When navigating the legal landscape in Colorado Springs, it’s vital to comprehend the clear distinction between felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies are categorized as more serious crimes, leading to imprisonment for a year or more, along with hefty fines. On the flip side, misdemeanors hold less severity than felonies but are deemed more serious than minor offenses. They often come with shorter jail time and/or fines and can lead to alternative sentencing such as community service or probation.

But what counts as a felony and what counts as a misdemeanor under Colorado Springs law? Read more from Murphy & Price, LLP, and contact our criminal defense lawyers now for a free consultation. Let us help you understand the law and review your case!

What Is a Misdemeanor?

In Colorado Springs, misdemeanors are divided into three categories: regular, drug, and traffic. They are further segmented into classes varying from class one (the highest risk) to less severe classifications. High-risk misdemeanors may include cases of sexual assault, third-degree assault, and child abuse, and may result in more jail time due to their risk to society.

Understanding these categorizations aids in establishing the expected punishment and our Colorado defense attorneys can help you better understand them.

What Is a Felony?

When it comes to felony charges, Colorado Springs classifies them as level one through level six, determined by the gravity of the offense and the corresponding prescribed sentences and fines. Level one felonies are considered the most severe, including offenses like first-degree murder and child abuse causing death.

Different levels entail varied consequences and fines, with drug felonies being categorized separately to ensure correct sentencing. A level six felony, however, would encompass charges of theft or impersonation. If you’re unsure of where your case stands, contact our criminal defense attorneys.

When Misdemeanors Escalate to Felonies

An essential aspect to be cognizant of in the legal system is the potential escalation of misdemeanors to felony charges. Certain factors like prior criminal history, the severity of the offense, or substantial harm caused can lead to a misdemeanor being upgraded to a felony charge. Instances such as repeated DUI offenses or assault with a deadly weapon may warrant the escalation to a felony due to the heightened risk and impact these acts impose. If you have a criminal background or are at risk of having your misdemeanor case considered a class one to two felony, get in touch with Murphy & Price, LLP.

Navigate Colorado Springs Laws With Murphy & Price, LLP

Understanding the distinctions between felonies and misdemeanors and the classifications of each is important for understanding what your future may look like. Let the criminal attorneys from Murphy & Price, LLP help you understand what jail time or fines you may be facing and help you plan. Contact us now!

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