James Paul Colgan

Criminal defense Attorney at Thornton, CO

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Client

DV/GrandTheft

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

45%

Being accused of a crime can be emotionally and financially exhausting. We have over 25 years of experience in Criminal matters, and we will put that experience to use for you!

33 years
Car accident

20%

Motor vehicle accidents can cause severe injuries, but when a pedestrian is involved, the risk gets even higher. Whether you are a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, you need a personal injury attorney with experience to get you the max compensation.
... Read more
Personal injury

20%

We handle all types of Personal Injury cases from Vehicle Accidents to Insurance Cases. Don't try to handle these issues on your own. Insurance companies are good at giving you the run around.
... Read more
DUI and DWI

10%

We can defend you against a DUI charge, even if your blood alcohol level is above the lowest limit. With all of the elements required to prove a DUI—age, blood alcohol content, driver identification, etc.—a DUI attorney will make a difference.
... Read more
Insurance

5%

Insurance bad faith is the willful and deliberate violation by the insurance co. of their obligations and responsibilities under the contract. Bad faith occurs when - claims are denied without investigation, lowball settlements, delays in payment,ect
... Read more
10 years

INJURED? ARRESTED? FALSELY ACCUSED? 25+ YEARS LICENSED. FORMER PROSECUTOR AND POLICE OFFICER. I CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE JUSTICE!

My name is James Colgan. I began my legal career as a police officer. I worked as a deputy sheriff and a police officer for nearly five years. I then traveled out of Colorado to attend law school. I knew immediately that litigation and trial work was the area where I wanted to spend my career. I have been a trial lawyer since graduating from law school. I have successfully advocated for victims of serious crimes and conducted numerous trials as a Chief Deputy District Attorney. The trials I conducted ranged from DUI to child victim crimes to sexual assault to homicide.

When I moved on from the District Attorney’s Office, I had to decide whether I wanted to represent individuals or corporations. I realized that I am passionate about representing individuals so I currently represent the victims of someone else’s intentional actions or negligence in personal injury matters. In addition, I represent people accused of committing crimes. I have trial experience that is rare to find. I have tried numerous jury trials as a prosecutor, as Plaintiffs’ counsel in personal injury trials, and as a criminal defense attorney. I am as comfortable in a courtroom as any lawyer you will find.

In my spare time, I judge mock trials for college and highschool students throughout the U.S.

Awards

Client's Choice

2022 2021

Licensed for 28 years

State CO

Status Active

Acquired 1994

Updated 01/13/2023

State TX

Status Inactive

Acquired 2013

Updated 02/05/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact James

Law Firm of James Colgan, LLC

(855) 964-0672 Office

(855) 964-0672 Mobile

(720) 400-7223 Fax

3879 Colorado Blvd

P.O. Box 298

Thornton, CO, 80223

jpcolganlaw.com/about-us/

Chat Now Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

4.6 / 5.0

24 customer reviews

5 Star

88%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

James received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2022

Posted by The man in black | April 2, 2019

Client

James was the best thing that happened to me . I without him I’m pretty sure I would be doing some serious time. He’s definitely a pit bull in the courtroom. I highly recommend him to anyone and everyone. Thanks again James and keep kicking ass!

Posted by Jose A. | January 20, 2023

DV/GrandTheft

Mr Colgan helped me close multiple cases that were connected. It was my first time in trouble with the law and had been charged out of weld county with some exaggerated/horrible crimes. Along with all the legal work and advice he gave me he also gave me life advice and a different perspective. Thanks to James, we reached a differed plea helping me avoid a felony on my record. I’m super grateful. Mr Colgan you’re the man and thank you for all your hard work.

Read less

Posted by Jolene | November 19, 2022

The Real Deal!

If you are looking for representation, hire this man! Our experience with Jim from beginning to end was amazing. He is prompt, compassionate, professional, and went above and beyond for our family and situation. The man is a beast in the courtroom and I wouldn’t want to be on the other side that’s for sure!

Posted by anonymous | November 1, 2022

DUI trial

James helped walk me through the details of the process, and made it a little less overwhelming.

Posted by Rob | October 25, 2022

GREAT ATTORNEY!

