Each crime is classified based on its severity. As a result, you can face two different types of criminal charges in Colorado: misdemeanors and felonies. Here’s what you need to know about each of these charges:
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanor crimes are not as serious as felony crimes, but that doesn’t mean you should take misdemeanor charges lightly. Misdemeanor crimes are classified as either class 1, 2, or 3 crimes, although some crimes remain unclassified in the state of Colorado.
The most serious type of misdemeanor is a class 1. If you are convicted of a class 1 misdemeanor, you can face up to 18 months in jail along with a fine of up to $5,000. For certain offenses 24 months in jail is possible. Even the least serious type of misdemeanor charge, which is a class 3 misdemeanor, could lead to time behind bars. A class 3 misdemeanor conviction is punishable by up to six months in jail as well as a fine of up to $750.
Felonies
Felony crimes are considered to be much more serious than misdemeanor crimes, and as a result, the punishments that you face if convicted of a felony are harsher, too. Most felony charges are punishable by a minimum of one year in state prison. Some felony charges in Colorado are unclassified, but others are classified as either class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 crimes.
Class 1 felonies are the most serious charges that you can face. An example of a class 1 felony in Colorado is first degree murder. If you are convicted of a class 1 felony, you may face a life sentence in prison or even the death penalty. On the other end of the spectrum are class 6 felonies, which are the least serious type of felony charge. However, you can still face serious penalties if convicted of a class 6 felony, including up to 18 months in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
Some states also charge certain crimes as infractions, which are less serious than misdemeanors. For example, the state of California can charge someone who is disturbing the peace with an infraction. However in the state of Colorado, infractions are civil charges, not criminal charges so they do not carry the same penalties.
Regardless of whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, you will need a criminal defense attorney by your side. If you are facing criminal charges, contact Reisch Law Firm today to discuss your legal options. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
