Understanding Colorado’s Stand Your Ground Laws in Self-Defense Claims
August 26, 2025
If someone is accused of shoplifting at a retail location, it is not only embarrassing for the accused, but also burdensome for the owners or employees of the retail store. It can take some time for police to arrive at the scene and properly arrest a shoplifter, and the store may have other responsibilities to law enforcement after the individual has been arrested and faces time in court.
It’s even worse for retail giants like Walmart, who have become been [...]
There are many misconceptions behind shoplifting. While many people place the blame on rowdy teenagers or seasoned criminals, the more common causes are often ignored. Most shoplifters are employed, nonviolent adults who are struggling with psychological issues or conflicts.
Just like there are many different types of retail theft, there are many different reasons behind shoplifting. If you or someone you love has been charged with this offense, seek out a knowledgeable retail theft lawyer who has successfully handled cases [...]
Shoplifting. Fuel piracy. Theft by resale of a lift ticket.
These are all activities that may constitute theft crimes under Colorado law. But while theft crimes may take many different forms in Colorado, all theft crimes typically involve knowingly taking or exercising control over someone else’s assets, property, or something else of value without their permission.
Recently, Colorado law enforcement officials have had to deal with an increase in car thefts, worries over water theft by marijuana growers, and even [...]
When they find themselves face-to-face with authority figures, people will often back themselves into corners by immediately surrendering rights that they don’t realize they have. This is common in situations like drug busts or speeding citations, but it can also apply at other times as well, such as when an individual is accused of shoplifting.
Even though shoplifting may seem like a relatively minor crime, it can be more serious than many people realize, and you need someone experienced on [...]
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 [...]