Let's be honest, one of the most important reasons that most of us belong to our Local Lodges of the Fraternal Order of Police is for legal defense of claims against us. The unfortunate reality of this job is the inherent liability associated with being a Denver Police Officer. Whether the claim is administrative, criminal or civil we want to have the best legal defense available to protect our jobs and our family's future.
The Colorado State Legal Defense Fund is the best legal defense fund available in the State of Colorado with over $1 million dollars in its war chest. Its board of Directors and Fund coordinators and administrator are professional Law Enforcement personnel just like you. The LDF is the right choice for Law Enforcement Legal Defense.
What are my rights in an investigation?
In an investigation, you have the right to:
- Have a person of your choice accompany you to an interview, including an attorney, but not a witness to the offense or violation
- Read the complaint summary prior to giving a statement
- Know prior to giving a statement whether you are the object of the investigation or just a witness officer
- Obtain a copy of your statement upon request
- Receive a Miranda warning for a law violation interview
- Receive a written, administrative (“Garrity”) advisement
- Refuse to answer, but face discipline for such refusal
- Be interviewed at a reasonable time of day and only for a reasonable amount of time with reasonable breaks
- Review your prior statements before any subsequent interviews
- Not be compelled to give a polygraph, but can request one
- Review the contents of your personnel file
What to do if you are involved in a critical incident:
- Immediately call a FOP representative or the FOP office who will obtain an attorney on your behalf.
- Do not discuss the incident with anyone and request isolation until your attorney can arrive.
- Surrender your weapon when requested; however, do not submit to a blood or urine test until you’ve discussed it with your attorney.
How Do I File A Claim?
Filing a claim with the LDF is as easy as picking up the phone. Unlike other legal defense plans where you have to plead your case before a board, and then wait for a vote to determine if you will be provided legal coverage. The FOP guidelines are very clear and the process is confidential and simple. Additionally, the FOP has many other resources available to provide assistance beyond that of legal defense. Please check with your representatives in you local lodge for additional information.
Legal Service of Legal Defense Fund:
- Critical Incident Representation
- Pre-Disciplinary hearings
- Internal Affairs Investigations
- Criminal Proceedings arising out of a covered incident
- Administrative actions
LDF Attorneys
Hamilton and Faatz
Phone: 303-830-0500 * Pager: 303-767-8745 Website: www.handf.com
Nathan Chambers
Phone: 303-825-2222
Leonard Chesler
Phone: 303-893-8933
Foster, Graham & Huttner
Phone: 303-333-9810
Craig Silverman
Phone: 303-595-0166 * Pager 303-595-0525
* 24 Hour Critical Incident After Hours Number
If it is not a critical incident, please contact one of the board members or contact our LDF coordinator.
State LDF Coordinator Lodge 41
Ben Hurr
Phone: 303-710-3213
State LDF Chairman of Coordinators
Kurt Barnes
Phone: 303-472-2890 |
