Kris knows that under the law of the United States, every one of his clients is presumed innocent and the State, not the accused, has the burden of proving the charges. The State can only do that with convincing evidence. Kris thoroughly analyzes the allegations and evidence, or lack of evidence, against his client. Kris asks the key questions: Are there witnesses? Do bias, intoxication, or inconsistencies provide me an opportunity to attack the credibility of the witness? Did the police violate my client’s rights?

Kris Hammond has been defending criminal cases in Steamboat Springs and NW Colorado for over 31 years—since 1986. From DUI to Drugs, Assault, Theft, Burglary, Domestic Violence, Homicide, Kris has tried more than one hundred cases to Colorado juries. Former clients include other lawyers, doctors, County Sheriffs, public officials, and family members of judges. He is a regular fixture at the courthouse, currently on his 5th District Attorney and 5th County Sheriff. Kris is a former member of the 14th Judicial District Judicial Performance Commission and Judicial Nomination Commission.

Kris’ job is to get his clients the best outcome possible under the circumstances. He will discuss the case with the prosecutor and remind them of any legal or factual weaknesses he has spotted. He negotiates with prosecutors every day to try to get his clients a quick, successful resolution. This could range from a dismissal of the charges, a deferred sentence, or reduction of original charges or punishment. The prosecutors know that if their offer is unfair, Kris will take the case to a jury as he has more than one hundred times before, with excellent results.