Learn more
about our team.
Our lawyers work hard on behalf of those who risk their lives every day in the line of duty. Our attorneys specialize in representing and defending first responders.
1000+
Successful Cases
20+
Years' Combined Experience
Our Mission
Front Line Law attorneys specialize in the defense and representation of first responders throughout the State.
We fight uphill battles in support
of the first responders, who depend
on us during their darkest of days.
We understand that hard work today guarantees our success tomorrow, and we always strive to be a strong and confident voice for our clients. Every day we go to work, looking to prove to new and existing clients why we are worthy of their blind faith and trust. We do not take this responsibility lightly, and we know that to do this job - and to do it well - we must first learn anything and everything there is to know about first responders, their current plight, and their day-to-day struggles.

We also recognize when our clients are not handling the stress of the legal process well. We are quick to identify when clients need additional time and support.
We train ourselves to identify the underlying causes of our clients’ high anxiety, and we do our best to alleviate their stress and anxiety in whatever way possible.
We are proudly dedicated to the pursuit of justice for all first responders.
Through our words, and in our actions, we do whatever we can to inspire the continued confidence of our devoted client base. We do our best to change the lives of those we are honored to represent.
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Our Team

Carrie L. Slinkard - Founder & Managing Partner

Carrie L. Slinkard

Founder and Managing Partner
Carrie has spent more than a decade working closely with law enforcement officials, peace officers, and first responders throughout the State of Colorado.

She has substantial practical experience defending police officers and first responders in a wide variety of cases, including criminal matters, complex administrative cases, federal civil rights actions, and employment proceedings.

She has served as lead counsel in numerous high-profile felony and misdemeanor cases filed against individual police officers throughout the state, and she has written and argued hundreds of substantive and procedural motions before municipal, state, and federal court judges.

Carrie was named Prosecutor of the Year in 2012 and has taken more than 75 cases to trial before a jury.

She has a winning trial record and has background experience teaching courtroom skills and training academy cadets and first responders on the presentation of testimony in courtrooms throughout the state.

In 2013, Carrie left her job as a felony prosecutor for Adams County in the Seventeenth Judicial District to work in private practice. Now, more than 10 years have passed since
Carrie first became an attorney, and throughout the course of her career, Carrie has defended hundreds of peace officers, jail deputies, first responders, patrol cops, and commanding officers in complex internal affairs investigations, officer-involved shootings, critical incident investigations, and numerous grand jury proceedings.

Carrie knows how to protect confidential employment records from improper and unlawful disclosure in both the civil and criminal contexts, and she is familiar with all of the hot-button legislative issues affecting first responders on both the state and federal levels. Carrie has worked for, against, and alongside other attorneys who specialize in public employer liability, and to date, Carrie has more than 10 years of relevant litigation experience, during which time she has always worked closely with police officers, jail deputies, command staff, and prosecutors alike.

Carrie strongly believes that first responders and all law enforcement officers deserve the best defense available regardless of the case, and she is dedicated to that cause.

Carrie left her position as a Partner at Bruno, Colin & Lowe, PC, in 2019 to form the law offices of Front Line Law, LLC, and she is compassionate, sincere, and proudly dedicated to the successful defense of all first responders she has the honor to represent. In 2022, Carrie was declared a Lawyer of Distinction. Members of Lawyers of Distinction have been vetted and recognized by their peers as being among the best of the best in their respective fields. Members are subject to a final review for ethical violations within the past ten years before confirmation of membership and cannot pay to be nominated. Lawyers of Distinction’s roster includes many of the most powerful and respected attorneys in the United States.
Carrie L. Slinkard - Founder & Managing Partner

Carrie L. Slinkard

Founder & Managing Partner
Celina C. Phillips - Director of Operations

Celina C. Phillips

Director of Operations & Firm Conflicts Coordinator
Celina’s dedication to first responders and others in this line of duty is deeply rooted in her extensive military family background. Growing up with close ties to the military, law enforcement, and first responders has only strengthened her resolve to give back to those who risk their lives for our safety every day. She is profoundly committed to the mental and emotional well-being of these brave individuals, having witnessed firsthand the challenges they endure.

As the Director of Operations & Firm Conflicts Coordinator for Front Line Law, Celina channels her passion for supporting these heroes into her daily work. She takes immense pride in delivering the highest quality of support to those serving Colorado. Celina diligently ensures that every member of the Firm upholds the same values and ethos she holds dear.

