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Colorado First Degree Assault Defense Attorney

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Defending Against First Degree Assault Charges in Colorado

First-degree assault is among the most serious violent felony charges under Colorado law. Typically charged as a Class 3 felony and often designated as a crime of violence, a conviction carries mandatory prison time and life-altering consequences. These cases often involve allegations of causing serious bodily injury with a deadly weapon or acting with extreme indifference to human life—placing everything from your freedom to your future at risk.

At Lawrence Law Firm, we provide strategic, aggressive defense for individuals accused of first-degree assault throughout Colorado. As part of our broader criminal defense representation, we understand how high the stakes are in these cases, and we move quickly to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your rights, and pursue the strongest possible outcome.

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.  For a complete overview of sentencing in Colorado, visit our Sentencing and Penalties guide.

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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.
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Collateral Consequences of a First Degree Assault 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 The Lawrence Law Firm for Your First Degree 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.

Where First Degree Assault Cases Are Heard

Because first-degree assault is a felony, cases are prosecuted in Colorado district courts based on where the alleged offense occurred. Each jurisdiction has its own prosecutors, judges, and procedures—making local experience critical to building an effective defense.

At Lawrence Law Firm, we represent clients facing serious felony charges across the Denver Metro Area, including:

No matter where your case is filed, having a defense attorney familiar with the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions 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.

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Areas of Practice

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Service Areas

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

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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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