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Areas of Practice
Business Law
& Corporate Law
Gard & Bond represents business people throughout the state of
Colorado. In addition to basic corporate formation and consultation,
Gard & Bond also acts as an Escrow Agent in the purchase and sales
of businesses.
Further, when a dispute arises, Gard
& Bond has the skill and experience necessary to resolve the issue.
We have successfully litigated hundreds of cases in both state and
federal courts. In each case, we make every effort to find a reasonable
solution to any legal problem. However, when a reasonable solution
cannot be found, we have the skills necessary to take the case to trial.
Some examples of our work:
·
We successfully tried a breach of contract case in which the defendants
misrepresented the value of a business they sold to our clients;
·
We helped an established business start a new venture, issue stock,
negotiate a complex lease and advise regarding all aspects of corporate
law;
· We litigated a dissolution of a business where the partners accused each other of wrongdoing;
· We acted as escrow agents in the sale of a small business;
· We helped a business sell a division of its business to a prospective buyer;
· We created the articles of incorporation and operating agreement for a multi-million dollar real estate investment company;
· We successfully sued a general contractor for breach of contract in a real estate development; and
· We successfully negotiated a settlement of an unjust enrichment claim in a real estate investment case.
What our clients say about us:
On
several occasions I have availed myself of the services of Gard &
Bond in cases ranging from the mundane to the extraordinary. In one
memorable instance, Jeff went out of his way to assist me in a manner
that was above and beyond the call of duty. My experiences with his
colleagues reveal them to be insightful and efficient; all have been
beyond reproach in matters ethical. In short, I owe Jeff an enduring
debt of gratitude. It pleases me to recommend him and his colleagues
without reservation. Read S. (click here
to read other client testimonials).
Criminal Law & Criminal Defense
Gard & Bond is dedicated to defending people charged with
crimes. In our experience, many cases are exaggerated and the
facts misstated. Sometimes the accusation is patently
false. We have successfully defended people from all walks of
life who stand accused of all levels of crimes, including marijuana and
other drug cases, theft, DUI, DWAI, assault, domestic violence,
harassment, etc. We have successfully tried numerous cases
throughout the state and negotiated thousands of plea agreements, most
of which helped the client avoid jail and get on with their life.
Some examples of our efforts to help people accused of crimes:
· We convinced
a district attorney’s office to drop false sexual assault cases against
two separate clients. As you would expect, such a result is
rare - particularly repeating the feat twice! Fortunately
truth prevailed and both clients are able to resume their lives without
the stigma of such heinous and false allegations;
· negotiated a deferred sentence for a client charged with felony
cultivation of marijuana;
· reduced DUI charge to careless driving;
· acquitted a client at trial of criminal mischief;
· reduced a driving under the influence of drugs case to careless
driving;
· obtained a deferred sentence to a domestic violence charge for a
client accused of assaulting her boyfriend;
· secured dismissal of a menacing with a deadly weapon case;
· acquitted a client at trial of 3rd degree assault;
· negotiated a deferred sentence in a multi-thousand dollar felony
forgery case;
· secured dismissal of charges of DUI and third degree assault/domestic
violence on the eve of jury trial.
What our clients say about us:
There are no words to adequately
express my appreciation for your nearly miraculous legal guidance and
court-related work on my DUI case. The relief I
felt when learning of the court’s decision can only be described as the
weight of the world being lifted off my shoulders. You did a tremendous
job, Jeff, and I can’t thank you enough. I will spread the word
regarding your exceptional competence and professionalism.
Thank you for all you have done in simplifying and improving my life.
Noah R.W. Saunders (click here
to read other client testimonials).
Civil Rights and Housing Discrimination
Gard & Bond has a tradition of litigating important civil
rights cases. Our trial successes have advanced the rights of disabled
persons and have helped make new law protecting the rights of disabled
persons and have established a national reputation in the area of fair
housing discrimination.
