The Most Common Felony Crimes in Colorado
Perhaps you found yourself in an unfortunate situation and are now facing drug possession charges. Maybe a disagreement escalated quickly, and now you are looking at real jail time for assault. Regardless of the accusation or circumstances, you are looking at a felony charge that could alter your life. Everything feels at risk, from your career and housing to your family and freedom.
What is considered a felony? If you are trying to understand your charges, you are not alone. The answers are more than just definitions. Knowing the most frequently charged felonies and their definitions in Colorado is the first step toward protecting your future.
This post explains the legal classification of a felony, outlines the penalties you could face, and lists some common felony examples.
What Is a Felony Charge?
Simply put, a felony is a criminal offense that is punishable by more than one year in state prison. Felonies are more serious crimes than misdemeanors or infractions, and they can have long-lasting legal, personal, and financial consequences.
Colorado categorizes felonies into six levels, from Class 1 to Class 6, with Class 1 being the most serious. There are also four categories of felony drug convictions, with class 4 being the least serious.
Does Colorado Have the Death Penalty?
In 2020, Colorado abolished the death penalty, also known as capital punishment. The state will no longer sentence individuals to death, regardless of the severity of their crimes. Instead, those convicted will serve life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Felony Examples
Not all felonies are violent, and not all are obvious. Here are some of the most common examples of felony charges in Colorado, ranging from theft to assault to drug-related crimes.
Felony Theft
When someone is accused of stealing property valued at $2,000 or more, it becomes a felony. Penalties increase with the value of the stolen items, and aggravated theft can result in years behind bars.
Assault in the Second Degree
This charge applies when a person deliberately inflicts physical harm on another person using a weapon or while committing another crime. The penalties range from two to six years in prison with mandatory parole.
Burglary
Unlawfully entering a building with intent to commit a crime, especially if it involves theft, assault, or arson, can lead to felony burglary charges. The level of felony depends on whether the building was occupied and whether weapons or threats were involved.
Drug Possession or Distribution
Possession of certain controlled substances, especially Schedule I and II drugs, can be charged as a felony, even in relatively small quantities. Mandatory sentencing involving harsher penalties applies when charged with possessing drugs with the intent to distribute (sell) them to others.
Vehicular Assault or Homicide
Driving under the influence or recklessly causing serious injury or death while operating a vehicle can result in felony vehicular assault or homicide. These charges can result in losing your driving privileges and long periods of incarceration.
Each of these felonies has its complexities, with the outcome depending on the evidence, your criminal history, and the defense strategy you employ.
What Is Considered a Felony as Opposed to a Misdemeanor?
So, what is considered a felony compared to a misdemeanor?
- Felonies—crimes that typically involve harm to persons, large financial loss, or significant social danger, that are punishable by more than one year in prison; and
- Misdemeanors—punishable by up to 364 days in jail, often involving less severe harm or lower-value property.
Even within these categories, Colorado law allows for wobbler offenses, i.e., charges that can be filed as misdemeanors or felonies based on circumstances. For example, theft of exactly $2,000 could swing either way, depending on the presence or absence of aggravating factors.
Sentencing for Felony Convictions in Colorado
Felony convictions are classified by class, with each class carrying a specific prison sentence based on the state’s felony sentencing structure:
- Class 6 felony—12 to 18 months in prison;
- Class 5 felony—1 to 3 years in prison;
- Class 4 felony—2 to 6 years in prison;
- Class 3 felony—4 to 12 years in prison;
- Class 2 felony—8 to 24 years in prison; and
- Class 1 felony—life imprisonment.
Each class includes potential fines, mandatory parole, and sentencing enhancements based on criminal history or aggravating circumstances.
Additional Consequences Beyond Prison
Felony convictions do not just affect you while you play out the criminal justice process—they affect where you live, how you earn a living, and your basic civil rights for years to come. If convicted, you may face:
- Loss of certain civil rights, including the right to vote and firearms ownership;
- Employment barriers because many employers conduct criminal background checks;
- Housing challenges since landlords may deny applications from individuals with felony records;
- Professional licenses may be denied or revoked, impacting healthcare, legal, medical, and real estate careers; and
- For non-citizens, felony convictions can lead to immigration consequences, including deportation.
Because these charges are so severe, consulting an attorney early can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case and your life.
Why Coloradans Trust The Law Offices of Susan Deschler
When your future is on the line, you need legal defense grounded in deep experience and personal commitment. Attorney Susan Deschler has over 24 years of legal experience, including time spent as a deputy district attorney and court commissioner. She brings a full-circle perspective to criminal law, understanding how prosecutors think and how courts respond.
Clients trust Susan Deschler because:
- They speak directly with her, not junior associates or staff;
- She personally prepares every case, large or small;
- She has handled a wide range of felony cases throughout Colorado; and
- Her courtroom presence is confident, strategic, and driven by compassion.
Your story matters. Your defense should reflect that.
You Cannot Change the Past. But You Can Control What Happens Next
With the right legal strategy and support, you can fight back, pursue a reduced charge, or even avoid a conviction entirely. With The Law Offices of Susan Deschler, you receive the experience, clarity, and dedication necessary to confront felony charges with strength.
Do not face this alone. Contact our law office today to build your defense and protect your future.
FAQs
Can a Felony Charge Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor?
Yes, depending on the specific offense and circumstances. With legal representation, it is possible to reduce some felony charges to misdemeanors, especially for first offenses or non-violent crimes.
Will a Felony Show Up On Background Checks?
Yes. Felony convictions appear on background checks and can affect employment, housing, and credit opportunities unless sealed by court order.
Can I Vote If I Have a Felony Conviction In Colorado?
In Colorado, your right to vote is restored after serving your sentence, including any parole. You can register and vote once you are no longer incarcerated.
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