“Do I have to register as a political committee or issue committee?” “What counts as an ‘electioneering communication?’” “I got a campaign finance complaint, but I didn’t even know I had to file anything!” 

Whether you are a candidate, an organization, or even just an individual looking for a voice on an issue, there are many complicated and confusing laws and regulations that apply to political activity.  In Colorado where fines can accrue to unbelievable levels very quickly, the rules are quite complicated, and we strongly advise citizens interested in public policy to consult an attorney before you get started.  At the Law Office of Alexander Hornaday, LLC we have considerable experience navigating these rules so that our clients can focus on their actual political or policy goals instead of compliance. Sometimes, however, citizens aren’t aware of the pitfalls until it’s too late, and in that case we can help too.

We can help you do the following:

• File the necessary paperwork with the Colorado Secretary of State, the Federal Elections Commission, the IRS, or your municipal authorities so you can get started on your project;
• Comply with all applicable campaign finance laws and regulations that apply to your activities;
• Administer your political committee, small donor committee, issue committee, candidate committee, or independent expenditure committee;
• Obtain advisory opinions from the Colorado Secretary of State and the Federal Elections Commission on issues relating to campaign finance;
• Defend against complaints, either in administrative hearings or the courts, that you have fallen subject one of the many hidden pitfalls in elections law; and
• Ensure your opponents play by the same rules you must observe. 

Remember: the best and least expensive time to consult an attorney is before problems arise!