Greeley Misdemeanor Lawyers
Defending Against Misdemeanor Charges in Colorado
Are you facing a misdemeanor charge in Colorado? Don't let an unfortunate mistake derail your life. While a misdemeanor charge may appear to be a minor offense, it can have a significant impact in terms of criminal penalties as well as collateral damage to your future.
At Peek Goldstone, LLC, we provide top-notch legal defense for individuals navigating the complex world of Colorado misdemeanor charges. We are here to optimize your outcome in the local criminal courts through an intensive investigation, exposure of law enforcement errors or misconduct, and a well-prepared case when going to trial.
Our experienced team of criminal defense lawyers is committed to protecting your rights, future, and reputation.
Learn how we can defend you in consultation with a Greeley misdemeanor attorney. Call (970) 352-8611 or email us on our contact form.
Misdemeanors in Colorado
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses than felonies but can still have significant consequences. Unlike felonies, which are punishable by imprisonment for over one year, misdemeanor penalties typically involve fines, probation, community service, or short-term incarceration.
Colorado classifies misdemeanors into Class 1, which is the most serious, and Class 2. Certain misdemeanors are unclassified, such as DUI charges. Misdemeanors can cover a variety of offenses, including traffic offenses.
Generally, Class 1 misdemeanors carry up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Class 2 misdemeanors can carry up to 120 days of jail time and/or a fine of up to $750.
Colorado also specifies “extraordinary risk crimes” that harm others significantly. These carry harsher penalties, such as up to 18 months of jail time. Examples of extraordinary risk misdemeanors include assault in the third degree, sexual assault, child abuse, second and subsequent violations of protective (restraining) orders, and falsely reporting an emergency.
Furthermore, if you are convicted of third-degree assault against an on-duty police policer, paramedic, or firefighter, you could face up to 36 months of jail time.
Types of Misdemeanors in Colorado
Some of the most common misdemeanors in Colorado include:
- DUI/DWAI: Driving under the influence or driving while ability impaired is a serious offense with potential long-term impacts.
- Assault: Engaging in a physical altercation or threatening behavior can result in assault charges, varying in severity.
- Theft: Stealing or unlawfully taking someone else's property valued between $1,000 up to $2,000 can lead to Class 1 misdemeanor theft charges.
- Drug Possession: Unlawful possession of controlled substances, such as methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, or prescription drugs, can result in misdemeanor charges. Class 1 drug misdemeanors can result in up to 18 months in jail, with fines ranging from $500 up to $5,000.
- Trespassing: Entering or remaining on someone else's property without permission may lead to misdemeanor trespassing charges.
- Indecent Exposure: This involves knowingly exposing one's genitals to another person’s view under circumstances likely to cause alarm or offense.
- Criminal Mischief: Intentionally damaging or tampering with another person's property without their consent can be a misdemeanor.
- Driving while Texting: This is charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
- Reckless Driving: This traffic offense is charged as a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Alternative Sentencing
In misdemeanor cases, jail time is commonly reserved for repeat offenders or offenses involving violence or harm, with judges often opting for alternative sentencing options in many cases.
These alternative sentencing options can include the following:
- Probation
- Deferred sentencing
- Home detention
- Restitution to victims
- Community service programs
- Pretrial diversion
For individuals with substance abuse or behavioral issues, problem-solving courts like those for drugs, DUI, mental health, or veteran treatment may be available as potential solutions.
Minimizing the Long-Term Impact of Misdemeanors in Colorado
While misdemeanor charges may not carry the same weight as felonies, they can still have a lasting impact on your life. Convictions can affect employment opportunities, higher educational pursuits, professional licenses, financial matters, and personal relationships. It's crucial to tackle these charges head-on with the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney.
Contact Our Misdemeanor Attorneys in Greenly Today
Facing misdemeanor charges without legal representation is risky and potentially detrimental. By hiring a seasoned criminal defense lawyer at our firm, we can thoroughly assess your case by meticulously examining the evidence, police reports, witness testimony, and more to build a solid defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Our experienced attorneys are skilled negotiators who can engage in plea bargaining or seek reduced charges or alternative sentencing options whenever possible. If your case goes to trial, we'll provide aggressive courtroom representation, leveraging our experience to present a compelling defense on your behalf.
Dealing with misdemeanor charges can be overwhelming, but our compassionate team will be by your side every step of the way, providing guidance and support through this challenging process.
Contact Peek Goldstone, LLC at (970) 352-8611 for a strong defense strategy.
