Gun and Weapons Charges Lawyer in Denver, Colorado

A gun and weapons charges lawyer in Denver, Colorado represents individuals accused of firearm or weapons-related offenses, applying Colorado criminal law to defend their rights, challenge evidence, and pursue reduced charges or dismissals.

The potential consequences of weapons-related criminal charges in Colorado include prison time and fines that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. Because weapons charges often accompany other criminal charges, the accused may face both state and federal crimes, and penalties may be compounded.

If you or a loved one was arrested for a weapons-related charge in Colorado, the criminal defense lawyers at Wolf Law are ready to hear your story. Please call us today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online for your free consultation.

Colorado Weapons and Firearms Laws

A young man in a hoodie holding — Weapons charges are not limited to guns. In Colorado, possessing an illegal weapon like a switchblade carries criminal charges.

Weapons charges are not limited to firearms alone. In fact, nearly any object can constitute a weapon in the context of criminal charges if that object is linked to other criminal charges, such as assault.

Colorado’s firearms and weapons statutes define two broad weapons categories:

Dangerous weapons: In Colorado, it is a felony to possess a “dangerous weapon,” which includes firearms with silencers, machine guns, short shotguns, short rifles and ballistic knives (knives in which the blades are forcefully projected from the handle via a spring-loaded device or explosive charge).
Illegal weapons: In Colorado, it is a misdemeanor to knowingly possess an “illegal weapon,” which includes blackjacks, gas guns, switchblade knives or metallic knuckles.

Intent is often an important factor in weapons-related charges. For example, an otherwise harmless object may be considered a “deadly weapon” if the object was used with the intent to cause harm.

Colorado Gun Charges

horizontal photograph of a sign showing a no gun zone area — Colorado recognizes concealed handgun permits, but it is still illegal to possess firearms in certain premises like schools and government buildings.

The right to own firearms comes with qualifications, and even valid gun owners can face criminal charges based on where the firearms are possessed or how they are used. Common firearms charges in Colorado include but are not limited to:

Prohibited use of a firearm: This includes using a gun while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, or recklessly firing a gun.
Defacing a firearm or possession of a defaced firearm: It is illegal to remove or alter a firearm’s serial number, or to possess a firearm whose serial number has been defaced.
Unlawful purchase of a firearm: Federal law prohibits the purchase and possession of firearms by certain people, including convicted felons. Those who purchase a firearm illegally or those who purchase a firearm for another who is not legally allowed to own a gun could face felony charges.
Unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon: Although Colorado recognizes concealed handgun permits, firearms are not permitted in certain premises, including schools and government buildings.
Possession of a weapon by a previous offender (POWPO): It is unlawful for a convicted felon to own, possess or carry a firearm. It is also unlawful for an adjudicated minor who was convicted of an offense that would have been a felony if committed by an adult to own, possess or carry a firearm.
Illegal discharge of a firearm: If a person knowingly or recklessly discharges a firearm into any dwelling or occupied structure he or she could face felony charges.

Firearms charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, and their corresponding penalties can be severe, especially if the individual has a criminal record or additional corresponding criminal charges are filed.

Penalties for Weapons-Related Criminal Charges

A firearm or other weapon change can have far-reaching consequences including incarceration and/or costly fines. A firearm or weapon charge can also limit a person’s right to own a gun in the future, job eligibility, and even housing opportunities.

Following is a list of some common firearms and weapons charges, as well as their potential punishments:

Possession of a dangerous weapon: Class 5 felony punishable by one to three years in prison and/or a fine up to $100,000
Possession of an illegal weapon: Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by six to 18 months in prison and/or a fine up to $5,000
Possession of a defaced firearm: Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by six to 18 months in prison and/or a fine up to $5,000
Unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon: Class 2 misdemeanor punishable by up to one year of jail time and/or a fine up to $1,000
Possession of a weapon by a previous offender (POWPO): Class 6 felony punishable by one year to 18 months in prison and/or a fine up to $100,000
Unlawful purchase of a firearm: Class 4 felony punishable by two to six years in prison and/or a fine up to $500,000
Possession of a handgun by a juvenile: Class 2 misdemeanor punishable by three to 12 months in jail

Penalties typically increase for repeat offenders, crimes of violence, or when aggravating circumstances are present.

Gun Crimes in Colorado

A law book with a gavel - Gun law — Weapons charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, and their penalties can be severe, especially if you have a criminal record or other charges are filed.

There were nearly 6,000 violent crimes involving firearms in Colorado in 2017, and more than 5,000 violent crimes involving dangerous weapons. The same year, more than 360,000 guns were purchased in Colorado.

