Understanding Colorado’s Three Strikes Law: Habitual Criminal Penalties
October 25, 2025
 
Drug crimes have long been a concern for societies worldwide, as they contribute to public health issues, social problems, and criminal activity. These offenses encompass illegal activities related to possessing, distributing, and manufacturing controlled substances. To address the varying degrees of severity among drug offenses, they are classified into two main categories: felonies and misdemeanors.
The distinction between felonies and misdemeanors is crucial for individuals involved in drug-related activities and the legal system. The classification of a drug crime determines [...]
As an attorney, I have seen firsthand the complexities of the state’s drug laws. While Colorado is known for being one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, the state’s drug policies extend far beyond cannabis. All drugs are not created equal in Colorado, and understanding the nuances of the state’s drug laws is crucial for anyone facing drug charges.
Understanding the Five Schedules of Drugs in ColoradoIn Colorado, drugs get categorized into five different schedules, ranging from [...]
Everywhere you go, it seems like you simply can’t get away from hearing about Fentanyl. This drug has caused significant problems in the United States and Colorado, and it’s hazardous if it’s not used correctly in a medical setting which is why it has led to an increase in deaths due to overdoses in the last several years.
Why is fentanyl so dangerous? It is essential to understand more about this drug and how it gets into the drug supply. [...]
Even in states like Colorado that have decriminalized many drugs in specific amounts, drug convictions can haunt you for years.
Whenever anyone does a background check on you for a new job, housing, or even a loan, they will see convictions on your record, and you could lose opportunities long after you’ve served your debt to society. That’s why criminal record sealing exists in Colorado, but it’s essential to understand what types of convictions can be sealed and cannot.
Here [...]
In the U.S., Colorado is a state that views controlled substances a little more liberally than others. It was one of the first states to make marijuana legal, which makes it a bit of a trailblazer when it comes to modern drug laws – and they keep progressing. In 2019, voters in Denver elected to pass a referendum that decriminalized the use of psilocybin for adults over the age of 21.
Next on the ballot for Colorado voters to decide [...]
If you’re facing charges as a repeat offender in Denver, understanding Colorado’s three strikes law and habitual criminal penalties could be the difference between years in prison and your freedom. Colorado’s habitual offender statute dramatically increases prison sentences for defendants with prior felony convictions, sometimes resulting in life sentences even for non-violent crimes.
At the Law Office of Jacob Martinez, our experienced Denver habitual criminal defense lawyers represent clients facing three strikes charges and other serious felony offenses across Colorado. [...]
Social media continues to play a central role in people’s daily lives today. Whether it is sharing photos, updating statuses, or engaging in conversations, individuals leave behind a permanent online record. While these platforms may feel casual or private, prosecutors in Denver and across Colorado increasingly use social media evidence to build criminal cases. Posts, messages, images, and even tagged content can be admitted as evidence in court and potentially damage your defense.
If you are facing criminal charges in [...]
At the Law Office of Jacob Martinez, our Denver criminal defense attorneys understand that, despite legal cannabis in Colorado, marijuana DUI arrests are increasing. With over 17% of state police DUI arrests involving cannabis use, defending marijuana impairment cases demands careful legal strategy.
Colorado treats cannabis DUI as seriously as alcohol DUI, with strict legal limits and harsh penalties. We have secured numerous dismissals and not-guilty verdicts by thoroughly challenging the evidence and protecting clients’ rights. If you face marijuana [...]