For example:
·
Roe v. Housing Authority of the City of Boulder, 909 F.Supp. 814
(D.Colo. 1995). "In Roe, Sanderson and Gard argued successfully that
the ADA, the Fair Housing Amendment Act and the Rehabilitation Act
require that a public housing provider attempt to reasonably
accommodate a disabled tenant before proceeding with eviction."
(National Disability Law Reporter).
·
Saville v. Boulder Meadows, 2 P.3d 131 (Colo. App. 2000), which applied
the Roe standard to private housing providers. "The woman in this case
was fortunate to have strong legal assistance from David Sanderson and
Jeffrey Gard." (Boulder Daily Camera). What our clients say about us:
My
wife and I first became aware of Jeff when he won a precedent setting
case in a famous fair housing case. I knew then, that if we ever needed
a lawyer, Jeff would be my choice. Since that time, we have had
occasion to hire Jeff to protect our interests in a variety of matters,
all with extremely favorable results. Over time, Jeff has become our
family attorney. Having been in court with Jeff, we can tell you that
it is very reassuring to have the best lawyer in the room sitting next
to you. My wife once called Jeff “her knight in shining armor” and I
wholeheartedly agree with her assessment. Norm and Leslie
Pinkham (click here
to read other client testimonials).
Family Law -
Divorce, Child Support, Child Custody, Visitation
For many people divorce
is one of the biggest decisions and changes in their lives.
We understand how difficult it can be and can help. Our
practice is dedicated to helping clients during and after their
divorce. We listen to your needs and help you achieve your
goals as your life enters its next phase. We endeavor make
every effort to find a reasonable solution to any legal problem.
However, when a reasonable solution cannot be found, we have honed the
skills necessary to take the case to trial.
Anna Bond is the head of the family law department and has successfully
litigated numerous cases throughout the state. In each case, Anna makes
every effort to find a reasonable solution. However, when a reasonable
solution cannot be found, Anna has the skills necessary to take the
case to trial. Based on her courtroom presence, judges praise Anna for
her professionalism and diligent preparation.
Some examples of our work:
·
We successfully resolved a protracted and contentious divorce with
marital assets exceeding 10 million dollars;
·
We litigated a case in which an abused wife was awarded sole custody of
her child;
·
We helped a couple obtain custody of the children in a case in which
the biological mother was deemed unfit to parent;
·
We helped a woman achieve a fair property settlement and she was
awarded maintenance, where the husband made every effort to leave the
woman penniless;
·
We successfully achieved joint custody for a father who was accused by
his wife of abuse and that he was an unfit parent;
·
We blocked an ex-wife’s plan to prevent our client from having any
visitation rights with his children;
·
We helped a man who was precluded from seeing his son reunite with his
child. The client now has regular parenting time and the
relationship between father and son has been restored.
What our clients say
about us:
After years of frustration and
being told to "give up" on gaining custody of my stepchildren, my
husband and I turned to Anna Bond. She not only fought for
us, but she fought for our children. She was the calm voice
leading us through the storm. She listened to us and believed
in us when other attorneys did not. There were many times we
felt like it was a losing battle, and that we had no hope.
Anna was always there to push us through and to remind us that it could
be done. Being able to know my children are in a safe
environment has completely changed all of our lives. I can't
imagine anyone I would recommend higher, and I think of what she has
done for us on a daily basis. THANK YOU! Carrie A (click here
to read other client testimonials). Frequently asked questions:
Many
clients first and only experience with the law is in a divorce.
We recognize that you have questions and encourage you to contact is to
discuss any questions you may have.
HOW LONG DOES A DIVORCE TAKE? Colorado
law does not allow you to get a divorce in less than 90 days. Most
cases take between six months and a year. It is our goal to
resolve your divorce as quickly as possible, including by agreement if
appropriate.
WHAT DO I DO UNTIL THE DIVORCE IS OVER? After
filing for divorce, a hearing can be requested to decide who lives
where, who uses what property, payment of debts, amount of child
support, child custody, etc. These "temporary" orders will be in effect
until your divorce is final.
