Denver Felony Defense Lawyer

Defending Against Felony Charges in Jefferson, Douglas, Arapahoe, & Adams Counties

Felonies are the most serious category of crime, superseding both misdemeanors and minor infractions in terms of the severity of the offense and the potential penalties for conviction. When you are charged with a felony in Denver, it could change the course of your life. In addition to any penalties you may face, a felony charge remains on your permanent record for life and it could impact your ability to secure gainful employment, among other disadvantages.

It’s crucial to secure the right legal representation when you’re facing a felony charge, and the professionals at Curtis Law Firm have the capability you need to mount a sound legal defense. There are a few things you should know about felony charges going into the process.

Contact Curtis Law Firm today to get started with our Denver felony crime attorney.

What Is a Felony in Colorado?

The defining characteristic of a felony offense is that it pertains to any criminal act that is punishable by more than one year in prison or by death. Minor infractions often incur no more than a ticket, while misdemeanor crimes could include fines, community service, probation, and/or minimal jail time.

In some cases, particularly egregious misdemeanors can be termed gross or aggravated, leading to more severe penalties, including more than a year of jail time. However, felonies remain the most serious criminal charges, and having a felony on your criminal record can be extremely detrimental to your life moving forward.

Felony charges can also elevate the classification and sentencing of concurrent crimes. For example, if an accidental death occurs during the commission of a felony crime, it could be deemed murder, whereas it might only be termed manslaughter (a lesser charge) if it occurred during a misdemeanor crime. It’s important to understand the magnitude of a felony charge so that you can make the best decisions regarding a plea deal or your criminal defense.

Classification of Felony Offenses in Denver

There are six classes of felony offense, with class one being the most severe and class six being the least serious. The potential penalties for these classes of felony offenses are as follows:

• Class 6

Fines of $1,000-100,000 and jail time of 12-18 months.

Class 6 felonies often include lesser charges such as possession of smaller quantities of illegal substances and minor theft. While seemingly minor compared to higher classifications, these charges can still result in significant disruption to your life, affecting employment opportunities and personal relationships.

• Class 5

Fines of $1,000-100,000 and jail time of 1-3 years.

Class 5 felonies may cover offenses like criminal trespass or a repeat offense of certain lesser charges. Navigating such charges can benefit from a nuanced legal approach that takes into account the individual circumstances of each case.

• Class 4

Fines of $2,000-500,000 and jail time of 2-6 years.

Charges classified under Class 4 can involve crimes such as theft involving significant amounts, or fraud. Defending against such charges often requires an understanding of both the law and the complexities involved in how these crimes are prosecuted.

• Class 3

Fines of $3,000-750,000 and jail time of 4-12 years.

Class 3 felonies typically include more severe offenses like burglary and certain drug-related offenses. Legal strategies to address these charges might involve intricate defenses and negotiations to mitigate potential penalties.

• Class 2

Fines of $5,000-1,000,000 and jail time of 8-24 years.

Class 2 felonies represent some of the most aggravated criminal actions, including severe assaults or extensive drug distribution activities. Defense in such cases requires thorough preparation and often aims to uncover any missteps in the investigative process or plea for reduced sentences based on specific case details.

• Class 1

There are no fines associated with class one felonies, but jail time includes a life sentence or the death penalty.

Offenses that fall into Class 1 are among the most serious, often involving heinous crimes such as premeditated murder. Legal representation for these charges must be exceptionally detailed and strategic, as the stakes involve the most severe penalties imposed by law.

Understanding the Legal Process for Felonies in Colorado

The legal process for felonies in Colorado can be complex, involving several stages that require careful navigation. From arrest to arraignment, and through to trial, each stage presents unique challenges that require a tailored approach. Understanding each step can help defendants prepare mentally and emotionally for what lies ahead.

Initial stages involve arrest and booking, where charges are formally made against an individual. This is followed by the arraignment, where the defendant is formally read their charges and asked to enter a plea. Pre-trial motions, discovery, and plea bargaining may take place before a trial is set if necessary. Each stage involves strategic legal decisions that can significantly influence the outcome.

The Impacts of a Felony Conviction in Colorado

A felony conviction in Colorado carries with it lasting consequences that can influence all aspects of life. Beyond potential imprisonment, individuals may face restrictions in employment, voting rights, and even housing opportunities due to the stigma associated with a criminal record.

In employment, background checks often reveal felony convictions, which may lead potential employers to question an individual's reliability. Similarly, securing housing can become difficult when landlords conduct background checks. Additionally, voting rights may be restricted during imprisonment, further impacting civic engagement. Understanding these impacts is crucial for anyone facing a felony charge and emphasizes the necessity of vigorous legal defense.