Being accused of assault in Colorado can be a terrifying experience. You are facing serious personal and professional consequences that could change your life forever. At a time like this, it is important to remember that there are defenses available to you that could mitigate the consequences you are facing or even have the charges against you dropped or dismissed.
It is crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can thoroughly investigate your case, build a strong defense strategy, and protect your rights. If you are facing assault charges in Colorado, contact the Law Office of Kimberly Diego today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Denver criminal defense lawyer.
What is Assault?
Assault is a serious offense under Colorado law and can be classified into different degrees depending on the severity of the harm caused. There are three main types of assault charges: assault in the first degree, assault in the second degree, and assault in the third degree.
- First-degree assault is the most serious and involves intentionally causing serious bodily injury to another person, often with a deadly weapon. This offense is considered a Class 3 felony and carries severe penalties, including significant prison time and hefty fines.
- Second-degree assault occurs when a person intentionally causes bodily injury to someone else using a deadly weapon. This offense is a Class 4 felony and can lead to substantial prison time and fines.
- Third-degree assault is the least serious assault charge in Colorado. It involves knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person. This offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor and can result in jail time and fines.
Regardless of the type of assault with which you are charged, any assault charge is serious and you should consult with a Denver criminal defense attorney experienced with handling assault charges immediately.
What are the Defenses to Assault Charges?
When facing assault charges in Colorado, there are several possible defenses that can be utilized to challenge the prosecution’s case. Some common defenses to assault charges include:
Self-Defense
If you can show that you acted in self-defense, meaning you reasonably believed that you were in immediate danger of harm and used force to protect yourself, it can serve as a defense against assault charges. Your attorney can help gather evidence and build a strong argument to support your claim of self-defense.
Defense of Others
Similar to self-defense, if you reasonably believed that another person was in immediate danger of harm and used force to protect them, it can be a valid defense. Your attorney can gather evidence and interview witnesses to establish the circumstances that led to your actions.
Consent
If the alleged victim consented to the physical contact that led to the assault charges, it can be a defense. However, it’s important to note that consent must be freely given and not obtained through coercion or deception. Your attorney can investigate the situation and present evidence of consent if applicable.
Lack of Intent
If you can demonstrate that you did not intend to cause harm or did not have the required mental state for the specific assault offense, it can be a defense. Your attorney can examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and present evidence to challenge the prosecution’s claim.
Call a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Denver Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Call the Law Office of Kimberly Diego today at (720) 257-5396 or contact us online for legal representation and support if you are facing assault charges in Denver, Colorado. Our experienced defense lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case, develop a strong defense strategy, and protect your rights throughout the legal process. Don’t face assault charges alone—call us now for a confident defense.
