Former Attorney for James Craig Reaches Plea Deal on Arson, Other Charges

Robert Werking withdrew from Craig's high-profile murder trial due to his own legal troubles.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Robert Werking, the former attorney for James Craig, has reached a plea deal on arson and other charges. Werking pleaded guilty to prohibited use of a weapon and harassment, both misdemeanors, and was fined, sentenced to 40 hours of community service, and given a year of probation. Felony arson charges were dismissed as part of the plea deal.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex legal issues that can arise when an attorney faces their own criminal charges, especially in the midst of representing a high-profile client. It raises questions about the integrity of the justice system and the ability of attorneys to effectively represent their clients when they are dealing with their own legal troubles.

The details

According to documents, on June 14, 2025, Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office deputies cited Werking with prohibited use of a weapon after an incident at the home he shared with his wife. Two weeks later, a fire was reported at their home, and Werking was arrested on suspicion of arson. As a result of these legal issues, Werking withdrew from the murder trial of his client, James Craig, who was charged with the poisoning death of his wife Angela and several other charges.

  • On June 14, 2025, Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office deputies cited Werking with prohibited use of a weapon.
  • Two weeks later, on June 28, 2025, a fire was reported at Werking's home, and he was arrested on suspicion of arson.

The players

Robert Werking

A 60-year-old attorney who was the former attorney for James Craig, and who faced arson and other charges before reaching a plea deal.

James Craig

A client of Robert Werking who was charged with the poisoning death of his wife Angela, as well as several other charges, including soliciting others to tamper with evidence and commit perjury, and soliciting murder.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Robert Werking to be released on probation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of attorneys maintaining their own legal and ethical standards, even when representing high-profile clients. It also raises questions about the integrity of the justice system and the ability of attorneys to effectively represent their clients when they are dealing with their own legal troubles.