Before I contacted James Colgan I had contacted other attorneys but right off the bat James made me feel comfortable that he knew what he was talking about. After our conversation he even agreed to meet me the following day which was a Saturday and after that I was confident that things would go well with my case as he was very knowledgeable and they definitely did as he got my case dismissed. I would recommend James Colgan 100% and would definitely hire him again and again if needed! Thanks James!

Read less

Posted by anonymous | September 27, 2022

Highly Respected Lawyer

James did a great job as my lawyer. He made sure to keep me updated throughout the process, provided beneficial information and feedback, and assisted in getting the outcome I had hoped for. Thanks for all his help!

Posted by Keedan | September 12, 2022

K. A.

This was the absolute best decision to have Jim handle my case. He was caring, calming, and masterfully skilled. He was extremely knowledgeable about all angles of every single detail, and guided me to the best possible outcome. He was always there to answer my countless questions, and cared very much for my situation and family. I HIGHLY recommend him to ANYONE needing ANY kind of legal assistance. He is an absolute master. Do not hesitate or look any further.

Read less

Posted by Milo | January 5, 2022

Insurance claim

Jim helped recover insurance claim against someone that rear ended my farm machine . No fault of my own . Thank you

Posted by Ty | November 15, 2021

10/10

Jim was extremely professional and easy to work with. He was knowledgeable and explained things clearly. He laid out multiple different options/outcomes about my case, which gave me the chance to make my own decisions throughout the process. I would recommend Jim to anyone who needs legal assistance!

Posted by Ellen | November 12, 2021

DUI

I was referred to Mr. Colgan by a good friend, I needed a good DUI lawyer, and was told he would be one of the best. He did thorough research, and made sure we had all angles covered. At the end, instead of what could have probably been some jail time, and 2 years probation, I am wearing an ankle monitor for 10 days, and I'm on 6 months probation. I guess that is a lot better than the alternative! Thank you for your time! Much appreciated!! Ellen

Read less

Posted by anonymous | August 28, 2021

Experienced, knowledgeable, compassionate

Mr. Colgan is the type of lawyer who employs his vast experience with the criminal justice system, combined with kindness, compassion, and intelligence, to take a case that seems complex and simplify it down to what is truly important. He makes himself available to his clients, listens carefully and gathers information, formulating a plan, Implementing it in a timely fashion and keeping his clients informed. He uses ethical principles to guide his practice and this sets him apart from many. He hires expert investigators who use proper technique and etiquette in collecting evidence and testimony.

Read less

Posted by Michael | August 26, 2021

What a Blessing Jim was to me and my family

after being arrested and charged years after alleged incident occurred My hope was dismal. James worked with me through a tough mental and monetary time. His professionalism was obvious from the first time I met Him. He was more concerned with helping than the money. Worked with me and guided us though their maze, He took on Adams County with a Iron fist and got my charges all dismisssed. The mental stress relief, was worth more than anything when a innocent man is drug through law enforcements twisted world all one can feel is helpless. Innocent in till proven guilty was not the way I was treated. He righted the wrong. Jim knew how they worked and was confident all along that he would get it dismissed and His tenacity resulted in my freedom from the corrupt Adams County system. He is real and called their bluff......He did have my life in his hands and would trust Him again with it. Know doubt not your cut of the run Attorney. He is genuine ,real and no bull tolerated. Jim will have My Blessings for life Thanks Again Jim I sleep a lot better now.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | June 7, 2021

Helpful and Thorough after my car accident!

James kept me informed about my options and provided excellent advice about how to best proceed after my car accident. I was able able to get the care I needed, which was my main concern. He has the experience to provide informed advice. I would recommend him!

Posted by Chris | April 29, 2021

Chris Winkler

It was easy and a great exprriance overall. Jim was professional and did everything very well. Highly recommend for your needs!

Posted by Daniel | February 15, 2021

Got the job done

Super on top of everything when the time came and offered great advice the whole way through.

Posted by Chris | February 6, 2021

Thankful I have him

I have been fighting a case for two years and it was a bad one thank god I had James his experience with criminal cases is great he got me through with perfect advice I felt confident comfortable with his knowledge of the law and always straight forward. Thank you James for great service

Posted by Lauren | November 19, 2020

Incredible lawyer - would hire again!

