Our Attorneys
Branden Nethken
Criminal Defense Attorney | U.S. Army Veteran
Branden Nethken is a Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney who represents individuals charged with DUI, domestic violence, assault, and other offenses in El Paso County and across Southern Colorado. He also represents service members in administrative actions arising from alleged misconduct under the UCMJ and applicable military regulations, and he handles matters involving offenses on federal property.
Before becoming an attorney, Branden served in the United States Army for more than 12 years, ultimately attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. Following multiple deployments to the Middle East, he pursued a legal career dedicated to service, advocacy, and protecting the rights of those facing serious allegations.
Branden earned his Juris Doctor from the University of South Dakota School of Law. While there, he worked in veterans’ legal clinics, competed in trial advocacy, and served as President of Moot Court. He graduated summa cum laude and received Sterling Honor recognition for leadership in and beyond the legal profession.
After law school, Branden returned to active duty as an Army Judge Advocate, serving until his retirement in 2026. His assignments included serving as a federal prosecutor with the United States Attorney’s Office, where he primarily prosecuted DUI cases arising on federal property. He later prosecuted courts-martial involving felony-level misconduct, with an emphasis on domestic violence and sexual-assault offenses under the UCMJ.
Branden also served as a command legal advisor to multiple military organizations at various levels of command. His experience as both an enlisted Soldier and a Judge Advocate, including service in special operations units, gives him a practical understanding of the military justice system and the obligations commanders face when allegations arise.
That perspective also informs his civilian criminal-defense practice. Having handled DUI and serious criminal matters from the prosecution side, Branden understands how cases are built and where they can be challenged. He brings disciplined preparation, strategic analysis, and a client-focused approach to every case.
Branden lives in the Colorado Springs area with his fiancée and children. Outside the office, he enjoys making family memories and spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and golfing.
Admissions
Branden is currently authorized to practice in Colorado pending admission to the Colorado Bar. Practice Pending Admission No. 26PPA1434. He is admitted to practice in federal court and is licensed to practice law in North Dakota.
