Have you been charged with a misdemeanor in Colorado? It’s important to take these charges seriously even though they are not as severe as felony charges. Due to the fact that misdemeanors can still come with serious consequences, they should not be confused with petty offenses. You need to know the stakes of being charged with a misdemeanor in Colorado.
Is a Misdemeanor in Colorado Serious?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Colorado is punishable by up to 364 days in jail, or a fine of up to $1,000. Class 2 misdemeanors in Colorado are punishable by up to 120 days in jail, or up to a fine of $750. Penalties are often determined based on the details of the alleged crime. § 18-1.3-501.
What are the Collateral Consequences of Misdemeanor Crimes?
It’s important to know that some misdemeanors in Colorado actually count as deportable offenses for non-legal residents. This can increase the urgency for hiring a law firm. Additionally, misdemeanors can impact the right to own a firearm or impact driving privileges. These are collateral consequences our team can advise you on or consult with an expert.
What Should I Do If I've Been Charged With a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
Don’t waste a minute before getting a lawyer to work on your case! At Koziel & Lehr Law LLC, we strive to help our clients understand their rights when facing misdemeanor charges. It’s important for defendants to know that they should never appear without legal representation. Our team is here to help you defend your rights regardless of which direction your case ultimately goes in after you learn about all of your options for making a plea.
People charged with misdemeanors in Colorado have two options for trial. The first is a jury trial with six jurors. The second option is something called a bench trial. If convicted at trial, a judge can grant probation in lieu of jail.
While some misdemeanor cases are resolved through negotiation instead of going to trial, there is also the third option of having your case dismissed. Evidence related to the circumstances of the alleged crime, improper handling of the case by law enforcement or procedural failings on the part of the prosecution can all contribute to a case being dismissed.
How Do I Find a Denver Lawyer If I've Been Charged With a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
Serving Denver and the Denver Metro area and Colorado Springs, Koziel & Lehr Law LLC was founded by two former public defenders to help Colorado residents defend their rights against any level of charges. We represent clients facing Class 1 and Class 2 misdemeanors. Let us help you determine your next step if you’re facing charges related to:
- Traffic offenses
- Alcohol-related traffic offenses (DUI and DWAI)
- Careless driving causing death or injury
- Domestic violence
- Theft
- Forgery
- Assault in the third degree
- Indecent exposure
- Obstructing a police officer
- Resisting arrests
- Public fighting
- Prostitution
- Soliciting for prostitution
- Criminal mischief
- Underage drinking
- Menacing
In addition to offering representation for misdemeanors, our law office can also provide counsel and representation if you’ve been charged with a felony, crime against a person, crime against property or petty offense in Colorado. Koziel & Lehr Law LLC approaches every case from a collaborative viewpoint focused on bringing together the right experts, investigators and witnesses to help you make a case against your charges. We’re committed to providing personalized attention that helps you to navigate your way through the complex challenges of the judicial system. While we strive to help our clients avoid trial through negotiations and dismissal of charges, we are also able to put our experience as skilled trial lawyers to work for you. Make sure you have lawyers working on your side to protect your rights! Contact Koziel & Lehr Law LLC at (720) 314-8750 for a consultation with a Denver misdemeanor lawyer today!