Montrose Felony Defense Lawyer

Facing felony charges is a serious matter that can have life-changing consequences. If you are charged with a felony, hiring a qualified Montrose felony defense attorney as soon as possible can make a significant difference in your future. Felony convictions in Montrose can result in long prison sentences, substantial fines, loss of civil rights, and lasting effects on employment, housing, and personal reputation. We provide aggressive and strategic legal defense to help you protect your rights and future.

Understanding Felonies in Colorado

A felony in Colorado is any crime that carries a potential prison sentence of one year or more. Felonies are prosecuted in district courts and are more serious than misdemeanors. Colorado classifies felonies into six categories, with Class 1 being the most serious. Certain crimes, called extraordinary risk felonies, carry enhanced penalties.

Common felony charges include:

• Violent crimes such as assault, battery, domestic violence, and homicide
• Drug offenses including possession, distribution, and trafficking
• Theft and burglary
• Sexual offenses such as sexual assault, abuse, or exploitation
• White-collar crimes including fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft
• Weapons-related charges
• Domestic violence felonies

Felony Classes and Penalties

Colorado felonies are divided into six classes, each with specific penalties:

Class 1 Felony

• Examples: First-degree murder, treason
• Penalties: Life in prison or death penalty (for crimes committed before 2020)
• No probation or parole

Class 2 Felony

• Examples: Second-degree murder, kidnapping, major drug trafficking
• Penalties: 8–24 years in prison, fines up to $1,000,000

Class 3 Felony

• Examples: First-degree assault, burglary, sexual assault
• Penalties: 4–12 years in prison, fines up to $750,000

Class 4 Felony

• Examples: Manslaughter, identity theft, aggravated motor vehicle theft
• Penalties: 2–6 years in prison, fines up to $500,000

Class 5 Felony

• Examples: Menacing with a deadly weapon, forgery, certain theft crimes
• Penalties: 1–3 years in prison, fines up to $100,000

Class 6 Felony

• Examples: Criminal impersonation, failure to register as a sex offender, some drug offenses
• Penalties: 1–1.5 years in prison, fines up to $100,000

Extraordinary risk felonies, such as aggravated robbery, stalking, and child abuse, may result in additional years added to the standard sentencing ranges.

Common Defenses Against Felony Charges

Facing felony charges can feel overwhelming, but a skilled attorney can employ several defense strategies, including:

• Lack of evidence: If the prosecution cannot prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, charges may be reduced or dismissed
• Unlawful search and seizure: Violations of Fourth Amendment rights may result in evidence being excluded
• Mistaken identity: Demonstrating that the accused was not the perpetrator
• Self-defense or defense of others: Justifying actions in violent situations
• Plea bargaining: Negotiating reduced charges or alternative sentencing

Each case is unique, and a thorough review of the evidence helps determine the best strategy to minimize consequences.

Collateral Consequences of Felony Convictions

The impact of a felony conviction extends beyond prison or fines. Consequences may include:

• Loss of civil rights such as voting or firearm ownership
• Difficulty finding employment or professional licensing restrictions
• Challenges in securing housing
• Immigration issues for non-citizens
• Long-term social stigma

Understanding these effects underscores the importance of experienced legal representation to protect your future.

The Court Process

Felony cases in Montrose generally follow this process:

1. Arrest and advisement, including booking and bail
2. Preliminary hearing to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed
3. Arraignment and pretrial motions, including potential suppression of evidence or dismissal of charges
4. Trial, if the case is not resolved through a plea agreement
5. Sentencing, including potential alternatives to prison

Experienced attorneys work at each stage to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and pursue the best possible outcome.

Alternatives to Prison

Not every felony conviction results in prison. Alternatives may include:

• Probation with strict conditions
• Community corrections programs
• Drug treatment courts for substance-related offenses
• Diversion programs for first-time or lower-level felonies

These alternatives can help reduce the long-term consequences of a felony charge.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Rights

Facing felony charges in Montrose is a serious challenge. The sooner legal representation is involved, the stronger the defense can be. We are ready to review your case, explain your options, and start building a strategy to protect your future. Call The Martin Law Firm today at (970) 730-4354 to schedule your free consultation with Brent Martin.