Facing assault charges is a serious legal matter that can have life-altering consequences. In Colorado, assault charges are elevated to felony level offenses when the government claims the alleged victim sustained “serious” injuries or that a deadly weapon was used to cause the injuries. Felony, or first degree, assault charges carry severe penalties such as long-term imprisonment, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you or a loved one is under investigation or has been charged with assault, securing experienced legal representation is crucial. At Fleener Petersen Law, our seasoned attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights. We’ll challenge the prosecution’s case, and pursue the best possible outcome for you.
What are Serious First Degree Assault Crimes in Colorado?
Under Colorado law, first-degree assault is the most serious assault charge, and a person is charged when a person suffers serious physical injury.
In Colorado, the serious physical injury must have been caused by a deadly weapon. Other scenarios arise infrequently, like threats to judges, firefighters, or corrections officers, and other rarely occurring acts.
The most common example of an action that leads to a first-degree assault charge in Colorado is when a person uses a firearm, knife, or other deadly weapon to seriously injure another person.
A conviction for first-degree assault can lead to years or even decades in prison, making it essential to have a strong defense strategy. Fleener Petersen Law is here to represent you as your first degree assault attorney.
Penalties for First Degree Assault
Colorado will impose harsh penalties for these enhanced assault charges, which may include:
- Prison Sentences – A conviction can lead to up to 25 years or more in prison, depending on the circumstances.
- Fines – Offenders may face tens of thousands of dollars in fines.
- Criminal Record – A conviction can severely impact employment opportunities, housing applications, and firearm rights.
- Additional Consequences – In some cases, restitution to the victim or mandatory anger management courses may be required.
Because of the severe penalties associated with first-degree assault, it is critical to build a strong defense immediately. Your Fleener Petersen first degree assault attorney team will ensure the best defense possible.
How Our First Degree Assault Attorney Team Defends Against Charges
At Fleener Petersen Law, our experienced first degree assault attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case. Your first degree assault attorney team will develop the best possible defense strategy. Some potential defenses against first-degree assault charges include:
- Self-Defense – If you acted in self-defense or defense of others, we could argue that you were justified in using force.
- Lack of Intent – If the injury was accidental, we may challenge the intent requirement of the charge.
- Mistaken Identity – In cases where witnesses or evidence are unreliable, we may argue that you were falsely accused.
Contact a Skilled First Degree Assault Attorney Today
If you are facing a first-degree assault charge in Colorado, time is of the essence. Prosecutors will aggressively pursue the maximum penalties, and you need a legal team that will fight just as hard for your freedom and future.
At Fleener Petersen Law, we bring decades of criminal defense experience to the table. We will provide aggressive and strategic representation for clients facing serious charges. We understand the stress and uncertainty of criminal cases and are committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our first degree assault attorney team start building your defense.
