Assault in the Third Degree is a charge in Colorado that can stem from many different situations. Recently, a former assistant football coach at CU pleaded guilty to 3rd degree assault in regards to altercations with his ex-girlfriend. Allegations included statements that he repeatedly choked his former girlfriend on numerous occasions. Charges like this can damage a person’s reputation, alter or end their employment, and hurt families. If you’re caught up in a situation like this it is important to contact a skilled third-degree assault attorney in Colorado.
What is Third-Degree Assault in Colorado?
Third-Degree Assault – C.R.S. 18-3-204 is essentially a charge that stems from one person inflicting bodily injury on another person. An actor can commit this crime either knowingly or recklessly. Assault in the third degree can also occur if bodily injury is caused by a deadly weapon with criminal negligence. Bodily injury has a broad definition that includes causing someone else physical pain, illness, or impairment of physical or mental condition. This includes a bruise, cut, concussion, or even illness from coming into contact with bodily fluid. A deadly weapon refers to a firearm (loaded or unloaded), a knife, bludgeon, or other weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance that is capable of inflicting serious bodily injury or death.
Examples of Assault in the 3rd Degree | Colorado Defense Lawyer
There are many different actions that can result in a third-degree assault charge. Below are just a few generic examples:
· Throwing something that hits and injures an intimate partner
· Pushing, punching, or other horseplay that causes injury to another
· Fights resulting in cuts, bruises, or scratches
Sentencing for Third-Degree Assault in Colorado
Because 3rd Degree Assault is identified as an extraordinary risk crime, the sentence itself is enhanced. Typically, a class 1 misdemeanor in Colorado could include up to 18 months in jail. Due to the extraordinary risk title, this class 1 misdemeanor now includes up to 24 months in jail as a potential consequence. In addition, conviction can include up to a $5,000 fine. If the crime involves a victim that was pregnant and the actor knows that the victim was pregnant, a mandatory minimum of 6 months in county jail applies. It is easy to see why contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney is a critical step in any assault case.
Attorney for 3rd Degree Assault Charge in Colorado
If you’ve been arrested or charged with Assault in the Third Degree in Colorado, the first thing to do is consult an aggressive defense lawyer. Next, don’t speak to police or investigators. If they contact you, let us know and we’ll do the talking. We have the ability to put our decades of combined courtroom experience to work for you. Ensuring that all evidence is accurately and properly evaluated, we can from a defense on your behalf that is crafted with your best outcome in mind.
If you or someone you know is facing assault charges of any kind, act today. Call the experienced defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo Credit: Pixabay – Anemone123