Currently, Colorado is 1 of 28 states in the U.S. with a “three strikes” law. There are actually multiple statutes that impose increased penalties on people who have been previously convicted of two or more felonies. The prison sentences under these statutes are much longer than the normal maximum sentence, so it’s vital to call a Colorado criminal defense lawyer if there is even the potential of a habitual offender charge.
The Little Habitual Offender Statute
While those who work in the Colorado criminal justice system refer to this as the “little” or “baby” habitual offender law, there’s nothing small about the consequences of a conviction. To be considered a habitual criminal under this statute, a person convicted of a felony must have been convicted of two separate felonies within the last 10 years. The latest felony is considered the “third strike” and will result in a prison sentence which is three times the maximum normally designated for that crime.
The Big Habitual Offender Statute
Unlike the little offender law, the big habitual offender statute does not require the previous felonies to occur within a specific time period. This statute will kick in for anyone who has been convicted of three separate felonies in the past, in any state. Furthermore, if they have been convicted of a misdemeanor in another state that is a felony in Colorado, it will be considered a felony in this case. The minimum prison sentence under this statute is four times the maximum for the most recent felony conviction.
The Biggest Habitual Offender Statute
If you are convicted and sentenced under the big habitual offender statute, any future violent felonies will automatically land you in prison for a life sentence, without the possibility of parole for at least 40 years. A conviction under this statute invokes some of the stiffest penalties under Colorado state law.
Call Damascus Road Law Group for Seasoned Counsel
If you’re facing charges under any of Colorado’s habitual offender statutes, it’s important to contact our experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Our firm is led by Attorney Alexander Berry, a National Top 100 Trial Lawyer with a record of successful results.
Call Damascus Road Law Group Today at (719) 354-2052 for a tough legal advocate.