With over 25 years of experience in managing operations, ensuring legal compliance, collaborating with leadership, and fostering long-lasting relationships within agencies and businesses, Celina is adept in state regulations, federal compliance, medical records management, and all aspects of confidential client files. Her previous business and professional endeavors have not only facilitated her personal growth but also enriched her business acumen.

Celina has completed courses in Harvard AT&T Business Management, operations management, telecommunications, and medical administration and transcription. These educational experiences have equipped her with a diverse skill set that enhances her professional performance.

Celina takes pride in striving for excellence in every aspect of her life. Her years as a business owner have endowed her with the ability to deliver high-quality work efficiently, ensuring complete client satisfaction. She aims to cultivate an environment of accountability and works tirelessly to maintain operational excellence. Her meticulous attention to detail enables her to handle even the most delicate situations with the utmost care. Outside of her professional commitments at Front Line Law, Celina enjoys spending time with her large family, friends, and beloved pets. She cherishes every moment with her loved ones and often plans events and excursions within the beautiful state of Colorado and beyond.
Celina C. Phillips - Director of Operations

Celina C. Phillips

Director of Operations
Taylor K. Frandsen - Associate Attorney

Taylor K. Frandsen

Associate Attorney
Taylor is a Colorado native who completed her undergraduate studies at Colorado State University, majoring in political science and philosophy and minoring in legal studies. She then moved to San Diego, where she attended California Western School of Law on scholarship. After graduating from law school, Taylor moved back to Colorado, dedicating her career to helping first responders.

Taylor has worked on hundreds of internal affairs investigations, assisting law enforcement officers through all stages of the process and ensuring the best possible outcomes for them. She understands the stress officers experience when they receive an internal affairs notification and is passionate about advocating on their behalf and protecting their rights. She has taken internal affairs investigations all the way to hearing boards, arguing against agencies that have conducted poor investigations, disproportionately disciplined officers, and terminated officers without justification.

Taylor has responded to many officer-involved shootings, day and night, on weekdays and weekends, to assist the officers through the process and ensure they are protected not only criminally but also civilly and administratively.

Taylor has a very high record of trials resulting in full acquittals for many first responders. She excels at crafting winning legal defenses in both criminal and administrative cases.

She is extremely dedicated to ensuring first responders receive the best possible legal services and is deeply thankful for their service and for protecting our communities. In her free time, Taylor enjoys traveling to new places, reading a good book, and spending time with her family and her puppies.
Taylor K. Frandsen - Associate Attorney

Taylor K. Frandsen

Associate Attorney
Alejandro J. Fernandez - Associate Attorney

Alejandro J. Fernandez

Associate Attorney
Alejandro is a Florida native who attended Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology. He obtained his Juris Doctor from Barry University School of Law in Orlando, Florida, excelling academically and demonstrating a strong commitment to legal advocacy and criminal law.

Alejandro has prior experience in private practice, working on cases ranging from criminal defense to medical malpractice and commercial litigation. He developed a passion for trial practice, which eventually led him to the Office of the Public Defender, where he gained experience working on numerous felony and high-profile cases.

Inspired by the sacrifices of his family members who are first responders, Alejandro pursued a career in defending these heroes, recognizing the profound impact that legal advocacy can have on their lives. He understands that justice and fairness are not just abstract concepts but tangible ideals worth fighting for.

Since joining Front Line Law, Alejandro has established a proven track record of successful outcomes in various criminal and internal affairs cases, ranging from officer-involved shootings to minor traffic violations. He brings the same level of passion and dedication to every case, regardless of its nature.

In his free time, Alejandro enjoys snowboarding, hiking with his two dogs, and learning about history.
Alejandro J. Fernandez - Associate Attorney

Alejandro J. Fernandez

Associate Attorney
Kodie N. Austin - Associate Attorney

Kodie N. Clinton

Associate Attorney
Kodie was born and raised in Southern California but recently relocated to Colorado with her husband and dogs. Although she initially studied political science at the University of Connecticut, Kodie completed her undergraduate degree in history at California State University, Long Beach. She then attended Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, graduating with a concentration in Criminal Law. Shortly thereafter, Kodie passed the California Bar Exam. During her time in law school, Kodie worked for the school's Project for the Innocent Clinic, interned at the United States Attorney’s Office, and served as a Certified Law Clerk for both the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. She also served on the executive board of Loyola’s Criminal Law Society for all three years. After passing the California Bar Exam, Kodie was sworn in as a Deputy District Attorney for Riverside County. In this role as a prosecutor, she handled both misdemeanor and felony cases, spending most days advocating in the courtroom.