WHAT IF MY SPOUSE TRIES TO HIDE ASSETS OR SPEND ALL OUR MONEY? All
Colorado divorce cases have automatic restraining orders that prohibit
a spouse from hiding or disposing of property, disturbing the other
spouse, or removing the children from Colorado.
HOW WILL THE JUDGE DECIDE WHERE THE CHILDREN WILL LIVE, AMOUNT OF CHILD SUPPORT, HOLIDAYS, ETC.? The
general rule of law is that Judge must decide what is in the "best
interests of the child." In general, unless there are good reasons not
to, both parents will have significant parenting time and will make
decisions about what is best for the child. Child support is based
upon the gross income of each parent. The child support includes
childcare, medical costs and other necessary expenses. Both parents
must pay their share based on each of their gross income.
WHAT IS MARITAL PROPERTY AND WHAT IS NOT? All
property is considered marital property unless it was acquired before
the marriage, by inheritance or by separate gift. However, any
increase in the value of separate property during the marriage is
considered marital property.
WHEN DOES A SPOUSE GET MAINTENANCE (also called Alimony)? To
receive maintenance/alimony, the Judge must find that you do not have
enough property or income to provide for reasonable needs; you cannot
support yourself through employment; or you are responsible for a child
whose condition prevents you from seeking employment.
HOW IS THE DIVORCE FINALIZED? Most
divorces are resolved by settlement. If we are unable to reach a
settlement, a hearing is held and Judge will decide all of the issues
in your case.
WHAT IF I CAN’T AFFORD LAWYER FEES? If there is
a large difference between you and your spouse’s income, the Judge can
order one spouse to pay all or a portion of the other spouse's legal
fees. This is decided on a case-by-case basis.
Civil
Law & Personal Injury
Gard & Bond has a reputation for being hard-nosed litigators
and our tenacity earns us the respect of attorneys, judges and
clients. Based on our reputation for meticulous preparation
and well-honed trial skills, we are hired by fellow attorneys to help
where settlement has failed and the case must be taken before a jury.
Some of notable examples of our work include:
· We
successfully concluded an 8 day jury trial for a woman who suffered
traumatic brain injuries in two successive automobile collisions;
· We obtained a $550,000 for a client who endured spinal and neck
injuries in a serious fall;
· We negotiated a $350,000 settlement for a client who suffered a brain
injury caused by carbon monoxide exposure;
· We obtained the insurance policy limits for a client hit by a drunk
driver while commuting home on his motorcycle;
· We negotiated a $225,000 settlement for a victim of discrimination
· We negotiated an $88,000 settlement for a client who sustained arm
injuries when a negligent contractor working on the T-Rex project drove
into a light pole, causing it to crash through the client’s windshield;
· We settled a case for $85,000 on behalf of a client who sustained
neck and back injuries in a rear-end automobile collision.
What our clients say about us:
In a bizarre accident I was rear
ended repeatedly (at high speed) by a schizophrenic woman. The back
injuries caused me to be out of work for several months and saddled me
with a lifetime of intermittent lower back pain. I wanted to work with
a law firm who was ethical, realistic and above all, responsive to
me. Fortunately, a friend of a friend suggested I call Jeff
Gard. Wow! What a difference! Jeff and Anna listened to me, came back
with a reasonable approach and actually worked to get me about 3 times
the amount I would have expected. Most of all, my experience was that
they provided an outstanding level of service and integrity.
I would recommend this firm to anyone and feel confident that they
would receive the same consideration I did. Donna
Borden (click here
to read other client testimonials).
Government
Security Clearance
Gard & Bond is an experienced law helping people who have been
denied a security clearance. We successfully litigated a
Department of Defense denial of security clearance based on a prior
criminal conviction. Using our well-honed trial skills, we
overcame the initial denial of security clearance, which allowed our
client to obtain clearance and advance his career.
