Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyers for Those Facing Murder Charges in Denver, CO and Surrounding Areas
At WeedenLaw, we understand the gravity surrounding homicide charges. Denver criminal defense attorney Jeff Weeden and his team are committed to providing unparalleled legal defense strategies for those facing such serious criminal charges.
With extensive knowledge of the Colorado legal system and a track record of vigorously defending our clients, we strive to ensure that your rights are protected. At WeedenLaw, we believe in a comprehensive approach to defense, combining thorough investigation, strategic planning, and unwavering advocacy to seek the best possible outcome for our clients.
To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Denver criminal defense attorneys, call WeedenLaw at (720) 307-4330 or reach out online today.
Types of Homicide Charges in Colorado
In Colorado, homicide charges encompass a range of offenses, each carrying its own implications and potential consequences. The various types of homicide charges recognized under Colorado law include first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide. Understanding homicide charges in Colorado is crucial as they differ significantly in terms of intent, circumstances, and penalties.
If you’ve been charged with homicide in Denver, the Colorado criminal defense attorneys at WeedenLaw are ready to fight for your rights. To learn how our law office can represent you against such serious allegations, call WeedenLaw today.
First-Degree Murder
Colorado Revised Statute § 18-3-102 defines first-degree murder as the intentional and premeditated killing of another person. It is the most serious form of homicide under Colorado law. This statute specifies that such an act must be committed after deliberation and with the intent to cause the death of another person. The law also includes situations where a death occurs during the commission of, or an attempt to commit, certain felonies, known as felony murder. First-degree murder convictions result in severe penalties, potentially including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder, defined under Colorado Revised Statute § 18-3-103, occurs when a person knowingly causes the death of another but without the premeditation typically required for first-degree murder. The main difference between second-degree murder and first-degree murder is the absence of deliberation or pre-planning. It often involves situations where the perpetrator acts impulsively or in the heat of passion, leading to the death of another. While it is less severe than first-degree murder, second-degree murder still carries significant legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences.
Criminally Negligent Homicide
Criminally negligent homicide in Colorado is defined under Colorado Revised Statute § 18-3-105. This charge applies when an individual causes the death of another person through criminal negligence. Criminal negligence is when the person fails to perceive a substantial and unjustifiable risk that a certain result will occur or that a circumstance exists. The risk must be such that the failure to perceive it constitutes a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would exercise in the same situation.
This type of homicide is distinguished from other forms, such as manslaughter or murder, by the absence of intent to kill or cause harm. Instead, it focuses on the individual’s failure to recognize and address a significant risk, leading to another person’s death. The penalties for criminally negligent homicide are generally less severe than those for murder or manslaughter but still represent a serious legal consequence.
If you’ve been arrested on these charges, contact a Denver criminally negligent homicide attorney at WeedenLaw today.
Vehicular Homicide
Colorado Revised Statute § 18-3-106 outlines the actions and penalties for vehicular homicide offenses. Vehicular homicide occurs when a person’s death is the result of the reckless operation of a motor vehicle or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This criminal charge acknowledges the lethal consequences of irresponsible driving behaviors, such as excessive speeding, ignoring traffic rules, or driving while impaired. Convictions for vehicular homicide can lead to significant prison sentences and fines.
When facing homicide charges, it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Don’t hesitate to contact the Colorado vehicular homicide attorneys at WeedenLaw if you’ve been accused of this criminal offense.
Manslaughter
Manslaughter is outlined under Colorado Revised Statute § 18-3-104, which defines the criminal offense as when a person recklessly causes the death of another individual. Manslaughter is different from more severe homicide charges like first-degree or second-degree murder since the offender lacks the intent to kill.
The statute recognizes that while the actions leading to death were reckless, they were not necessarily carried out with a deliberate or premeditated intention to cause harm or death. This can include situations where the individual acts in a moment of passion or under circumstances that would provoke a reasonable person to behave irrationally.
What are the Penalties for Murder in Colorado?
The penalties for murder in Colorado reflect the seriousness of the criminal offense. The charges one can face vary based on the offender’s state of mind. So, murders that were committed with intent will result in harsher sentences compared to those without.
- First-Degree Murder: Life imprisonment
- Second-Degree Murder: 16 to 48 years in prison
- Vehicular Homicide: 2 to 14 years in prison
- Manslaughter: 2 to 6 years in prison
- Criminally Negligent Homicide: 1 to 3 years in prison
If you’ve been accused of one of the above crimes, an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney can help. Defense strategies can be used depending on the offense and the circumstances surrounding the crime. At WeedenLaw, your Denver criminal defense attorney will evaluate your case and provide the strongest defense possible to achieve the best outcome.
Other Potential Consequences
Individuals convicted of murder in Colorado may face various other consequences that profoundly impact their lives. The victim’s family often files civil suits to recover damages for their loss.
Another consequence following a murder conviction involves future job opportunities and prospects, as many businesses are hesitant to hire individuals with such a serious offense on their record. Following a prison sentence for murder, the offender may also encounter obstacles when looking for housing, as landlords and housing agencies run background checks as part of the application process. Many applications for housing include the automatic denial of a person with a felony conviction or violent crime on their record. Other consequences following a murder conviction include the right to own a handgun and vote.
Colorado Statute of Limitations for Homicide Charges
Murder is one of several criminal offenses in Colorado that does not have a statute of limitations. What this means for offenders and victims is that no matter when the alleged crime occurred, charges can still be filed regardless of how long ago it happened. However, vehicular homicide does have a criminal statute of limitations of five years, starting when the crime was committed or was discovered.
How Our Denver Criminal Defense Law Firm Can Help
When facing criminal allegations as serious as murder, hiring a criminal defense attorney is crucial due to the complexity and severity of the case. When you choose our law office, WeedenLaw, you can trust that you’re getting an attorney who deeply understands the Colorado legal system, including knowledge of relevant laws, court procedures, and evidentiary rules. They can effectively analyze the prosecution’s case, identify weaknesses, and develop a strong defense strategy.
A Denver criminal defense lawyer like Jeff Weeden can negotiate with prosecutors, potentially reducing charges or penalties. They also protect your rights, advocate on your behalf, and provide guidance during interrogations and court appearances.
Providing Comprehensive Criminal Law Services Throughout the Denver Metro Area
At WeedenLaw, our criminal law services are meticulously tailored to meet the unique challenges of each one of our clients. Our experienced team of criminal defense attorneys excels in handling an array of cases, ranging from minor offenses to serious felonies, including homicide, assault, drug offenses, DUIs, white-collar crimes, and more.
Our law firm offers end-to-end legal assistance, beginning with a detailed initial consultation through rigorous investigation, evidence analysis, and representation in court. Our approach is deeply client-centric, ensuring personalized strategies are developed for each case. We specialize in identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, negotiating plea bargains, and relentlessly advocating for our client’s rights.
Our services extend beyond legal representation, as we provide crucial guidance on managing the wider implications of criminal charges, helping clients navigate the complexities of the legal process with clarity, confidence, and support. At WeedenLaw, we don’t just represent you in court; we stand with you at every step of your legal journey.
Call an Experienced Colorado Criminal Defense Lawyer at WeedenLaw Right Away
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in Colorado, acting quickly and obtaining experienced legal representation is imperative. The criminal defense attorneys at WeedenLaw are ready to provide you with the robust legal support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
At WeedenLaw, you’ll find not just a legal defender but a strategic ally equipped to navigate the complexities of your criminal case and dedicated to seeking the most favorable outcome. Don’t wait to schedule a free consultation. Contact the Colorado criminal defense lawyers at WeedenLaw by calling (720) 307-4330 today.