According to a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives report, 4,905 firearms were traced and recovered in Colorado in 2017. Not all of the firearms traced were used in crimes, but the top categories reported for firearm traces were related to possession charges and weapon offenses.

Who Is Prohibited From Owning Firearms in Colorado

In Colorado, certain individuals are prohibited from firearm possession due to state and federal laws. Violating these restrictions can lead to severe criminal penalties, including federal weapon offenses. Understanding these limitations is critical to avoid illegal possession charges.

Individuals prohibited from owning or possessing firearms in Colorado include:

Convicted felons: Those convicted of a felony offense are barred from possessing firearms. This includes individuals with felony convictions in other states.
Individuals convicted of domestic violence: Those with a domestic violence-related misdemeanor conviction cannot legally possess firearms under federal law.
Persons subject to restraining orders: Individuals subject to active protection or restraining orders that specifically prohibit firearm possession are restricted from owning guns.
Adjudicated juvenile offenders: Minors convicted of offenses that would have been felonies if committed by an adult are prohibited from firearm possession.
Unlawful drug users: Individuals who are unlawful users of controlled substances, including marijuana (despite its legality in Colorado), are restricted from possessing firearms under federal law.
Those found mentally incompetent: Persons who have been deemed mentally unfit by a court or involuntarily committed to a mental health institution are banned from firearm possession.
Undocumented immigrants: Non-U.S. citizens who are unlawfully in the country cannot legally own or possess firearms.
Individuals convicted of firearms trafficking: Those involved in the illegal sale, distribution, or transport of firearms face strict bans on legal firearm ownership.

Anyone caught violating these restrictions may face felony weapon charges and significant legal consequences. If you are unsure about your eligibility to own a firearm, consulting a qualified weapon charges lawyer can provide clarity and legal guidance.

Our Gun and Weapon Charges Defense Strategies

Facing weapons crimes in Colorado can be overwhelming, but a strong legal defense can help mitigate or dismiss charges. A skilled defense attorney can analyze the specifics of your case and develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances. Some common defense approaches include:

Lack of Knowledge or Intent

In some cases, the prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly possessed a firearm illegally. If you were unaware of the firearm’s presence or that its possession was unlawful, your attorney may argue a lack of intent.

Illegal Search and Seizure

Under the Fourth Amendment, law enforcement must follow legal procedures when searching for and seizing firearms. If a firearm was discovered through an illegal search or improper police conduct, your lawyer may file a motion to suppress the evidence, potentially leading to case dismissal.

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

If a firearm was used in a situation of self-defense or defense of another person, this may be a valid legal defense. Colorado recognizes the right to self-defense, and demonstrating that the weapon was used lawfully can be key in reducing or dismissing charges.

Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case

Weapon charges often require strong evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your lawyer may challenge witness credibility, question forensic evidence, or highlight inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case to weaken the charges against you.

Improper Firearm Classification

Some weapon charges rely on the classification of a firearm as an illegal or dangerous weapon. If law enforcement misclassified the firearm in question, your lawyer can argue that the charge does not apply.

Violation of Gun Ownership Rights

In cases where law-abiding citizens are charged due to unclear or overly broad weapon laws, a defense attorney may argue for dismissal on the grounds of Second Amendment rights.

If you are facing state or federal weapon offenses, securing an experienced weapon charges lawyer is essential. The attorneys at Wolf Law have successfully defended individuals against weapons crimes and can help you navigate the legal system while protecting your rights. Contact us today at 720-479-8574 for a free consultation.

Colorado Weapons Charges Attorneys

If you’re facing weapons-related charges in Colorado, you need an attorney who understands the complex state and federal regulations that impact your case.

The Denver criminal defense lawyers at Wolf Law have extensive experience handling a broad range of criminal offenses, including those involving weapons. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate, aggressive representation for those charged with or under investigation for a crime.

Please call Wolf Law today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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I was facing felony assault charges for an altercation I got into and needed an attorney. It was self defense but the DA was not seeing it that way. After calling around I found Wolf law and spoke with Colleen Kelley on the phone about my case. From the get go she was very professional and I could tell that she truly cares for her clients and their rights and wants to get the best possible outcome. So many attorneys out there just go through the motions and take peoples money. Colleen is not one of them! She knows the law and knows your rights. She’s very experienced in these types of cases and it showed! We took this case all the way to trial and Colleen was nothing short of exceptional in court! She left no stone unturned and was 110% prepared when my trial date came around. She also did an exceptional job preparing me for trial. I felt very confident going into trial because Colleen was in my corner. Communication was great throughout the whole process. Needless to say we got the result we were looking for and I was found not guilty on all counts. I will forever be grateful to Colleen for her services and I am thankful that I chose her to represent me. If you’re looking for a top notch attorney, pick up the phone and call Colleen!

