Menacing occurs in Lakewood, Colorado when a person attempts or uses a threat or action to place someone else in fear of serious injury. This crime can often come along with Assault charges or the sentence enhancer, Domestic Violence. The charge of Menacing can escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony depending on specific details. Even saying something aggressive in a heated moment can lead to a damaging criminal charge. Contacting an experienced menacing lawyer is particularly critical for those accused of this serious offense.
What is Menacing in Adams County, CO?
C.R.S. 18-3-206 defines the behaviors of Menacing in Adams County, CO. Some commits this offense when they:
- by the use of threat or physical action,
- place or attempt to place someone else,
- in fear of imminent serious bodily injury
Serious bodily injury refers to:
- substantial risk of death, serious permanent disfigurement, protracted loss or impairment of the function of any part or organ of the body
- breaks, fractures, or 2nd or 3rd degree burns
Threatening to harm someone doesn’t necessarily mean a person is threatening serious bodily injury. However, the mere mention of harming another person can be misunderstood by police and a jury. This is why threats that appear to be innocent can later turn into costly criminal charges.
Punishment for menacing in Lakewood, CO
If a deadly weapon was absent in the criminal threat of menacing, misdemeanor penalties apply. Potential consequences include up to 12 months in county jail and also fines of up to $1,000. However, if either a deadly weapon or something that resembles a deadly weapon was present, a class 5 felony can apply. Possible sentencing can include 1 – 3 years in prison, as well as fines of up to $100,000.
Lakewood Menacing Lawyer
Each specific menacing case contains facts that are especially critical in forming quality defense. Contacting our office for a free consultation is the best place to start. In some cases a defendant’s statements aren’t threats or were taken out of context. Other instances might occur where there wasn’t actually a weapon present, or if there was, it wasn’t deadly. Nonetheless, it is critical to obtain expert representation early on in all menacing cases to preserve crucial evidence that can significantly impact the final outcome. We also advise that you not speak with police or provide any statements to investigators. They are known to twist and manipulate anything you say into damaging evidence against you. Hiring a skilled menacing lawyer capable of outlining the path to your best possible outcome can prove invaluable.
If you or someone you know is facing a menacing charge, be smart. Contact the unparalleled defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.
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