I hired Jim based on a referral for an auto-related injury. Throughout the length of my case, Jim was up-front every step of the way and was thorough in explaining to me each step he was taking. While I had initially hired Jim when I was living in CO, I then moved across the country to MA and Jim continued to retain me as a client. He helped me find practitioners in the MA area and was able to work my providers in CO and MA to obtain liens for treatment. Jim also helped me immediately when my new health insurance starting seeking reimbursement that was completely unexpected, and navigated a settlement with them on my behalf. Jim was also able to settle my auto claim outside of court, resulting in an excellent settlement I can use for continued care. I would absolutely hire Jim again if needed and would refer him to anyone in need of an honest, compassionate, trustworthy attorney who works diligently on his client's behalf.

Read less

Posted by John | October 15, 2020

James Colgan to the rescue.

After dealing with a group of Attorneys in Colorado Springs and their poor representation, and them not taking a serious interest in my motor vehicle accident case, my chiropractor suggested I hire someone else and referred me to Mr Colgan. From that day forward I felt I was in good hands and as my case turned out I was in good hands. I would highly recommend Mr Colgan for whatever your legal needs are. I went from a very bad situation to a great outcome. He was able to get me the maximum possible dollar amount of the insurances policy limits. So I couldn't ask for a better outcome. Don't waste your time with just any attorney hire James Colgan. You will be glad you did. If I ever need an attorney again I will go straight to Mr. Colgan without hesitation.

Read less

Posted by Peggy | February 19, 2019

I trust James Colgan!

James gave true and accurate advice to us in a very difficult situation wherein our son was falsely accused of a crime in Colorado. He not only brings an impressive set of qualifications, but cares about the individual. I sincerely recommend James Colgan.

Posted by Angel Banales | July 24, 2018

Executive Chef Angel

James Colgan is what all lawyers should be. He is ethical, moral, able to work "the legal system" to my best advantage. Throughout my cases, I felt I had a friend and legal expert applying all of his experience, resources and unique communication abilities to the highest level for my benefit. I was very fortunate to have James as my attorney. I would highly recommend James to anyone facing criminal charges.

Read less

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner
Eddington Law Firm, LLC
2017 - Present

Litigation Attorney
Ramos Law Firm
2013 - 2017

Senior Deputy District Attorney
Arapahoe Douglas County District Attorney's Office
2011 - 2013

Chief Deputy District Attorney
Adams County District Attorney's Office
1995 - 2011

View all work experience

Education

Oklahoma City University
JD - Juris Doctor
1994

Metropolitan State University
BS - Bachelor of Science
1984

Associations

Adams/Broomfield Bar Association
Member
2017 - Present

Colorado Bar Association
Member
2017 - Present

Colorado Criminal Defense Bar Association
Member
2015 - Present

Colorado Trial Lawyers Association
Member
2013 - Present

State Bar of Texas
Member
2013 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Spanish

Honors and Awards

Client's Choice
Avvo
2021

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2021

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2020

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2019

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2018

Edward Towey Award
17th Judicial District Victim's Rights
2005

View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)

Given (5)

Endorse James

Jessica Breuer

Unknown Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Jim is a great litigator with an incredible work ethic. His background experience as a police officer and prosecutor gives him a unique perspective that most civil litigators lack. I look forward to working with him again."

Kristi Paschall

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Jim is an intelligent and passionate litigator with a tremendous work ethic. I endorse him without any hesitation."

Russell Araya

Litigation Attorney | Apr 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Jim is the real-deal. A former police officer and prosecutor, he deftly handles his criminal and civil litigation matters with expertise, comfort, and genuine respect for his clients. I am privileged to call him a colleague and to work with him on several matters."

Brian Calandra

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"As a former police officer and prosecutor Jim understands the system as well as anyone."

Wesley Eddington

Litigation Attorney | Apr 13
Relationship: Co-worker

"I have worked with Jim on several litigation cases. He is very good in the court room and cares deeply for his clients."

Richard Eddington

Personal injury Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Co-worker

"I have worked with Jim for several years and tried cases with him. He is a very talented trial attorney with over a couple hundred trials under his belt. He is as poised and polished as anyone in the courtroom. Jim works hard for all of his clients regardless of the size of the case. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good personal injury attorney. He is a joy to work with."

View more endorsements

Personal injury

Litigation

Litigation

Appeals