What our clients say about us:
On
several occasions I have availed myself of the services of Gard &
Bond in cases ranging from the mundane to the extraordinary. In one
memorable instance, Jeff went out of his way to assist me in a manner
that was above and beyond the call of duty. My experiences with his
colleagues reveal them to be insightful and efficient; all have been
beyond reproach in matters ethical. In short, I owe Jeff an enduring
debt of gratitude. It pleases me to recommend him and his colleagues
without reservation. Read S. (click here
to read other client testimonials). Information regarding security clearances:
The
Defense Security Service (DSS) is the provider of personnel and
industrial security services, i.e., security clearances for the
Department of Defense.
Individuals cannot apply for a
personnel security clearance application. The company they work for
determine whether an employee will require access to classified
information in performance of his job. Once the company makes
this determination, the employee may be processed for a security
clearance at the company’s request.
The security clearance
process examines a substantial period of a person's life to make a
determination whether the person is an acceptable security risk. To
achieve security clearance the individual must meet several security
guidelines. The evaluation process weighs a number of factors known as
the “whole-person concept.” DSS gathers and evaluates all available,
reliable information about the person, past and present, favorable and
unfavorable, in reaching a security clearance determination. When an
individual’s history shows evidence of unreliability or
untrustworthiness, a security clearance may be denied.
An
individual whose security clearance has been denied or revoked has the
opportunity to appeal the decision. The individual may request a
hearing before an administrative judge in order to provide additional
information and has the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses who
testify against granting a security clearance. The administrative judge
will render a decision and, if the decision is to deny or revoke the
security clearance, the individual can appeal the decision to the
Appeal Board. The Appeal Board will review the case file and render a
final decision.
For further information contact:
The Department of Defense Security Services Center, 1-888-282-7682, or via the internet at:
https://www.dss.mil/GW/ShowBinary/DSS/psco/ps_faqs.html#1.
Sealing
Criminal Records - Record Seal Over
the last several years and, with the proliferation of information over
the Internet, numerous companies engage in the business of accumulating
and selling personal information, including arrest and criminal
records. It is critical that you take every step to ensure that
you seal your criminal record is not made available to the public.
Gard & Bond is an experienced law firm providing
effective legal representation throughout the state of Colorado. We
enjoy a reputation for providing excellent legal work and are fortunate
to claim that all of our work comes by "word of mouth.” We have
successfully sealed the criminal records in numerous cases and are
confident that we can help you or someone you care about. Not all cases can be sealed.
You may only seal arrest or criminal records if you meet one of the following requirements:
·
All charges were dismissed or you were acquitted of all charges.
This includes any cases where you successfully completed a deferred
sentence or deferred prosecution;
· There is only an arrest record and no charges were filed;
·
You had a case that was dismissed due to a plea agreement in another
case and more than 10 years have passed since the case was concluded
and you have had no additional criminal charges.
You may not petition to seal arrest or criminal records if:
· You have been convicted of a sexual offense as defined by C.R.S. §16-22-102(9); or
· You still owe restitution, fines, court costs, late fees, or other fees ordered by the Court;
·
The offense pertains to a class 1 or class 2 misdemeanor traffic
offense, or to a class A or class B traffic infraction, or a conviction
for a violation of DUI or DWAI.
Finally, in certain
circumstances, you may petition the Court to seal a criminal conviction
record if you meet the two requirements listed below:
· Ten or more years have passed from the final disposition of all criminal proceedings, including any period of probation;
---AND---
·
You have not been charged or convicted for a criminal offense in the
ten or more years since the date of the final disposition of all
criminal proceedings, including any period of probation.
Only people convicted of the following offenses are eligible to petition to seal the conviction:
· Any petty offense;
· Any misdemeanor in violation of article 18 of title 18;
·
Any class 5 or class 6 felony in violation of article 18 of title 18
EXCEPT if the conviction was for the sale, manufacturing or dispensing
of a controlled substance as defined at §18-18-102(5), C.R.S. or
attempt of those offenses or for possession with intent to manufacture,
dispense or sell a controlled substance.
In cases
involving a criminal conviction, you must obtain the permission of the
prosecuting district attorney before you can petition to seal a
conviction record.
For additional information, please review C.R.S. §24-72-308.
