If you are here right now, you might be feeling scared, unsure, or even angry about your situation. Facing a violent crime charge in Colorado is a very serious matter, and it can leave you feeling like your world is upside down. You may be wondering how this happened and what you can do to protect yourself and your future. At our law firm, we understand these feelings. We know how heavy this moment can be, and we are here to help guide you through it.
One of the questions many people ask when charged with a violent crime is whether they can say they acted in self-defense. Self-defense is a real and valid legal defense in Colorado, but it is not always easy to prove. Understanding how the law sees self-defense and how it may apply to your case is an important step toward building a strong defense. Let’s break it down together in a way that is clear and simple to understand.
What Self-Defense Means in Colorado
In Colorado, the law says that a person can use force to protect themselves if they believe they are in danger of being hurt or killed. The law looks at whether the person believed they were in real danger and whether the amount of force they used was reasonable. This means that if someone attacked you or threatened you, and you had no choice but to protect yourself, the law may support your decision to fight back.
But not every situation counts as self-defense. For example, you cannot start a fight and then claim self-defense if the other person fights back. You also cannot use more force than needed. If someone shoves you and you respond with deadly force, the law may not protect that action. This is why every detail in your case matters. Where it happened, what you did, what the other person did, and what others saw all come into play.
When Self-Defense Can Be Used in Violent Crime Cases
Violent crime charges can include things like assault, battery, domestic violence, and even homicide. These are crimes where one person hurts or tries to hurt another person. In these cases, self-defense can be used if there is enough evidence to show that you were not the aggressor and that you were trying to protect yourself or someone else.
For example, if someone broke into your home and you fought back to protect your family, the law may say that you had the right to defend yourself. Colorado even has what is often called the “Make My Day” law, which allows people to use force in their own homes under certain conditions. But again, the law is strict about what counts as reasonable force.
Sometimes, self-defense can also apply if you were defending another person. This is called defense of others. If someone else was in danger and you stepped in to help, the same rules apply. You have to believe that the other person was in danger and that you used the right amount of force to stop the threat.
How the Court Looks at Self-Defense
When a court in Colorado looks at a self-defense claim, it considers what a reasonable person would have done in the same situation. The court looks at what you knew at the time of the event, not what you found out later. The court also wants to know if your actions were based on fear of serious harm or death.
The judge or jury may ask questions like, did you try to run away or avoid the fight? Did the other person have a weapon? Were there witnesses? Were you in a place where you had a right to be? Did you use a weapon or just your hands? All of these details help paint the picture of what really happened.
If the court believes your story fits the legal meaning of self-defense, it can change everything in your case. You might be found not guilty or the charges might even be dropped before trial.
What Happens If the Other Person Was Also Hurt
In many self-defense cases, the other person may have been hurt or even killed. That is why the law takes these cases so seriously. If you are claiming self-defense, the court will want to see evidence that you were trying to stop the threat and not just acting out of anger or revenge. Your own words and actions after the event can also play a big role in how the case is decided.
This is why it is so important to speak with a lawyer before talking to police or anyone else about what happened. Saying the wrong thing, even if it seems harmless, can be used against you later. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your case.
Why Having a Legal Team Matters
Violent crime cases can be complex. They can involve many people, medical records, videos, and police reports. Prosecutors will work hard to prove their side, and they may not believe your story at first. That is where your defense team comes in. A strong legal team can look at all the evidence, talk to witnesses, and help you build your case.
They can also bring in professionals who understand self-defense laws and how people act in high-stress situations. This can help explain your actions to the court in a clear and powerful way. It can make the difference between a guilty verdict and a second chance.
What to Do If You Are Facing Charges Right Now
If you have been arrested or are being investigated for a violent crime and you believe you acted in self-defense, do not wait to get help. Every hour counts. Memories fade, evidence can be lost, and the legal process moves quickly. Talking to a legal team right away can protect your rights and help you understand your options.
It is normal to feel overwhelmed, especially if this is your first time dealing with the criminal justice system. But you do not have to face it alone. A good defense starts with a strong understanding of your rights and a clear plan of action.
We Are Ready to Stand by Your Side
At Hebets & McCallin P.C., we have helped many people in Colorado fight violent crime charges by using self-defense laws the right way. We know how to look at every piece of the case, from the police report to the 911 call, and we know how to show the court what really happened. If you are facing charges and believe you acted in self-defense, we are ready to listen, help you understand your options, and build the defense you need.
Let us help you protect your future. Call us today to schedule a free consultation. Your voice deserves to be heard, and your side of the story matters.