Misdemeanor charges may not be as serious as felony charges, but they can still have significant impacts on your life. From the criminal penalties, like fines and jail, to affecting your employment opportunities and tarnishing your reputation, the consequences of being found guilty of a misdemeanor in Colorado can be far-reaching. That’s why it’s essential to hire a lawyer experienced in handling misdemeanor cases to ensure the best possible outcome. For help, contact The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC to schedule a free consultation.
Why Choose The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC For Your Misdemeanor Case?
How you handle misdemeanor charges can make the difference between a clean record and a lifetime of damage to your relationships and career. It’s crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side. That’s where The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC comes in:
- Over the past 12 years, The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC has been guiding clients through difficult life situations both in and out of the courthouse.
- The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC is known for providing professional, courteous, and creative representation for clients facing Colorado misdemeanors.
- Every client’s needs are different, which is why we are committed to providing personalized representation tailored to each individual’s specific circumstances.
How an Attorney Can Help You With a Misdemeanor Charge
Here’s a look at some of the specific steps a legal professional can take to help you achieve the best possible outcome:
1. Preliminary Evaluation and Consultation
In the initial stages, an attorney will evaluate your case by reviewing the arrest details and any available evidence. They’ll help you understand the charges against you as well as the potential consequences and possible defense strategies.
2. Negotiating a Plea Bargain
In many misdemeanor cases, lawyers can negotiate a plea bargain on your behalf. This entails reaching an agreement with the prosecution to have your charges reduced, dismissed, or modified in exchange for plea. By successfully negotiating a plea deal, your attorney can help you avoid trial and limit the impact on your criminal record.
3. Contesting the Charges
If you decide to fight the misdemeanor charges in court, an attorney will actively work to build a strong defense for your case and present it to a judge and/or jury. By mounting an aggressive and thorough defense, your attorney can help you contest the charges and avoid a conviction.
Crime Classifications in Colorado
In Colorado, criminal offenses are divided into three categories: petty offenses, misdemeanors, and felonies. Petty offenses are the least severe and can result in small fines or community service requirements. Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but still carry significant consequences.
There are also unclassified misdemeanors, which are offenses that fall outside the typical three-tier classification. One example is a first Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offense.
Examples of Class 1 Misdemeanors
Some of the common class 1 misdemeanors in Colorado include:
- Theft of Property – $1,000 to $2,000 Value
- Criminal Mischief ($1,000 to $2,000 Value)
- Indecent Exposure
Examples of Class 2 Misdemeanors
Two common class 2 misdemeanors in Colorado include:
- Theft of Property – the value of at least $300 but less than $1,000
- Criminal Tampering
Class 1 Misdemeanor Penalties in Colorado
The penalties for a class 1 misdemeanor in Colorado vary depending on the date they were committed. Generally, the penalties for a class 1 misdemeanor allegedly committed on or after March 1, 2022, carry:
- Up to 364 days in jail, and/or
- Up to $1,000 in fines
Class 1 misdemeanor crimes allegedly committed before March 1, 2022 carry a sentence of:
- 6 to 18 months in county jail, and/or
- $500 to $5,000 in fines
Penalties for Class 2 Misdemeanors
The penalties for a class 2 misdemeanor in Colorado also vary based on the date of the offense. Crimes allegedly committed on or after March 1, 2022, carry:
- Up to 120 days in jail, and/or
- Up to $750 in fines
Crimes allegedly committed before March 1, 2022, carry:
- 3 to 12 months in county jail, and/or
- $250 to $1,000 in fines
For certain misdemeanor crimes, there are exceptions, and the sentence can be longer. Always speak with a lawyer to know what you’re up against.
Contact The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC To Schedule a Free Consultation
The legal consequences of a misdemeanor charge in Colorado can be far-reaching, making it vital to consult with an experienced attorney. A criminal defense lawyer will build a strong defense for your case and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. Contact The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC to schedule a free consultation.