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After finding myself wrongfully accused of a DUI charge, Mr. Wolf fought to show the DA that I was not guilty and ultimately got the charge dismissed. Mr. Wolf’s knowledge, professionalism, and effectiveness made me feel comfortable and confident throughout my case. He was always more than willing to answer any questions I had promptly and thoroughly. Although this was an unfortunate situation, I couldn’t have asked for better representation. I would highly recommend Mr. Wolf!

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I was referred to Jeff by one of my friends who was recently represented by Wolf Law in his DUI case; I will be forever grateful for that recommendation. Jeff made this extremely stressful process feel much more manageable from start to finish. He was always responsive and highly communicative, even throughout my barrage of anxiety driven questioning. He was a maestro in the courtroom and was able to get me the absolute minimum penalties. He even got certain areas of my very unique case dismissed – saving me thousands of dollars in the process. While I hope I never have to, I will surely be recommending Wolf Law as DUI representation to any of my friends and family in the future.

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Jeffrey Wolf is the best lawyer you could ever hire. He most definitely went way above and beyond the call of duty for me and my case. I’m sure that some of you have hired other lawyers in the past and it seemed like they drug their heels, and wouldn’t return calls, which made you feel that they didn’t care about you.

As far as I’m concerned that will never happen to you if you hire Jeffrey Wolf. He treated me like I was either his best friend or a member of his family, that’s how I felt dealing with him. I honestly looked forward to his calls. He seems like a super cool/good guy. If I lived in Colorado I would be honored to even hang out sometime, maybe shoot some pool, go bowling, ect just have fun. But the most important thing as far as business goes he got an amazing result for me in the case he represented me for. If yall don’t hire Jeffrey as your attorney then you’re making a HUGE mistake that you will probably regret the rest of your life. Again tyvvvvvvvm Jeffrey Wolf for taking care of me. You are the best.

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I hired Mr. Wolf to represent me in my efforts to obtain a permanent civil protection order against the person who committed a crime against me. This person is currently incarcerated for the crime but is being considered for parole. Due to Mr. Wolf’s criminal law background, and his outstanding attorney ratings, I believed him to be the best legal professional to successfully represent my safety and security concerns in court. I was not wrong!!

Mr. Wolf expertly and succinctly prepared the protection order paperwork on my behalf, prepared me for my court appearance in a direct and as complete a manner as possible, and successfully represented me in court. He also expressed sincere kindness towards me from the day I hired him to the conclusion of my case. Another attorney without a criminal law background may have been able to have successfully obtained a permanent civil protection order on my behalf; however, I was unwilling to take that chance given the criminal background of my case. I will be forever grateful to Mr. Wolf for his successful representation of me, and for making my safety and security one of his top priorities.

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Wolf Law Firm, LLC was not recommend to me by anyone, but as it turned out, was the best choice I could have made!

While searching for a lawyer for my two cases, a DUI and a trespassing felony, an understatement to say how scared I was! Wolf Law Firm caught my eye and, truthfully, it was because their firm provided a free consultation, which is invaluable in and of itself. Colleen Kelley is the attorney that picked-up the phone that day. After talking with her, I made the choice to hire her as my attorney.

We got off to a rocky start, mainly because of my inability to realize just how severe my situation was. Then, one day, Colleen just laid it on the line for me, my obvious unwillingness to face what was happening and the fact I wasn’t facing my drinking issues. It was a conversation that she was bold enough to have with me. Thanking her a million times over isn’t enough for the fortitude she had that day, not only as my attorney, but as a person genuinely concerned.

OUR outcome was more than phenomenal thanks to her diligence! I am, and will always remain, emotionally indebted to Colleen for her courage, kindness and overall, being an awesome attorney.

The day I came across Wolf Law Firm was the day, as it turned out, my life has a new beginning.

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I contacted Wolf Law to represent and guide me through legal troubles caused by an unfortunate night of events. I was put in contact with Ms Monahan who was very thorough in explaining the process and was able to file a last minute overseas trip and get court approval for several out of state work trips while the case was still pending. This allowed me to maintain my job responsibilities without awkward conversations or interruptions.

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Mr. Wolf was able to completely quash my 30 year old warrant and have the case fully dismissed within 3 weeks. He has taken such a burden off my shoulders where I can start to live my life like a free woman instead of a woman running from the law that I took care of 30 years ago but the paperwork somehow didn’t get into the correct hands. He truly is a very kind man who takes your case and gets it done fast. Thank you Mr. Wolf, you changed not only my life but my entire family’s lives

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