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- posted: May 20, 2025
- Criminal Defense
In Colorado, crimes are classified into various categories, or classes, that determine the severity of the offense and the corresponding penalties. The primary categories of crimes in Colorado are felonies, misdemeanors and petty offenses. Understanding these classifications provides insight into the justice system's approach to prosecuting different types of criminal behavior. The level of the charge and the penalties can also help you decide the professional assistance you will need to defend yourself.
Felonies are considered the most serious type of crime in Colorado. They are further divided into six classes, ranging from most to least severe, as follows:
Class 1 — These are the most serious, often including crimes such as murder. The penalty can be life imprisonment or in certain cases capital punishment.
Class 2 includes crimes like second-degree murder or kidnapping, with penalties ranging from eight to 24 years in prison.
Classes 3 to 5 encompass crimes such as assault, burglary, and drug offenses, with varying prison terms. Class 3 felonies can result in four to 12 years in prison, while Class 5 felonies may result in one to three years.
Class 6 includes crimes like possession of certain drugs. Sentences for these felonies can range from 12 months to 18 months in prison.
Drug felonies can fall into four classes, with prison sentences ranging from six months to 32 years in prison.
Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but still are subject to significant jail time and hefty fines. They are divided into three classes in order of severity as follows:
Class 1 crimes are the most serious, with penalties of six to 18 months in jail and/or fines of up to $5,000. Examples unlawful sexual contact and certain types of assault.
Class 2 crimes can result in three to 12 months in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000. This class includes crimes such as theft of property valued between $300 and $750.
Class 3 includes offenses like criminal trespassing. Penalties can include up to six months in jail and/or fines of up to $750.
Petty offenses are the least severe type of crime in Colorado and are often punishable by fines rather than jail time. These offenses are categorized into two classes:
Class 1 convictions may result in penalties of up to six months in jail and/or fines of up to $500. Examples are certain types of public indecency or shoplifting items valued under $50.
Class 2 convictions typically result in smaller fines and no jail time. These offenses might include traffic infractions or minor in possession of alcohol.
When you are facing criminal charges in Colorado, an experienced and skillful criminal defense lawyer can step in immediately to make sure your rights are protected, including the right against self-incrimination. A defense lawyer will evaluate the facts of the case, the state’s evidence and the basis for the crime’s classification. A defense attorney can also make motions challenging the sufficiency of the state’s evidence and the legality of how it was obtained. Negotiating a plea deal with the prosecutor can often result in reducing the level of the crime, sometimes changing a felony to a misdemeanor and lowering penalties. If the case must go to trial, a defense attorney can provide effective representation.
If you have been arrested or charged with any type of crime in Colorado, please call the Polansky Law Firm in Boulder at 303-415-2583 or contact us online right away. We will promptly take all necessary steps to protect your rights.
