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Colorado Menacing Defense Attorney

Experienced Representation for Menacing and Weapons Charges in Colorado

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Protecting Your Rights Against Menacing Charges in Colorado

Menacing may sound less serious than other violent crimes, but under Colorado criminal law it can carry felony penalties β€” especially when a deadly weapon is involved. A conviction can mean prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you have been accused of menacing, you need an experienced Colorado menacing defense attorney who knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your future.

At Lawrence Law Firm, we defend clients throughout Denver, Aurora, Arapahoe, Adams, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties. We fight aggressively to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible.

What is Menaing Under Colorado Law?

Under Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) 18-3-206, menacingΒ involves knowingly placingβ€”or attempting to placeβ€”another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury or death. However, the law emphasizes the defendant’s actions and intent rather than the victim’s actual fear.

  • Misdemeanor Menacing: When no deadly weapon is used, menacing is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
  • Felony Menacing: If a deadly weapon (real or simulated) is involved, the charge escalates to a Class 5 felony.

Deadly weapons include firearms, knives, or even objects that appear to be weapons. Simulating a weapon, such as gesturing with a hidden hand in a threatening way, can also lead to felony charges.

Important: Menacing can also be designated as an act of domestic violence if the defendant and the alleged victim were in an intimate relationship.

Our menacing defense attorney handles both misdemeanor and felony cases.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Menacing

  • Misdemeanor Menacing:
    Threatening or placing someone in fear without the use of a deadly weapon. Classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.

  • Felony Menacing:
    When the alleged threat involves use (or simulated use) of a deadly weaponβ€”or when the defendant verbally or otherwise suggests that they are armedβ€”the charge escalates to a Class 5 felony.

    • Punishable by 1–3 years in prison, fines up to $100,000, and 2 years of mandatory parole.

    • If aggravating factors apply, sentencing may increase further.

Key Point: Even if no weapon is found, simply claiming to have one or making a gesture that suggests a weapon may trigger felony menacing charges.

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If you are facing charges, an experienced Menacing Defense Attorney can make the difference between conviction and freedom. Contact The Lawrence Law Firm today to protect your rights and fight for your future.
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Collateral Consequences of a Menacing Conviction

Moreover, a conviction carries lasting impacts far beyond just jail or prison time:

  • A permanent criminal record that cannot be sealed if it involves a felony.

  • Difficulty finding employment, especially in fields requiring background checks.

  • Loss of firearm rights in felony cases.

  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens, including deportation.

  • Strained personal and professional relationships due to the stigma of a violent crime conviction.

Therefore, even misdemeanor menacing charges should be taken seriously.

Menacing and Domestic Violence

In Colorado, menacing charges frequently intersect with domestic violence (DV) designations. If the alleged victim is an intimate partner, spouse, or family member, the case may be charged as menacing with a domestic violence enhancer.

This adds mandatory protections orders, firearm restrictions, and DV treatment requirements under Colorado law. Consequently, in practice, this can mean:

  • Immediate mandatory arrest at the scene.

  • Prohibition on returning to your home until a court order is modified.

  • Enrollment in domestic violence treatment programs approved by the DVOMB.

These consequences can upend your life before you even step into a courtroom. Retaining an experienced Aurora criminal defense lawyer familiar with both menacing and domestic violence laws is essential to mitigating these harsh outcomes.

How Prosecutors Build Menacing Cases

Moreover, district attorneys often rely on:

  • Testimony from the alleged victim or witnesses.

  • 911 calls, police reports, or surveillance footage.

  • Allegations of weapon possession or threatening gestures.

Unfortunately, menacing charges often arise from misunderstandings, heated arguments, or exaggerated accusations. What one person interprets as a threat may not legally qualify as menacing.

Defenses to Menacing Charges in Colorado

A skilled menacing defense attorney in Colorado will evaluate every fact in your case. Several strong defenses may apply in a Colorado menacing case. For example:

  • Lack of intent β€” The defendant never knowingly placed another person in fear.

  • No weapon β€” The alleged weapon either did not exist or was never present.

  • Self-defense β€” The defendant acted reasonably to protect themselves under the circumstances.

  • False accusation β€” The accuser exaggerated events or fabricated the story altogether.

As a result, when an experienced lawyer presents these defenses, they can often achieve a reduction in charges, a full dismissal, or even an acquittal.

Why Choose Lawrence Law Firm?

  • Experience with Menacing and Assault Cases: We know how to challenge both misdemeanor and felony menacing charges.

  • Local Court Knowledge: Regularly defending cases in Denver, Arapahoe, Adams, Douglas, and Jefferson County courts.

  • Aggressive Defense: From pre-trial motions to jury trial, we fight to weaken the prosecution’s case at every stage.

  • Personalized Approach: We tailor strategies to the unique facts of your case and your goals.

With Experience in Menacing and Assault Cases, we’re able to challenge both misdemeanor and felony menacing charges effectively.

Where Menacing Cases Are Handled in Colorado

Menacing cases are generally filed in county courts for misdemeanors or in district courts for felonies. For example, some key courthouses include:

Knowing the courthouse where your case is filed helps us anticipate local practices and tailor your defense.

FAQs About Menacing in Colorado

Is menacing a felony in Colorado?
It depends. Menacing without a weapon is a misdemeanor. If a deadly weapon is involved, or if you claim or appear to have one, it becomes a felony.

Can you go to jail for menacing?
Yes. Misdemeanor menacing can result in up to 364 days in jail. Felony menacing can mean years in prison.

What is aggravated menacing?
Aggravated menacing generally refers to felony menacing involving a deadly weapon or the threat of one.

Can menacing charges be dropped?
Yes. With a strong defense, charges may be reduced or dismissed if evidence is weak or if legal defenses apply.

Take Action Now – Protect Your Future

Criminal charges in Colorado can escalate quickly and result in serious, life-changing consequences. Whether you are accused of a misdemeanor or felony, you need immediate legal representation.

At Lawrence Law Firm, we provide experienced and aggressive defense for clients accused of menacing and other violent crimes across the Denver metro area and throughout Colorado.

πŸ“ž Call us today at 720-369-4929 for a free consultation or use our secure online form to schedule your case review.

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Areas of Practice

Protect Your Rights

Service Areas

  • Denver County
  • Arapahoe County
  • Adams County
  • Douglas County
  • Jefferson County

Contact Our Menacing Defense Attorney

Contact Information

Address

2821 S. Parker Rd. Suite 865 Aurora, CO 80014

Contact

lain@coloradodefenders.com Ph: 720-369-4929

Hours

Monday-Friday: 8 am - 6 pm Weekends and Afterhours By Appointment

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