Kodie not only gained firsthand experience of the work first responders do for our communities while working alongside them as a prosecutor, but she also understands their contributions on a personal level. Kodie’s father has been a deputy for over 20 years, her brother is a patrol officer, and her husband is a former deputy. This personal connection to first responders is what inspired Kodie to join the Front Line Law team. She initially began her work with Front Line Law as a law clerk while studying for the Colorado State Bar Exam. Upon passing the exam, she immediately began representing clients throughout Colorado.

Throughout her tenure with the firm, Kodie has consistently excelled by helping numerous clients reduce the disciplinary consequences of their internal affairs investigations, guiding others through critical incident investigations, and securing a “Not Guilty” verdict on all charges in a multi-count criminal trial. She continues to demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication in her ongoing work.

Whether representing clients facing criminal charges or disciplinary consequences from internal affairs investigations, Kodie is dedicated to fighting for those who risk their lives for their communities every day.

When she is not working, Kodie enjoys camping, cooking, and exploring Colorado with her husband and two dogs.
Kodie N. Austin - Associate Attorney

Kodie N. Clinton

Associate Attorney
Nicolas G. DiProspero - Paralegal

Nicolas G. DiProspero

Senior Paralegal
Nick, a native of New Jersey, holds a degree in Justice Studies with a concentration in Paralegal Studies from Montclair State University. During his academic career, he was a member of the Lambda Epsilon Chi Paralegal Honor Society and was consistently recognized on the Dean’s List.

Nick began his legal career in 2015 as an intern at a local law firm, quickly distinguishing himself and securing a full-time position shortly thereafter.

With nearly a decade of extensive legal experience, Nick has worked on a wide range of cases in both criminal and civil defense. His case portfolio includes everything from minor parking violations to complex cases involving international carjacking rings and murder. He has collaborated closely with various law enforcement agencies, including local departments, the FBI, U.S. Customs, and Border Protection.

Since 2019, Nick has been with Front Line Law in Colorado, where he has provided invaluable assistance to hundreds of Colorado first responders on internal affairs cases, critical incidents, criminal defense matters, and state and federal civil rights lawsuits. As a vital member of the Front Line Law team, Nick is dedicated to delivering exceptional service to the firm’s clients, bringing a profound commitment to justice and advocacy.

In his spare time, Nick enjoys attending live music events, hiking, rock climbing, and spending quality time with friends.
Nicolas G. DiProspero - Paralegal

Nicolas G. DiProspero

Senior Paralegal
Arianna P. Phillips - Associate Attorney

Arianna P. Phillips

Associate Attorney
Arianna's journey with Front Line Law commenced as a volunteer and swiftly ascended into her present role as a distinguished Paralegal. Her profound commitment and fervent dedication to our mission is deeply rooted in her familial connections to first responders, whom she admires for their unwavering valor and sacrifice.

Arianna exhibits an unwavering dedication to excellence and diligently ensures that each client is met with the utmost understanding and compassion. Recognizing the inherent stress accompanying our clients' when they come to our firm, she takes personal pride in alleviating their burdens, imbuing every encounter with a sense of solace and reassurance.

Arianna's academic achievements are as notable as her professional endeavors. As the Salutatorian of her graduating class and the esteemed president of the National Honors Society, she epitomizes scholarly distinction. With a stellar academic record, underscored by a remarkable 4.2 GPA, she is poised to embark on the next phase of her journey by attending law school, aspiring to serve as a Front Line Law Associate Attorney.

A graduate of the prestigious University of Colorado at Boulder, Arianna's intellectual prowess is evident through her Major in English, with a discerning focus on literature, complemented by a Minor in Art Practices.

Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, Arianna finds fulfillment in expressing her creativity through various artistic mediums. From captivating oil and acrylic paintings to intricate tattoo designs and innovative digital art, her creative versatility knows no bounds. In her commitment to enriching the lives of others, she also derives satisfaction from crafting personalized and bespoke commissioned art pieces, each infused with her unparalleled passion and dedication.
Arianna P. Phillips - Associate Attorney

Arianna P. Phillips

Paralegal
Kathryn J. Delmonico - Paralegal

Kathryn J. Delmonico

Paralegal
Kathryn, a native of Colorado, embarked on her academic journey at Colorado State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. Subsequently, she pursued her legal education at Creighton University School of Law, graduating with distinction with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree alongside a Master of Science in Government Organization and Leadership, specializing in International Law.

