fee” & Deceptive Pricing Ban (HB 25-1090)
As of January 1, 2026, Colorado law forbids the separation of mandatory fees from the “Total Price” of a rental unit or service.
The “Total Price” Rule: Advertised rents must be a single, prominent number including all mandatory fees (trash, amenities, parking). Only actual utility usage and government taxes may be itemized separately.
Prohibited Fees: Landlords can no longer charge for lease administration, property taxes, or payment processing (unless a free option exists).
The 18% Penalty: Violations are deceptive trade practices. Tenants can demand refunds; if not paid within 14 days, the landlord is liable for the amount plus 18% interest, compounded annually, and potential triple damages.
2. Mandatory 28-Day Magistrate Review (C.R.M. 7)
Effective January 2, 2026, the path to appealing real estate disputes in Denver has changed.
The New Prerequisite: You can no longer appeal a magistrate’s order directly to the Court of Appeals. You must file a Petition for Review with a District Court judge within 28 days.
Jurisdictional Risk: Missing this window in the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse bars your right to any further appeal.
3. FinCEN Reporting & “Beneficial Ownership” (Effective March 1, 2026)
New federal transparency rules now impact residential real estate transactions in Colorado:
The Rule: Transfers of residential property to an entity or trust (that do not involve a lender with an anti-money laundering program) must report the “Beneficial Owners” to FinCEN.
Closing Delays: Title companies may now delay closings until this federal reporting is verified.
4. 2026 Contract Changes (CBS1-8-25)
The Colorado Real Estate Commission has made the updated Contract to Buy and Sell Real Estate mandatory as of January 1, 2026:
Assignability: Contracts are now strictly non-assignable by default unless specifically allowed in “Additional Provisions.”
“As-Is” Standard: The 2026 forms emphasize an “As-Is” conveyance while strictly defining the buyer’s rights to object or terminate based on inspection.
Core Real Estate Legal Services
Our team provides elite representation across the full spectrum of property law:
Commercial & Residential Litigation: Resolving high-stakes partition actions, quiet title disputes, and specific performance claims in Cherry Creek.
Luxury Acquisitions & Dispositions: Navigating the 2026 FinCEN reporting requirements and updated Commission-approved contracts for high-net-worth clients.
Landlord-Tenant Defense: Auditing portfolios for compliance with the 2026 “Junk Fee” ban and defending against 18% interest penalty claims.
Zoning & Development: Strategizing around the 2026 “Colorado Dream Act” and local Cherry Creek Area Plan updates.
Compliance Item
2026 Standard
Rent Advertising
Must show “Total Price” including all mandatory fees.
Magistrate Orders
28 Days to file Petition for Review (Mandatory).
Trust/Entity Buyers
Must comply with FinCEN “Beneficial Ownership” reporting.
Security Deposits
30-day return limit with expanded “normal wear and tear” definitions.
Why Choose Burnham Law for Your Cherry Creek Real Estate
In the 2nd Judicial District, your lawyer’s ability to master 2026’s new data and statutes is your strongest asset. Burnham Law offers:
Trial-Ready Advocacy: We prepare every real estate dispute as if it will be decided by a jury, ensuring maximum leverage at the settlement table.
Strategic Precision: We ensure your contracts are 2026-compliant regarding assignability, “junk fee” bans, and auto-renewal “kill switches” (SB 25-145).
Local Intellectual Capital: Deeply familiar with the Denver County bench and the administrative nuances of the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse.
Take Action Today
The 28-day window for magistrate reviews and the new 18% interest penalties for pricing errors leave no room for delay. Whether you are closing a high-value deal or defending a property dispute, immediate counsel is vital. Contact Burnham Law to schedule a strategic real estate consultation:
📞 Call 303.990.5308
📍 Cherry Creek Office: 50 S Steele St, Suite 207, Denver, CO 80209
