First degree assault charges in Larimer County can result from situations where someone intentionally and seriously hurts another person. Typically involving a deadly weapon, assault in the first degree is the most severe type of assault in Colorado. Earlier this month, a Colorado woman was arrested after allegedly shooting a crossbow at an upstairs neighbor in the middle of the night. Accusations or charges of seriously injuring someone necessitates representation from an experienced first degree assault lawyer.
What is a First Degree Assault Charge in Larimer County?
C.R.S. 18-3-202 defines the conduct of first-degree assault throughout the state of Colorado. Someone commits this crime in Fort Collins, Loveland, or Estes Park if they:
- intend to cause, and do cause, serious bodily injury to another,
- seriously and permanently cause disfigurement,
- disable, destroy, or amputate a body part or organ of another,
- threaten serious bodily harm to a police officer using a deadly weapon,
- intentionally strangle or suffocate a person to cause serious bodily injury
Two key elements of assault in the first degree are the severity of injury to the victim and the use of a deadly weapon. Certain types of injuries and wounds qualify as serious bodily injury in Colorado. However, there must be a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, or loss / impairment of function. Broken or fractured bones, serious burns, stab wounds, gunshot wounds, brain damage, or even an injury causing blindness can all lead to 1st degree assault charges.
What are the Penalties for First Degree Assault in Colorado?
The consequences of a first degree assault conviction in Larimer County can significantly impact your life moving forward. 1st degree assault is most often a class 3 felony, potentially resulting in:
- 4 – 12 years in prison,
- thousands of dollars in fines
Other ramifications of a serious felony assault can include a criminal background that negates second amendment rights and the ability to pass certain background checks. This can also make finding a job out of prison and securing adequate housing extremely difficult.
Larimer County First Degree Assault Lawyer
Whether facing serious assault charges in Loveland, Estes Park, or Fort Collins, defendants need strategic legal council by their side. Time in prison, substantial fines, and loss of family and employment can all become a reality. Perhaps your case includes a lack of intent, the injuries aren’t as serious as claimed, or the events occurred in the heat of passion. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. Colorado’s best assault lawyers can carefully analyze your case and suggest next steps in forming a strong defense on your behalf.
If you or someone you know is facing felony assault charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the highly skilled defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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