Classes of Felony Crimes In Colorado

CLASS 1

Class 1 felonies are the highest level of felony in Colorado, punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty. (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1.3-401.) First-degree murder and First Degree Kidnapping are examples of a class 1 felonies.

CLASS 2

In Colorado, class 2 felonies are punishable by 8 to 24 years in prison and a fine of $5,000 to $1,000,000. (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1.3-401.) Attempted 1st Degree Murder and 2nd Degree Murder are examples of class 2 felonies.

CLASS 3

A conviction for a class 3 felony in Colorado can range in a prison sentence of 4 to 12 years and a fine of $3,000 to $750,000. (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1.3-401.) For example, 1st Degree Assault is a class 3 felony.

CLASS 4

Class 4 felony crimes are punishable by a range of 2 to 6 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $2,000 to $500,000. (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1.3-401.) 2nd Degree Assault is an example of a class 4 felony in Colorado.

CLASS 5

Colorado law punishes class 5 felonies with a sentence of 1 to 3 years in prison and a fine of $1,000 to $100,000 for a class 5 felony conviction. (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1.3-401.) Felony Menacing is a class 5 felony.

CLASS 6

Class 6 felonies are the least serious felonies in Colorado, punishable by 1 year to 18 months in prison and a fine of $1,000 to $100,000. (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1.3-401.) False Information to a Pawn Broker is an example of a class 6 felony.

Increased Penalties For Felony Crimes Of Violence (COV)

In Colorado Springs pursuant to C.R.S. 18-1.3-406, certain crimes are considered “per se crimes of violence”, these include:

• Used, or possessed and threatened the use of, a deadly weapon; or
• Caused serious bodily injury or death to any other person except another participant
• Any crime against an at-risk adult or at-risk juvenile;
• Murder;
• First or second-degree assault;
• Kidnapping;
• Strangulation;
• Certain sexual offenses;
• Aggravated robbery;
• First-degree arson;
• First-degree burglary;
• Criminal extortion;

When a crime is designated as a “crime of violence,” the presumptive sentencing range listed above is increased. The sentencing range increased to a minimum of the mid-point of the presumptive range, up to two times the maximum of the presumptive range. It’s important to remember that the presumptive sentencing range for a specific offense, may be different than what’s listed above. For instance, second-degree assault is a class four felony in Colorado. While normally, the presumptive sentencing for a class four felony is 2-4 years in prison. However, because second-degree assault is a crime of violence, that means it falls into an “enhanced crimes” range of sentencing here in Colorado, and the sentencing range is 5 years up to a maximum of 16 years, assuming that the violent crimes enhancement is given because of the use of a deadly weapon.

Local Laws and Court Procedures

Understanding local laws and court procedures is crucial when facing felony charges in Colorado Springs. The Colorado Springs Municipal Court, which handles violations of the city’s charter and ordinances, operates under specific rules that can impact the outcome of a case. For instance, the court follows the Colorado Rules of Municipal Court Procedure, state statutes, city ordinances, and local orders. As an attorney practicing in this jurisdiction, it’s important to be familiar with procedures such as filing motions, scheduling court dates, and handling discovery requests. Counsel can enter their appearance via mail, fax, or in person at the Clerk’s office, and all documents must be filed in accordance with court guidelines. To learn more about these procedures and how they affect your case, refer to the Colorado Springs Municipal Court Attorney Practice Guide.

Experience with Local Courts

Navigating the local court system in Colorado Springs requires understanding the specific procedures and schedules of the Municipal Court. Initial appearances for city criminal ordinances and traffic violations are held Monday through Thursday at 1:30 PM, with criminal violations carrying penalties of up to $2,500 and/or 189 days in jail. The court also provides essential rights advisements and appoints attorneys for individuals who cannot afford representation when a jail sentence is possible. Additionally, individuals have the right to subpoena witnesses and request pre-trial settlement conferences. If a satisfactory resolution is not reached, cases are set for trial. Understanding these local procedures is key to effectively navigating the Colorado Springs Municipal Court. For more details on how cases are handled, including sentencing, subpoenas, and trials, refer to the Colorado Springs Municipal Court Criminal Procedures.

Costs and Fees

When considering legal matters in Colorado Springs, understanding the associated filing fees is crucial. The Colorado Judicial Branch outlines the costs for various cases, including civil, small claims, and criminal cases. For example, small claims cases involve specific fees depending on the amount in dispute. Plaintiffs filing claims up to $500 will incur a fee of $31, while those seeking claims between $500.01 and $7,500 will pay $55. Defendants face similar fees: $26 for claims up to $500 and $41 for amounts ranging from $500.01 to $7,500. These fees are subject to change, and it’s essential to stay informed about any adjustments that may occur.

For the most up-to-date fee schedule, you can consult the official Colorado Judicial Branch fee schedule. This will ensure you have the most accurate and current information as you navigate your legal case.

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