During the culmination of her legal studies, Kathryn undertook an enriching internship with the Military Commission Defense Organization in Washington, D.C., honing her proficiency in administrative procedures within the realm of the Military Code of Justice.

Following her tenure in Omaha, Nebraska, Kathryn's fervent desire to return to her roots in Colorful Colorado led her to join Front Line Law as a Paralegal. Leveraging her comprehensive legal background and specialized knowledge of the Military Code of Justice, she adeptly facilitates clients and attorneys alike through multifaceted administrative proceedings, ranging from engagements with entities like the State Personnel Board to intricate criminal trials and internal affairs matters.

Since integrating into the Front Line Law team, Kathryn has distinguished herself through her unwavering commitment to client-centric advocacy, characterized by a profound sense of empathy and compassion. Drawing upon her extensive experience and education, she ensures that clients feel empowered and heard as they navigate the complexities of their legal challenges.
Kathryn J. Delmonico - Paralegal

Kathryn J. Delmonico

Paralegal
Our clients
are men and women who have dedicated their lives to public safety.
are men and women who
have dedicated their lives
to public safety.
They consist of police officers, firefighters, corrections officers, Deputy Sheriffs, active-duty military personnel, emergency medical providers, paramedics, nurses, and the like. We provide legal defense services that have been designed to meet the needs of men and women who put their lives on the line every day.
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What Our Clients Say:
I had the privilege of being represented by Attorney Kodie Clinton and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to both her and your firm. Attorney Clinton provided unwavering support, care, and expertise in the aftermath of the officer-involved shooting I was involved in. She went above and beyond to keep me informed at every critical stage of the investigation, ensuring I was well-prepared for my interview and the review of my body-worn camera footage. Her professionalism, dedication, and genuine passion for her work were clear throughout the entire process. I couldn't have asked for better guidance, and I am extremely grateful for her assistance. Attorney Clinton is an exceptional asset to your team, and I wanted to express my sincere thanks.
C.S. 09/23/2024
Front Line Law was there during a legal need I was experiencing. Front Line’s staff and attorneys were nothing short of kind, personable, and professional. The next time I need an attorney I will definitely be calling Front Line Law and I would recommend you do also.
M.H. 08/22/2024
The court tried to hold me for contempt of court. Front Line Law helped me every step of the way. They made sure I understood every aspect of the case and they showed that I was not properly served the Subpoena in the first place.
J. 07/25/24
Thank You, Front Line Law. A law firm that goes above and beyond the client's expectations. Will work tirelessly on your case. HONEST, PROFESSIONAL, SMART and Trustworthy. I could not have asked for more.
R.M. 07/25/24
“I was very happy with the work Front Line Law provided and outcome of my case. Alejandro did a great job! He approached everything professionally, thoughtfully and with tact. I also know there was a lot of work done behind the scenes, so I appreciate everyone’s hard work with that as well. Thank you again to everyone at Front Line Law and continued success!”
B.B. 03/20/23
“Front Line Law was there for me when no one else was. Carrie and crew were extremely supportive and walked me through everything until I was satisfied. They answered their phone at all hours of the day and night, just to put me at ease. There isn't a Law firm out there that will out work this firm. I would bet my life on it.”
G.T. 02/09/23
“My overall experience has been awesome while working with Taylor. She's been very helpful with explaining the process of everything, and also has been realistic when talking to me about different options in regard to my case and what possible outcomes there were. I have nothing negative to say about my experience, and know that if I need any legal representation in the future I will be reaching back out to this firm.”
R.N. 10/01/22
“When I first contacted your office, I didn’t think anyone could help me. You’ve done so much for me! You are truly wonderful at what you do. You brought me so much peace when I couldn’t find it anywhere else. Thank you for the positivity.”
R.P. 08/02/22
“From the bottom of my heart, I wanted to give a huge thanks for taking my case in a time of high stress. You are awesome and hope I never have to go through that situation again, but if I do you will be my first call!”
K.T. 05/11/22
“I sought Carrie out specifically because I like the way she treated me in the past. She was thorough and made sure we squashed any issues ahead of time, and she made sure that my administration was doing the things they should be doing. I want others to know that my issue was very small, nothing criminal or critical, but that is why I wanted to go with Carrie. I knew that she would still treat me with the same level of respect as if I would have been in a shoot vs this small thing. It was nice that even though this wasn't some major case or something super exciting or super critical that she still showed me the same attention. You will get the same level of service whether it's critical or not critical. Not many people like Carrie in the world anymore so I'm happy to repay everything she's done for me if I ever can.”
J.M. 02/10/22
