A felony conviction in Colorado is life-altering. Beyond the immediate prison sentence, a felony follows you to every job application, every housing search, every professional licensing board, and every child custody proceeding for the rest of your life. When you are facing felony charges in Denver, you need an attorney who is genuinely trial-ready, deeply experienced in Colorado felony law, and completely committed to your defense. That is William Bacharach.
Colorado Felony Classifications
Colorado classifies felonies from class 1 (most serious) through class 6 (least serious), plus separate drug felony levels.
Colorado Felony Sentencing Ranges
- Class 1 Felony: Life imprisonment (first degree murder)
- Class 2 Felony: 8–24 years prison, $5,000–$1,000,000 fine
- Class 3 Felony: 4–12 years prison, $3,000–$750,000 fine
- Class 4 Felony: 2–6 years prison, $2,000–$500,000 fine
- Class 5 Felony: 1–3 years prison, $1,000–$100,000 fine
- Class 6 Felony: 12–18 months prison, $1,000–$100,000 fine
- Crime of Violence: Mandatory enhanced sentencing; doubles presumptive minimum
Violent Crime Charges William Bacharach Defends
Assault
Colorado assault charges range from a Misdemeanor 1 (third degree) to a class 3 felony (first degree). Defenses include self-defense, challenging intent, and contesting the severity of injuries. See our dedicated Assault Defense page for full information.
Robbery and Aggravated Robbery
Robbery — taking something from a person by force or threat — is a class 4 felony. Aggravated robbery involving a weapon is a class 3 felony and a crime of violence, meaning mandatory prison time. William Bacharach challenges identification evidence, intent, and the circumstances of every robbery charge.
Weapons Charges
Illegal possession of a weapon, possession by a prohibited person, menacing with a deadly weapon, and use of a firearm during a crime all carry serious penalties and often trigger federal charges. Colorado and federal weapons laws are complex — experienced representation is essential.
Kidnapping
Kidnapping charges range from class 5 felony (false imprisonment) to class 1 felony (first degree kidnapping involving ransom or sexual assault). Even minor movements of a victim during another crime can trigger kidnapping charges — these cases require immediate, experienced defense.
Arson
Arson ranges from class 4 to class 2 felony depending on the value of the property and whether people were endangered. First degree arson involving an occupied structure is among the most seriously prosecuted crimes in Colorado.
Murder and Manslaughter
First degree murder, second degree murder, and manslaughter charges demand the most rigorous defense. William Bacharach is not afraid of complex, high-stakes trials. He investigates thoroughly, works with expert witnesses, and challenges every element of the prosecution's case.
The "Crimes of Violence" Enhancement
Colorado's crime of violence statute (C.R.S. § 18-1.3-406) requires a mandatory sentence at or above the midpoint of the presumptive range when a defendant uses or threatens the use of a deadly weapon, or causes death or serious bodily injury. This dramatically limits judicial discretion at sentencing — making it critical to challenge the underlying charge before conviction.
Why Felony Defense Requires a Trial-Ready Attorney
Many attorneys settle cases without ever genuinely preparing for trial. Prosecutors know this — and they make offers accordingly. William Bacharach prepares every felony case as if it will go to trial. That preparation changes the dynamic of plea negotiations, and it means that if a trial is the right choice, he is ready.
His felony defense work includes: thorough investigation of the facts, depositions of key witnesses, motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence, working with forensic and expert witnesses, and aggressive cross-examination of the prosecution's witnesses at trial.
Frequently Asked Questions — Felony Charges in Colorado
What are the penalties for felony charges in Colorado?
Colorado felony penalties range from 1 year (F6) to life imprisonment (F1). A class 4 felony carries 2 to 6 years. A class 3 felony carries 4 to 12 years. A class 2 felony carries 8 to 24 years. All felonies carry mandatory parole periods of 1 to 5 years after release from incarceration.
What is a "crime of violence" in Colorado?
Under § 18-1.3-406, C.R.S., a crime of violence designation applies when a person used, or possessed and threatened to use, a deadly weapon, or caused serious bodily injury or death during the offense. This designation doubles the minimum presumptive sentence and makes probation unavailable.
Can felony charges be reduced in Colorado?
Yes. Felony charges can be reduced through plea negotiations, preliminary hearing challenges, suppression of evidence, and demonstrating weaknesses in the prosecution's case. A class 4 felony may be reduced to a misdemeanor; a class 3 may be reduced to a class 4. The strength of the defense often drives the outcome.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony charge in Colorado?
Absolutely. Felony convictions carry prison time, mandatory parole, fines up to $1,000,000, loss of firearm rights, loss of voting rights during incarceration, and permanent consequences for employment, housing, and immigration status. An experienced criminal defense attorney is essential from the moment of arrest.
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Facing Felony Charges in Colorado?
The decisions made in the first days after a felony arrest can shape the entire case. Call William Bacharach immediately for a free, confidential consultation.