Denver Night Skyline - First Degree Assault Defense Attorney

Colorado First Degree Assault Defense Attorney

Serious Charges Need Serious Defense

Schedule a Free Consultation

Defending Against the Most Serious Assault Charges in Colorado

First degree assault is one of the most severe violent criminal charges under Colorado law. Classified as a Class 3 felony and a crime of violence, it carries mandatory prison time upon conviction. If you are accused of causing serious bodily injury with a deadly weapon or through extreme recklessness, your freedom and future are on the line.

At Lawrence Law Firm, we provide aggressive defense for individuals facing first degree assault charges in Colorado. We understand the stakes — and we fight tirelessly to protect your rights.

What Is First Degree Assault in Colorado?

Under C.R.S. 18-3-202, first degree assault occurs when someone:

  • Intentionally causes serious bodily injury to another person using a deadly weapon.

  • Disfigures or disables another person permanently.

  • Engages in conduct that creates a grave risk of death and causes serious bodily injury.

  • Uses a deadly weapon against a peace officer, firefighter, or emergency responder while they are performing official duties.

“Serious bodily injury” is defined broadly and includes injuries that involve a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, or long-term impairment.

Because the statute is written broadly, prosecutors often pursue the harshest version of the charge, making it essential to have a skilled first degree assault defense attorney in Colorado.

Penalties for First Degree Assault in Colorado

The penalties for a conviction are among the harshest in state law:

  • Class 3 Felony: First degree assault is punishable by 8 to 24 years in prison, plus fines ranging from $3,000 to $750,000.

  • Crime of Violence Mandatory Sentencing: If the offense involved a deadly weapon or resulted in serious bodily injury, it qualifies as a violent crime. That means a judge must impose mandatory prison time. Probation is not an option.

  • Aggravated Range: In extreme cases, sentences can exceed 32 years in prison.

  • Mandatory Parole: Up to 5 years of supervision following incarceration.

  • Permanent Felony Record: Convictions cannot be sealed or expunged.

Key Point: Even first-time offenders face mandatory prison if convicted of first degree assault.

Request a Free Consultation

If you are facing charges, an experienced First Degree Assault 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.
Get In Touch Today

Collateral Consequences of a Conviction

The impact of a felony violent crime conviction extends far beyond prison:

  • Employment: Many careers are closed to individuals with violent felony records.

  • Housing: Felony convictions make it difficult to rent or buy property.

  • Firearms: A lifetime ban on possessing or owning firearms.

  • Immigration: Deportation or denial of legal status for non-citizens.

  • Reputation: A lasting stigma that affects personal and professional relationships.

Defenses to First Degree Assault Charges

Because of the severity of the penalties, every detail of the case must be challenged. Potential defenses include:

  • Self-Defense or Defense of Others: Demonstrating that you used force lawfully to protect yourself or someone else.

  • Challenging “Serious Bodily Injury”: Medical records and expert testimony may show the injury does not meet Colorado’s definition.

  • Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that injuries were caused intentionally, not by accident.

  • False or Exaggerated Allegations: Exposing inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements.

  • Constitutional Violations: Suppressing unlawfully obtained evidence.

Reducing or dismissing the violent crime designation can mean the difference between mandatory prison and a less severe outcome.

Why Hire Lawrence Law Firm for Assault Defense?

  • Proven Experience with Violent Crimes: We know how prosecutors use the crime of violence statute — and how to fight back.

  • Local Knowledge: Familiar with judges and prosecutors across Colorado, including Denver, Arapahoe, Adams, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties.

  • Aggressive Trial Advocacy: Prepared to negotiate, file motions, and take cases to trial when necessary.

  • Personalized Representation: Every client’s case is unique, and our defense strategies reflect that.

When your freedom is at stake, you need a Colorado assault defense lawyer who will fight tirelessly on your behalf.

How Lawrence Law Firm Supports Clients

Where First Degree Assault Cases Are Heard

Because first degree assault is a felony, all cases are filed in district courts. Depending on the location, your case may be heard in:

FAQs About First Degree Assault in Colorado

Is first degree assault always a violent crime?
Yes. When the offense involves serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon — as most cases do — it is designated a crime of violence, requiring mandatory prison time.

Can probation be given for first degree assault?
No. Judges must impose prison sentences for violent crime felonies. The only way to avoid prison is through charge reduction, dismissal, or acquittal.

What is the minimum sentence for first degree assault?
The minimum is 8 years in prison, and aggravated cases can reach 32 years or more.

Can first degree assault charges be reduced?
Yes. Skilled defense attorneys may negotiate a reduction to second- or third-degree assault, which carry less severe penalties and, in some cases, alternatives to prison.

Take Action Immediately – Mandatory Prison Is at Stake

First degree assault charges are among the most serious in Colorado law. With mandatory prison time and life-altering consequences, waiting to act can cost you your freedom.

At Lawrence Law Firm, we fight aggressively to protect clients accused of violent crimes. We serve clients in Denver, Aurora, Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties, and throughout Colorado.

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

Schedule a Free Consultation

Areas of Practice

Protect Your Rights

Service Areas

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

Speak with a First Degree Assault 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

Name(Required)
Please let us know how we can help. Someone from our office will reach out shortly.