Cherry Creek Felony Lawyers – Denver’s High-Stakes Defense
Elite Trial Advocacy in the 2nd Judicial District
In Cherry Creek, a felony charge is a direct threat to your freedom, professional licensing, and reputation. As Denver’s most affluent district, cases here often involve high-profile scrutiny. Felony matters are heard at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse in downtown Denver, where the District Attorney’s office employs specialized units for white-collar crime, major narcotics, and violent offenses. In 2026, the stakes are historically high following the full implementation of Proposition 128, which significantly restricts parole for many Denver defendants.
At Burnham Law, we specialize in “Trial-Ready” defense for complex felony matters. We understand that in 2026, the margin for error in the 2nd Judicial District is non-existent. Whether you are facing a Class 2 Felony for a serious offense or a Class 5 white-collar charge, we provide the sophisticated advocacy needed to challenge the state’s evidence at every turn.
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: The Denver Felony Landscape
The legal framework for felonies in Colorado has shifted significantly as of 2026, creating a more rigid sentencing environment for violent offenses while offering new “second look” opportunities for others:
1. Proposition 128: The 85% Parole Rule
Approved by voters and fully enforced as of January 1, 2025, Proposition 128 has fundamentally changed prison timelines for violent felonies:
The 85% Mandate: For crimes including second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and aggravated robbery committed after Jan 1, 2025, defendants must serve at least 85% of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
No “Good Time” Reductions: Unlike previous years, “earned time” or “good behavior” can no longer be used to reduce this 85% floor for these specific offenses.
Three-Strike Rule: Individuals with two prior violent felony convictions must now serve their full sentence (100%) for a third conviction before beginning parole.
2. SB 26-115: The “Second Look” Resentencing Act
New for 2026, this landmark legislation provides a potential “exit ramp” for those serving lengthy sentences under specific conditions:
Youthful Offenders: Individuals who committed an offense before age 21 and have served at least 20 calendar years may petition the court for a sentence reduction.
Elderly Offenders: Those age 60 or older who have served at least 20 calendar years are also eligible to petition.
The Burden: The petitioner must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that they no longer pose a danger to the community and that there is “good cause” for modification.
3. HB 26-1064: Youthful Offender System (YOS) Updates
Effective in early 2026, this bill has modernized the Youthful Offender System, a common sentencing alternative for Cherry Creek defendants aged 14–24:
Trauma-Informed Care: Mandatory integration of trauma-informed standards in all YOS sentencing plans.
Reentry Focus: Enhanced life-skills programming and family therapy requirements designed to lower recidivism rates for young adults facing felony convictions.
2026 Felony Sentencing Matrix: Denver District Court
Felony sentencing in Denver is divided into classes. “Extraordinary Risk” designations can increase the maximums shown below.
Why Choose Burnham Law for Your Case
In Cherry Creek, the prosecution often relies on digital footprints, complex financial records, and high-tech surveillance. Burnham Law offers:
Forensic & Digital Defense: We utilize independent experts to challenge digital discovery, cell site location information (CSLI), and forensic accounting data used by the DPD.
Preliminary Hearing Strategy: We aggressively use the Preliminary Hearing—a critical “mini-trial”—to expose weak probable cause and seek a reduction of charges before the case even reaches Arraignment.
The 28-Day Procedural Shield: In 2026, the 2nd Judicial District strictly enforces a 28-day window to seek a District Court review of any magistrate’s order. We ensure no jurisdictional deadlines are missed, protecting your right to appeal early rulings.
Take Action Today
A felony charge in 2026 moves through the Denver system with clinical efficiency. With the 85% parole rule and new “Second Look” laws, the strategy you set in the first week of your case will dictate the next several decades of your life. Contact Burnham Law to schedule a strategic felony defense consultation: 📞 Call 303.990.5308 📍 Cherry Creek/Denver Office: 50 S Steele St, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80209 📅 Schedule a Consultation Online
