Felony Defense Attorneys in Colorado Springs, CO
Facing a felony charge is a serious matter in Colorado Springs. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including years in prison, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that impacts your future. At Aviso Law, we understand the gravity of felony charges and provide unmatched legal expertise to protect your rights and build a strong defense.
Understanding Colorado Felonies
Felony charges in Colorado cover a range of offenses and are categorized into six classes—Class 1 is the most severe, and Class 6 is the least.
Some examples of felonies include:
- First-degree murder
- Sexual assault
- Arson
- Drug trafficking
- Aggravated robbery
Breakdown of Felony Classes and Penalties
Class 1 Felonies
This is the most severe category, reserved for crimes such as first-degree murder and treason. Convictions carry mandatory life imprisonment without parole and, in some cases, were eligible for the death penalty before 2020 (Colorado abolished the death penalty in March 2020). These charges leave no option for probation or parole, making the stakes incredibly high.
Class 2 Felonies
Examples include second-degree murder or trafficking large quantities of controlled substances. Typical sentences range from 8 to 24 years in prison, with an aggravated range extending up to 48 years. Fines for these crimes can be as high as $1,000,000, and a five-year parole period is mandatory upon release.
Class 3 Felonies
Crimes such as aggravated robbery, first-degree burglary, and serious drug offenses fall under this category. Sentencing ranges from 4 to 12 years in prison, with maximum aggravated penalties extending to 16 or even 32 years for violent crimes. Fines range from $3,000 to $750,000, and there is a mandatory five-year parole period.
Class 4 Felonies
More moderate offenses, such as vehicular homicide (without alcohol or drugs involved) or theft between $20,000 and $100,000, are classified as Class 4 felonies. These come with penalties of 2 to 6 years imprisonment, with an aggravated range going up to 8 years. Fines range from $2,000 to $500,000 and carry a three-year mandatory parole.
Class 5 Felonies
Felony-level fraud, criminal mischief, and forgery are common examples. Penalties include 1 to 3 years in prison, with aggravated circumstances increasing the maximum sentence to 4 years. Defendants may face fines of $1,000 to $100,000 and mandatory parole for two years.
Class 6 Felonies
The least severe felony category, Class 6, includes crimes like possession of smaller amounts of controlled substances or menacing involving a deadly weapon without injury. Sentences range from 12 to 18 months, with an aggravated range extending up to 2 years. Fines between $1,000 and $100,000 apply, and parole lasts for one year.
Colorado also has specific classifications for drug crimes, which are separate from other crimes. Factors such as the type of drug, the amount involved, and intent to distribute affect the severity of sentencing. Understanding these complex laws is vital, and that’s where experienced legal representation comes in.
Why Choose Aviso Law?
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Clients First
Every attorney will tell you they put their clients first. That is true for Aviso Law but it’s how we go about it that sets up apart. We understand the difference between being prepared and aggressive in courtrooms, while being understanding and pragmatic in client meetings. We believe in being realistic as well as easy to work with through all the phases of your case, both in and out of court; this saves you money and time while still receiving the service you deserve with the goal of achieving desired results.
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Proven Success
To us, success isn’t measured by the years we’ve spent behind a desk but by the careers we’ve built, the contacts we’ve made, and the thousands of clients we’ve served to protect jobs, families, education, and reputations. We developed our careers in Colorado’s military and civil courts, successfully defending clients from all walks of life. We come highly rated by our clients and have received professional recognition for our work.
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Breaking the Mold
We’re not your typical law firm. We don’t wear fancy suits (unless we have to in court) and we don’t hide behind big imposing desks. Reflective on our military roots, we strive to serve. We understand the legal process can be threatening and worrisome, which is why we work with our clients to get results. We aim to be respectful, diligent, and cost-effective while practicing the highest standards of legal representation.
