Understanding Colorado’s Stand Your Ground Laws in Self-Defense Claims
August 26, 2025
Municipal court crimes can encompass a range of offenses, from traffic violations and disorderly conduct to low-level misdemeanors handled by municipal courts in Denver, Colorado. If you face charges in the municipal court system, it is important to understand the unique dynamics of these proceedings and take proactive steps to protect your rights.
Municipal court cases may seem less severe than those in higher-level courts, but they can still have significant consequences for your reputation, finances, and future opportunities. Therefore, [...]
Racial bias continues to be a significant issue within the criminal justice system, including in Colorado. The impact of racial bias on criminal cases can lead to unequal treatment, unfair outcomes, and a loss of trust in the system.
Racial Disparities in Arrest and ChargingRacial bias can manifest at various stages of the criminal justice process, starting with the initial arrest and charging decisions. Studies have shown that individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups are often disproportionately [...]
The Colorado Three-Strikes Law is a controversial legislation that has been in effect since the 1990s. The law mandates that individuals convicted of three or more felonies must receive a life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole. While the law was intended to deter repeat offenders, it has faced criticism for its harshness and potential to perpetuate systemic inequalities in the criminal justice system. In this blog post, we will discuss the impact of Colorado’s Three-Strikes Law on [...]
Cross-examination is an essential skill that every criminal defense attorney must possess. It’s a technique used in trial advocacy to discredit or weaken the opposing party’s evidence by questioning their witnesses. In Colorado, a successful cross-examination can make a significant difference in the outcome of a criminal trial. Here’s what you need to know about the art of cross-examination and how a criminal defense attorney can win your case in CO.
Preparation is KeyPreparation is crucial to successful cross-examination[...]
Being accused of a crime can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you know you are innocent. In Colorado, being falsely accused of a crime can have significant legal and personal consequences.
Stay Calm and Don’t PanicIf you’re falsely accused of a Colorado crime, the first thing to do is stay calm and avoid panicking. It is important to remain composed and avoid reacting in a way that could worsen the situation. Don’t argue with the police [...]
Self-defense is one of the most frequently raised arguments in Colorado criminal cases involving assault, homicide, or weapons charges. When a person believes their safety is threatened, the law allows them to use reasonable force to protect themselves. However, the scope of that right depends on the circumstances. While some states have explicit “stand your ground” statutes, Colorado takes a different approach, blending principles of the Castle Doctrine, the state’s “Make My Day” law, and court rulings that have shaped [...]
If a prosecutor has surveillance footage, you might feel your case is hopeless. The reality is, this powerful evidence is not foolproof. The Law Office of Jacob Martinez, a Denver, CO criminal defense attorney, focuses on challenging the reliability of surveillance footage. We investigate technical flaws like poor image quality and legal issues such as a compromised chain of custody or constitutional violations. By exposing these vulnerabilities, we can work to have the footage excluded or cast significant doubt on [...]
The legal process can be confusing and intimidating, with serious consequences for your future, your freedom, and your reputation. Knowing you have a lawyer who understands the local legal system, knows the judges and prosecutors, and is ready to act on your behalf can make a significant difference. If you are in Denver, having a Denver, CO criminal defense lawyer with this local insight is particularly important.
At the Law Office of Jacob Martinez, we are deeply familiar with Denver’s [...]