Assault and Menacing Defense Lawyer in Denver, CO

Assault and Menacing charges are serious accusations that can have life-changing consequences. These charges are among the most common criminal cases in Colorado, but they’re nothing to be taken lightly. 

While many states use the term “menacing” for crimes involving physical harm or threats, Colorado often uses the charge of “menacing” in similar situations.

Specifically, Colorado law defines “menacing” as intentionally making someone afraid that they are about to be seriously hurt. So, actions that might be considered menacing elsewhere could fall under the menacing statute in Colorado.

Facing assault or menacing charges? Don’t wait to protect your rights. Contact Jones Law Firm today for a consultation and let our experienced attorneys fight for you.

What Are Assault and Menacing Charges in Colorado?

If you’re not familiar with these terms, let’s break them down a bit. While they’re often grouped together, assault and menacing are distinct offenses in Colorado.

What is Assault?

Assault, under Colorado law, is defined as knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person. This means that even if no physical contact occurred, you could still face assault charges if your actions or threats intentionally made someone fear for their safety.

Let’s say you threatened someone or raised your fist in a way that made them believe they were about to be hit – that could be considered assault.

What is Menacing?

Under Colorado law (CRS 18-3-206), menacing is defined as knowingly placing or attempting to place another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury34. This can occur with or without physical contact.

Misdemeanor menacing (CRS 18-3-206(1)) involves placing someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury without the use of a deadly weapon3.

Felony menacing (CRS 18-3-206(1)) involves using a deadly weapon or representing an item as a deadly weapon during the act of placing someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury3.

Penalties for Assault and Menacing in Colorado

The penalties for these offenses can vary, but they’re often severe. Here’s a breakdown of what you might face if convicted:

• Incarceration: Jail or prison time is a common punishment for assault and menacing, depending on whether it’s charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A simple assault might result in up to two years in jail, while aggravated assault could lead to years in prison.
• Fines: These can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Felony assault or menacing cases often come with hefty fines, on top of the potential for jail time.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for assault or menacing stays on your record, which can affect your ability to get a job, rent a home, or even maintain certain professional licenses.

The consequences of a conviction go beyond jail time or fines—they can impact your future in ways you may not have considered.

Factors That Affect Sentencing

Several elements influence the penalties you might face if convicted:

• Severity of the Assault: The seriousness of the injuries caused can lead to harsher penalties.
• Use of a Weapon: The involvement of any type of weapon, including a firearm or even something as simple as a rock or bottle, can elevate the charges and lead to more severe consequences.
• Criminal History: If this isn’t your first run-in with the law, especially for similar charges, you could face stiffer penalties.

With so much on the line, having a strong defense is crucial.

How Jones Law Firm Can Help

At Jones Law Firm, we believe everyone deserves a strong defense. We take the same meticulous approach to criminal defense as we do with estate law—focused, strategic, and always with your best interests at heart. Here’s how we can help if you’re facing assault and menacing charges:

Thorough Investigation

We’ll dive into every detail of your case, examining the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing police reports. Our goal is to uncover the facts that can work in your favor.

Challenging the Prosecution’s Evidence

We’ll carefully scrutinize the evidence presented by the prosecution, looking for any inconsistencies or weaknesses. Is the testimony of witnesses reliable? Were your rights violated during the investigation or arrest? We’ll make sure every angle is explored.

Developing a Strong Defense Strategy

Every case is unique, and we treat it that way. We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we’ll build a defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case, whether that means seeking reduced charges, negotiating a plea deal, or preparing for trial.

Establishing Reasonable Doubt

In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Our job is to create that doubt. By examining every aspect of the case, we’ll work to show that the evidence doesn’t meet the high burden of proof required for a conviction.

Negotiating for Reduced Charges

While we’re always prepared to go to trial, we also explore options for reducing your charges or penalties. In some cases, we can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or have penalties lessened, depending on the circumstances.

What Should You Do If You’re Charged with Assault or Menacing?

If you’ve been charged with assault or menacing, the first thing you should do is contact an attorney. Here are a few immediate steps to protect yourself:

• Remain Silent: It’s important not to speak with law enforcement until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
• Gather Information: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including any witnesses and details of what happened.
• Follow Legal Advice: Once you hire a defense attorney, it’s important to follow their advice closely.

Facing Assault and Menacing Charges? We Can Help.

If you or someone you care about is facing assault or menacing charges, don’t wait. Contact us at Jones Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your case and help you understand your legal options. Call us now at 720-513-5983  or reach out online to schedule a meeting.

At Jones Law Firm, we’re here to defend your rights and help you through this difficult time. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.