Understanding Colorado’s Hate Crime Enhancement Laws and Penalties
January 29, 2026
In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of our lives. From connecting with friends and family to sharing personal experiences, social media has transformed how we communicate. However, the ubiquity of these platforms has also raised questions about their role in legal matters, including domestic violence cases. Social media can have a significant impact on the outcome of such cases. In this blog, we will explore the role that social media plays in domestic violence [...]
The coronavirus has shaken the world up in many ways aside from the virus itself. Millions of people are finding themselves out of work and businesses are being forced to close doors en masse. Lots of people are also practicing social distancing by staying home.
Because of these things, one issue that cities like Denver are contending with? The potential for a massive spike in domestic violence.
Experts Concerned for Potential Spike in CO Domestic Violence CallsThe extensive quarantine [...]
We have encountered a lot of confusion surrounding domestic violence among clients in Colorado. So we decided to tackle some of the most common questions we encounter:
The following information should answer these and others you [...]
Substance abuse and domestic violence are both unfortunate realties of modern society. Both are common, affecting thousands of Coloradans annually.
In fact, many times these two problems occur together, as both domestic violence victims and perpetrators are often substance abusers.
So, what is the link between the two things?
The short answer is that it’s complicated. However, research has shown that substance abusers are more likely to become victims or perpetrators of domestic violence. Moreover, these two problems have many [...]
Hate crime enhancements allow Colorado prosecutors to increase criminal penalties. A misdemeanor assault could become a felony with years in prison if bias motivation is proven. These enhancements don’t require explicit hatred; prosecutors just need to show that prejudice based on protected characteristics played a role.
At the Law Office of Jacob Martinez, our Denver criminal defense attorneys defend clients statewide, challenging subjective or ambiguous evidence. Many alleged “proofs” of bias have reasonable alternative explanations.
What Are Colorado Hate Crime[...]In criminal cases across Denver, CO, DNA evidence is presented as powerful proof linking a defendant to a crime scene, victim, or weapon. While DNA analysis can be highly reliable when performed correctly, it is not infallible. Criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of Jacob Martinez frequently challenge DNA evidence on multiple grounds to create reasonable doubt or even exclude it entirely from trial. This is especially relevant in Denver, where many cases rely on testing from the Colorado [...]
Police body camera footage has become one of the most influential types of evidence in Colorado criminal cases. What officers’ records can support their account or expose inconsistencies that benefit your defense. Understanding how to obtain and use this footage is essential when facing charges.
At the Law Office of Jacob Martinez, our Denver criminal defense attorney team pursues body camera footage in every case where it exists. We know how to analyze video evidence, identify improper police conduct, and [...]