“I have nothing but praise Front Line Law and your team. I was treated respectfully and was very happy with the representation Front Line Law provided. The attorney was on top of things and was invaluable during my internal affairs interview. The attorney was supportive of my position but gave me good advice without coddling me. I really appreciate them treating me respectfully and making time for my stuff on short notice. I am very happy with my experience as a whole with your office. I will continue to recommend you all to my coworkers and I thank you for what you do.”
R.P. 12/23/21
“I am so grateful for Front Line. They handled my case in a very professional manner. The lawyers here are great listeners and really took the time to understand my side. I appreciate that they know what Law Enforcement Officers go through instead of just going through law school and claiming to know everything. No officer expects to need legal help, but it’s nice to know it’ll be okay. Front Line did a great job with my first case. When my second case came around, I had no doubt about who I should call.”
A.B. 11/15/21
“Could not say enough good things about this law firm. Hiring a stranger to represent your interest and well-being is no easy choice. You want to know your hard earned money is being appropriately used in your defense. Carrie has represented me multiple times and has fought tooth and nail to get me my desired outcome. This law firm has a soft spot for law enforcement and related fields and ACTUALLY cares about you as an individual and not as a paycheck. I was kept up to date on everything and any questions I had were answered immediately. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
C.T. 03/2021
“I was very happy with the work Front Line Law provided and outcome of my case. Alejandro did a great job! He approached everything professionally, thoughtfully and with tact. I also know there was a lot of work done behind the scenes, so I appreciate everyone’s hard work with that as well. Thank you again to everyone at Front Line Law and continued success!”
B.B. 03/20/23
“Front Line Law was there for me when no one else was. Carrie and crew were extremely supportive and walked me through everything until I was satisfied. They answered their phone at all hours of the day and night, just to put me at ease. There isn't a Law firm out there that will out work this firm. I would bet my life on it.”
G.T. 02/09/23
“My overall experience has been awesome while working with Taylor. She's been very helpful with explaining the process of everything, and also has been realistic when talking to me about different options in regard to my case and what possible outcomes there were. I have nothing negative to say about my experience, and know that if I need any legal representation in the future I will be reaching back out to this firm.”
R.N. 10/01/22
“When I first contacted your office, I didn’t think anyone could help me. You’ve done so much for me! You are truly wonderful at what you do. You brought me so much peace when I couldn’t find it anywhere else. Thank you for the positivity.”
R.P. 08/02/22
“From the bottom of my heart, I wanted to give a huge thanks for taking my case in a time of high stress. You are awesome and hope I never have to go through that situation again, but if I do you will be my first call!”
K.T. 05/11/22
“I sought Carrie out specifically because I like the way she treated me in the past. She was thorough and made sure we squashed any issues ahead of time, and she made sure that my administration was doing the things they should be doing. I want others to know that my issue was very small, nothing criminal or critical, but that is why I wanted to go with Carrie. I knew that she would still treat me with the same level of respect as if I would have been in a shoot vs this small thing. It was nice that even though this wasn't some major case or something super exciting or super critical that she still showed me the same attention. You will get the same level of service whether it's critical or not critical. Not many people like Carrie in the world anymore so I'm happy to repay everything she's done for me if I ever can.”
J.M. 02/10/22
“I have nothing but praise Front Line Law and your team. I was treated respectfully and was very happy with the representation Front Line Law provided. The attorney was on top of things and was invaluable during my internal affairs interview. The attorney was supportive of my position but gave me good advice without coddling me. I really appreciate them treating me respectfully and making time for my stuff on short notice. I am very happy with my experience as a whole with your office. I will continue to recommend you all to my coworkers and I thank you for what you do.”
R.P. 12/23/21
“I am so grateful for Front Line. They handled my case in a very professional manner. The lawyers here are great listeners and really took the time to understand my side. I appreciate that they know what Law Enforcement Officers go through instead of just going through law school and claiming to know everything. No officer expects to need legal help, but it’s nice to know it’ll be okay. Front Line did a great job with my first case. When my second case came around, I had no doubt about who I should call.”
A.B. 11/15/21
“Could not say enough good things about this law firm. Hiring a stranger to represent your interest and well-being is no easy choice. You want to know your hard earned money is being appropriately used in your defense. Carrie has represented me multiple times and has fought tooth and nail to get me my desired outcome. This law firm has a soft spot for law enforcement and related fields and ACTUALLY cares about you as an individual and not as a paycheck. I was kept up to date on everything and any questions I had were answered immediately. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
C.T. 03/2021