The procedure for sealing the record:
A
petition requesting that the record be sealed must be filed in the
District Court, in the county where the records are located. All of the
agencies who maintain the record must be provided with notice and an
opportunity to object to the petition to seal.
If the petition
to seal is granted by the Judge you would not be obligated to disclose
any information contained in the sealed records to any employer,
educational institution, state or local government agency, officials,
and employees in any application or interview. Further, if an
interviewer or application inquires about any criminal records that may
have been sealed you may legally claim that no such action ever
occurred and that no such record exists.
Moreover, upon any
inquiry, all criminal justice agencies are required to state that no
such records exist. With certain limited exceptions, once the
record is sealed, the documents legally could be examined only if you
or the prosecuting attorney petitions the Judge and the Judge grants
the examination. However, please be advised that the arresting
agency is permitted to share information contained in a sealed record
when an inquiry is made by another criminal justice agency.
Finally,
if you are not eligible to seal your arrest and criminal record, we
have developed a method to help you explain your legal situation.
We find that by being honest about your criminal history, combined with
emphasizing all that you did to complete your sentence and any “life
lessons” you learned in the process, can help you obtain and advance in
your employment, education or other endeavors. Honesty is the
best policy and you can help a prospective employer understand your
side of the story. This approach has helped many people convince
the employer to take a chance.
What our clients say about us:
Mr.
Jeff Gard is a humble attorney that I had the privilege to represent
me. This man was one of many I interviewed to take my case and he was
the only one truly looking for my best interests. I will and have
recommended G&A for friends and people I love, in their time of
need. Anyone who is in that situation should feel confident that
this team will deliver success and peace of mind. Thank you Jeff for
being there in my life when I needed you. Ash N. (click here
to read other client testimonials).
Carbon Monoxide
Gard & Bond is an experienced law firm providing effective legal
representation. We enjoy a reputation for providing excellent legal
work and are fortunate to claim that all of our work comes by "word of
mouth.” We have successfully litigated hundreds of cases in both
state and federal courts. In each case, we make every effort to find a
reasonable solution to any legal problem. However, when a reasonable
solution cannot be found, we have the skills necessary to take the case
to trial.
Jeffrey
S. Gard is a nationally recognized lawyer and lecturer on the subject
of carbon monoxide induced brain injury. In recognition for his
efforts to help victims of carbon monoxide poisoning, Jeff joined
forces with prominent carbon monoxide researcher, professor and author
Dr. David Penney, and respected neuropsychologist, Dr. Dennis
Helffenstein, to teach lawyers and medical professionals how to
successfully litigate carbon monoxide induced brain injury cases.
Some of examples of our work:
·
We were contacted by a Texas woman who stayed in a hotel while on
business. During the night her carbon monoxide detector went off
and she was taken to the emergency room. Unfortunately, the
damage was done and the woman suffered brain damage. Once she
came to Gard & Bond, we sent her to a carbon monoxide brain injury
specialist and eventually filed a lawsuit against the hotel. On
the eve of trial, the hotel settled the case for a substantial sum of
money, which provided the means for the client to get back on her feet;
·
In another case, our client passed out from carbon monoxide exposure in
a rented apartment. A faulty hot water heater was the
culprit. Again, the client suffered a brain injury and we were
forced to take the matter to trial. The client now dedicates
herself to helping other victims of carbon monoxide share their
experiences and get the tools necessary to help them through it.
What our clients say about us:
Mr.
Jeff Gard is a humble attorney that I had the privilege to represent
me. This man was one of many I interviewed to take my case and he was
the only one truly looking for my best interests. I will and have
recommended G&A for friends and people I love, in their time of
need. Anyone who is in that situation should feel confident that
this team will deliver success and peace of mind. Thank you Jeff for
being there in my life when I needed you. Ash N. (click here
to read other client testimonials). We
enjoy a nationwide reputation for representing victims of carbon
monoxide and have taught both lawyers and doctors how to successfully
handle such cases.
Please Note
All
of the cases, set forth above are for purposes of example, and are not
and should not be construed as a guarantee or predictor of future
result.
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