Serving Aurora, Denver Metro & Colorado | 15+ Years of Criminal Defense Experience
Colorado Second Degree Assault Defense Attorney
Strong Defense Against Serious Charges
Fighting Second Degree Assault Charges in Colorado
Second degree assault in Colorado is an aggravated criminal charge. If the charge involves serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon, it is classified as a crime of violence. That designation carries mandatory prison time if you are convicted — probation is not an option.
Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, and the consequences can follow you for life. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial when facing these types of charges.
If you or a loved one faces this charge, you need a Colorado second degree assault defense attorney who understands how to challenge violent crime allegations and fight for your future. At Lawrence Law Firm, we stand ready to protect your rights.
What is Second Degree Assault in Colorado?
Second degree assault is defined under C.R.S. 18-3-203. It includes:
Intentionally or recklessly causing serious bodily injury to another person.
Using a deadly weapon to cause bodily injury.
Injuring a peace officer or emergency responder while they are performing official duties.
Strangulation or suffocation resulting in bodily injury.
Administering drugs or substances without consent to cause harm.
Because “serious bodily injury” and “deadly weapon” are defined broadly, prosecutors often push for the most severe version of the charge — one that qualifies as a crime of violence.
Penalties for Second Degree Assault in Colorado
A conviction for second degree assault can result in devastating penalties:
Mandatory Prison Sentence (Crime of Violence):
If the assault involved serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon, the offense is treated as a violent crime under Colorado law. That triggers a mandatory minimum of 5 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections, with a sentencing range up to 16 years or more in aggravated cases. Judges cannot grant probation in these cases.Non-Violent Second Degree Assault:
In limited circumstances (where serious bodily injury and weapons are not involved), second degree assault may still be charged as a Class 4 felony with a sentencing range of 2–6 years in prison and fines up to $500,000.Mandatory Parole: 3 years following prison time.
Permanent Criminal Record: Felony convictions cannot be sealed or expunged.
Key takeaway: If your case involves serious bodily injury, you are facing mandatory prison time unless the charge is reduced or dismissed. For a complete overview of potential consequences, see our Colorado Sentencing and Penalties guide.
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If you are facing charges, an experienced Second 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.
Collateral Consequences of a Second Degree Assault Conviction
Even beyond incarceration, a felony violent crime conviction impacts your life permanently:
Loss of employment and career opportunities.
Permanent ban on firearm possession.
Immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Lasting stigma of a violent felony on your record.
Defenses to Second Degree Assault Charges
Because the stakes are so high, your defense must address not only the underlying assault allegations but also the violent crime designation. Possible defenses include:
Challenging “Serious Bodily Injury”: Proving that the alleged injuries do not meet Colorado’s strict legal definition can remove the violent crime enhancement.
Self-Defense: Showing that you acted reasonably to protect yourself or others.
Lack of Intent: Demonstrating the injury was accidental rather than intentional or reckless.
False Allegations or Exaggeration: Cross-examining witnesses and exposing credibility issues.
Insufficient Evidence: Holding prosecutors to their burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
The difference between a violent crime designation and a lesser charge can mean the difference between mandatory prison and potential alternatives such as probation.
Why Choose Our Second Degree Assault Defense Attorney
Experience with Violent Crime Defense: We understand how prosecutors use the “crime of violence” statute and how to fight it.
Local Court Insight: Familiarity with judges and prosecutors across the Denver metro area.
Aggressive Negotiation & Trial Work: From charge reduction strategies to trial defense, we push for outcomes that avoid mandatory prison whenever possible.
Personalized Representation: Every client receives a tailored defense plan.
How The Lawrence Law Firm Supports Clients in Colorado
At Lawrence Law Firm, we understand that a domestic violence allegation can turn your life upside down. Our attorneys provide:
Careful review of police reports, recordings, and witness statements.
Aggressive challenges to unreliable or unlawfully obtained evidence.
Skilled negotiation with prosecutors to pursue reduced charges or treatment alternatives.
Experienced trial defense when going before a jury is the best option.
Strategies to protect your future, including minimizing long-term consequences.
Our Second Degree Assault Defense Attorney’s goal is always to secure the best possible outcome while giving you the personal attention you deserve.
How The Lawrence Law Firm Supports Clients in Colorado
Second degree assault is a felony offense prosecuted in Colorado district courts, but the process can vary depending on where charges are filed. Local prosecutors, judicial tendencies, and courtroom procedures all influence how a case progresses.
We maintain dedicated pages for each jurisdiction we serve, allowing you to access location-specific guidance and defense strategies. If your case is pending in the Denver Metro Area, start with your local page:
FAQs About Second Degree Assault in Colorado
Is second degree assault always a violent crime?
Not always. However, when the case involves serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon, it qualifies as a crime of violence — making prison mandatory. It is always important to speak with an assault defense attorney in these types of case.
Can probation be given for second degree assault?
Only if the charge does not include serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon. In violent crime cases, probation is not an option.
What is the minimum prison sentence for violent second degree assault?
A mandatory minimum is only required in crimes of violence. In those cses, the mandatory minimum is 5 years in prison, with the potential for much higher sentences depending on aggravating factors.
Start Your Defense Today
If you are charged with second degree assault involving serious bodily injury, you are facing a mandatory prison sentence under Colorado’s violent crime laws. Your future, freedom, and family are at risk.
At Lawrence Law Firm, we have the knowledge and experience to challenge these charges head-on. We serve clients in Denver, Aurora, Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties, and throughout Colorado.
📞 Call today at 720-369-4929 for a free consultation or use our secure online form to schedule your case review.
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Service Areas
- Denver County
- Arapahoe County
- Adams County
- Douglas County
- Jefferson County
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2821 S. Parker Rd. Suite 865
Aurora, CO 80014
Contact
lain@coloradodefenders.com
Ph: 720-369-4929
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