If you’re facing charges in Colorado, understanding what you’re charged with is key. The state categorizes offenses into different types, each with its own legal implications and consequences. This will help you navigate the Colorado criminal justice system by breaking down the different types of charges from traffic infractions to serious felonies.
Traffic Infractions (R Cases)
Traffic infractions, also known as “R cases,” are minor violations of traffic laws. These are considered civil, not criminal and result in fines not jail time. Examples are speeding, running a red light or failing to signal. While traffic infractions are less serious, too many points on your driving record can lead to license suspension.
Traffic Cases (T Cases)
More serious than traffic infractions, “T cases” are criminal traffic violations. These can result in harsher penalties, including fines, points on your driving record and even jail time. Examples of T cases are driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving and driving without a valid license. Convictions in T cases can have long term consequences including higher insurance rates and employment consequences.
Petty Offenses
Petty offenses are minor criminal offenses that are less serious than misdemeanors. These charges result in small fines or short-term jail sentences. Examples are disorderly conduct, minor theft and possession of small amounts of marijuana. While petty offenses may seem minor, they still create a criminal record that can impact your future.
Misdemeanors (M Cases)
Misdemeanors in Colorado are classified into two levels: M1 and M2. These are more serious than petty offenses but less serious than felonies. Understanding the difference between M1 and M2 misdemeanors is key to understanding the consequences.
M1 Misdemeanors
M1 misdemeanors are the most serious type of misdemeanor charge. They can result in between 3 to12 months in jail and fines up to $5,000. Examples are third-degree assault, theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,000 and possession of a controlled substance. Extraordinary risk crimes (M1) carry up to 18 months in jail. If the victim of a third-degree assault was an on-duty police/firefighter/EMT or mental health provider, the sentence can be as high as 36 months in jail.
M2 Misdemeanors
M2 misdemeanors have less severe penalties than M1 misdemeanors. Convictions can result in up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $1,000. Examples of M2 misdemeanors are criminal mischief involving property damage between $300 and $750 and certain DUI cases.
Colorado reclassified their misdemeanors after March 1, 2022 and merged all charges formerly charged as M3s into the other classifications (M1, M2, or a PO)
Felony Cases (CR Cases)
Felonies, also known as “CR cases,” are the most serious type of criminal charges in Colorado. Felonies are classified into six levels, with F1 being the most serious and F6 the least. Felony convictions can result in long prison sentences, big fines, and a permanent criminal record that can impact your life.
F1 Felonies
F1 felonies are the most serious and have the most severe penalties. Convictions can result in life imprisonment (note: Colorado repealed the death penalty) and big fines. Examples are first-degree murder, kidnapping and treason.
F2 Felonies
F2 felonies are also very serious and can result in 8 to 24 years in prison and fines from $5,000 to $1,000,000. Examples are second-degree murder, sexual assault, and arson.
F3 Felonies
F3 felonies have penalties of 4 to 12 years in prison and fines from $3,000 to $750,000. These charges are first-degree burglary, manslaughter, and certain drug offenses.
F4 Felonies
F4 felonies can result in 2 to 6 years in prison and fines from $2,000 to $500,000. Examples are theft of property over $20,000, aggravated motor vehicle theft and vehicular assault.
F5 Felonies
F5 felonies are less serious but still serious with penalties of 1 to 3 years in prison and fines from $1,000 to $100,000. These are charges like identity theft, menacing and certain white collar crimes.
F6 Felonies
F6 felonies are the least serious type of felony charges with penalties of 6 months to 1.5 years in prison and fines from $1,000 to $100,000. Examples are possession of a controlled substance and violation of bail bond conditions, or false information to a pawnbroker.
Your Charges
You will know your type of charge by looking at the case number. Colorado case number read like this: Year-level-number. For example, the first felony of the year in that county will be charged as 24CR1. (sometimes this will be listed as 2024CR1) Misdemeanors, infractions, and traffic cases are classified in the same fashion. 24M1, 24R1, and 24T1. Civil cases will be listed as “CV” and divorce and family cases are listed as “DR” for “domestic relations”.
Being charged with a crime in Colorado can be daunting but understanding the type and severity of your charges is the first step to defending yourself. Each level of offense has different penalties and long-term consequences so you need to get legal help right away. An experienced criminal defense attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
If you or a loved one are charged with a crime in Colorado, contact us today. Knowing your charges and your rights can make all the difference in your case. Give us a call at 719-227-0022 to discuss your case and schedule a free initial consultation with a Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney.