If you have been charged with felony menacing in Colorado Springs, I understand the fear and confusion you are feeling right now. As a former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of experience, I have seen firsthand how these charges can turn someone’s life upside down. At my firm, Christian A. Schwaner, P.C., I am committed to providing the aggressive, knowledgeable defense you need during this challenging time.
In this post, I will walk you through what felony menacing means under Colorado law, the potential penalties you face, and the critical steps you should take to protect your rights and your future.
Understanding Felony Menacing Charges in Colorado
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-3-206, menacing occurs when a person knowingly places or attempts to place another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. This can happen through threats, physical actions, or any conduct that would cause a reasonable person to feel threatened.
What elevates a simple menacing charge to a felony is the involvement of a deadly weapon—or even the representation of one. Under Colorado law, felony menacing with a deadly weapon is classified as a Class 5 felony, regardless of whether the weapon was actually visible or used. Common scenarios that lead to felony menacing charges in Colorado Springs include:
- Verbal threats while holding or gesturing toward a weapon
- Brandishing a firearm, knife, or other object capable of causing serious harm
- Implying you have a weapon during a confrontation, such as reaching toward your waistband
- Using everyday objects—like baseball bats or tools—in a threatening manner
If you are facing felony menacing charges in Colorado Springs, it is essential to understand that prosecutors take these cases very seriously, and having an experienced defense attorney on your side can be the difference between a conviction and a favorable outcome.
Penalties for Felony Menacing in Colorado Springs
The Colorado felony menacing penalties are severe and life-altering. As a Class 5 felony, a conviction could result in:
- 1 to 3 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections
- Fines of up to $100,000
- A mandatory 2-year period of parole following any prison sentence
- A permanent felony conviction on your criminal record
Beyond the legal penalties, a felony menacing conviction can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, and maintain custody of your children. If the charge also involves domestic violence—which is common in felony menacing cases—additional consequences apply, including a mandatory protection order and the loss of your right to possess firearms under both state and federal law.
I encourage anyone facing these charges to contact me at my office for a free consultation. Do not wait to get the legal guidance you need.
How a Felony Menacing Defense Attorney in Colorado Springs Can Help
As a felony menacing defense attorney in Colorado Springs, I bring a unique perspective to every case. My years as a prosecutor taught me exactly how the other side builds their arguments—and more importantly, where the weaknesses lie. Every felony menacing case is different, but some of the most effective defense strategies I employ include:
- Challenging the element of fear — The prosecution must prove that the alleged victim was placed in fear of “imminent serious bodily injury.” If the circumstances do not support that level of fear, the charge may not hold up in court.
- Questioning the deadly weapon classification — Not every object constitutes a “deadly weapon” under Colorado law. I carefully examine the facts to determine whether the weapon allegation is supported by the evidence.
- Self-defense — In many cases, my clients were acting in self-defense or defense of others. Colorado law recognizes the right to protect yourself, and this can be a powerful defense against menacing charges.
- Lack of intent — Menacing requires that the accused acted “knowingly.” If the alleged threatening behavior was unintentional or misinterpreted, this is a viable defense strategy.
Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the Colorado Springs court system can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Steps to Take After Being Charged with Felony Menacing
If you have been arrested or charged with felony menacing, here is what I recommend based on over two decades of defending clients in Colorado Springs:
- Exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say to law enforcement can and will be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions until you have spoken with an attorney.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. The sooner you have legal representation, the sooner we can begin building your defense and protecting your rights.
- Do not contact the alleged victim. If a protection order has been issued, any contact—even well-intentioned—can result in additional criminal charges.
- Document everything you remember. Write down the details of what happened while they are fresh in your mind. This information can be critical to your defense.
- Attend all court dates. Failing to appear in court can result in a warrant for your arrest and additional penalties.
I have helped countless clients in Colorado Springs navigate these exact situations, and I am ready to help you too.
Why Choose Christian A. Schwaner, P.C. for Your Felony Menacing Defense
When your freedom is on the line, you need an attorney who will fight for you—not just process your paperwork. At Christian A. Schwaner, P.C., I take a hands-on approach to every case. My background as a former prosecutor means I know how the prosecution thinks, what evidence they prioritize, and where their case may be vulnerable.
- Over 20 years of criminal defense experience in Colorado Springs
- A proven track record of successfully defending clients against serious felony charges
- Personalized attention—I handle your case directly, not a paralegal
- Convenient downtown Colorado Springs location
- Free initial consultations
If you or a loved one is facing felony menacing charges in Colorado Springs, do not face the criminal justice system alone. Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Related Resources
For more information on criminal defense in Colorado Springs, explore these additional resources from my blog:
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