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Criminal Mischief Attorney Colorado - Legal Representation

If you are looking for a criminal mischief attorney, Colorado has many options to choose from. However, not all have the level of experience you need to get the best outcome. David H. Johnson is a highly effective criminal mischief attorney Colorado residents can rely on to fight on their behalf.

What Is the Meaning of Criminal Mischief?

In Colorado, criminal mischief is defined as knowingly damaging the personal or real property of another person. This includes vandalism, breaking personal possessions, altering them, or destroying them completely. It deals only with the damage done to an item. It is also important to note, even if you own the item you can be charged with criminal mischief if the item is jointly owned with another person.

Criminal mischief charges carry a wide range of penalties that depend on the worth of the items damaged.

What Are the Penalties of Criminal Mischief in Colorado?

It’s important to know that if you are accused and in need of a criminal mischief lawyer, Colorado law classifies this type of offense as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the items involved.

Misdemeanor charges include the following:

  • Class 3 misdemeanor (items valued at less than $300): Up to 6 months jail time and a fine from $50 to $750.
  • Class 2 misdemeanor (items valued at $300 to less than $750): 3 to 12 months in jail and fines from $250 to $1,000.
  • Class 1 misdemeanor (items valued at$750 to less than $1,000): 6 to 18 months in jail, $500 to $5,000 in fines.
  • For vandalism or destruction of items worth $1,000 or more, felony charges apply. These include:
  • Class 6 felony (items valued at $1,000 to less than $5,000): 12 to 18 months in prison, $1,000 to $100,000 in fines
  • Class 5 felony (items valued at $5,000 to less than $20,000): 1 to 3 years in prison and $1,000 to $100,000 in fines
  • Class 4 felony (items valued at $20,000 to less than $100,000): 2 to 6 years in prison, $2,000 to $500,000 in fines
  • Class 3 felony (items valued at $100,000 to less than $1 million): 4 to 12 years, $3,000 to $750,000
  • Class 2 felony (items valued at$1 million and up): 8 to 24 years in prison, fines between $5,000 and $1 million

In order to fight the charges brought against you and avoid these penalties (or get them dropped altogether), you need the help of an experienced criminal mischief lawyer. Colorado law carries these hefty penalties to deter crimes. If you are charged and need help fighting these allegations, legal representation may be your best option moving forward. In case your criminal mischief charge is dismissed or you are acquitted, you may be eligible to seek expungement of the record to clear your name.

Why You Need a Criminal Mischief Attorney – Colorado Criminal Defense Law

In addition to the abovementioned penalties, there are many long-term consequences of a felony conviction. These include:

  • Lost right to own firearms;
  • Inability to serve in certain positions of trust;
  • Harder time securing employment;
  • Inability to vote while in prison;
  • Ineligibility for certain government benefits or housing.

A conviction can limit future opportunities, so it’s important to seek legal help if you are facing felony criminal mischief charges. David H. Johnson can provide the legal guidance you need when navigating your case. With past experience in prosecution and over 25 years of defending clients in numerous cases, David H. Johnson is a criminal mischief attorney Colorado residents can trust when it comes to representing their best interests. His skill in negotiation and litigation combined with genuine concern for your wellbeing will be invaluable in handling your case. To get your free consultation with a qualified criminal defense attorney, you can call 970-404-8884.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Fort Collins criminal mischief lawyer help with expunging my record?

Yes, Our criminal mischief lawyer in Fort Collins may assist with the process of expunging your record, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Expungement generally refers to the legal process that allows for the removal or sealing of past criminal records, making them inaccessible to most public inquiries. However, not all crimes are eligible for expungement, and eligibility criteria vary by state and jurisdiction.
It is essential to consult directly with the lawyer to understand if your specific situation qualifies for expungement under Colorado law. A lawyer familiar with criminal mischief and Colorado's expungement laws can help assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.

Can a criminal mischief attorney assist in reducing charges in Fort Collins?

Yes, a criminal mischief attorney can help in reducing charges in Fort Collins, Colorado. These attorneys specialize in criminal mischief cases and have knowledge of the local legal system and laws. They can negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges, minimize penalties, or even dismiss the case, depending on the specific circumstances. An attorney with experience in criminal mischief cases will be familiar with relevant statutes and can provide strategic advice to help secure the best possible outcome.

What should I do if accused of criminal mischief in Fort Collins?

If accused of criminal mischief in Fort Collins, remain calm and avoid making any statements that could be used against you. Contact us for a specialized criminal defense attorney to guide you through the legal process and build a strong defense. We will gather relevant evidences, Just follow your attorney's advice, and stay informed about your case to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Additional Information in Fort Collins, Colorado

  • Colorado General Assembly - Colorado Revised Statutes 2023: This document is the 2023 edition of Title 18 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, which covers criminal code in the state. It details various criminal offenses and their corresponding legal definitions, penalties, and procedural guidelines. Criminal mischief is specifically addressed in this document as it outlines the legal framework for prosecuting acts that involve damaging property, classifying such offenses based on the extent of the damage and other relevant factors.
  • Fort Collins Police Services - Crime Prevention: Resource for crime prevention, offering tips and programs to help the community reduce criminal activities. It focuses on educating the public about preventing various crimes through community involvement and strategic measures. It helps about criminal mischief to prevent and report vandalism and property damage.
  • Fort Collins Municipal Code - Chapter 23: Public Property: This section contains the city's regulations and ordinances regarding public property usage, including definitions, rules, and penalties for offenses like criminal mischief. By referring to the code, individuals can understand the local laws that define criminal mischief, outline what actions constitute such an offense, and detail the legal repercussions one might face for violating these laws.
Helping clients in FORT COLLINS and throughout Northern Colorado.
Address:
419 Canyon Avenue #226
Fort Collins, CO 80521
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