Understanding Colorado’s Stand Your Ground Laws in Self-Defense Claims
August 26, 2025
If you’ve received a menacing charge in Colorado, you probably have questions. Even if you think the charges against you are unfounded or the result of a simple misunderstanding, it’s vital to have all your questions answered – especially if the charge includes accusations of domestic violence.
A conviction for menacing with a domestic violence enhancement can have an enormous negative impact on your life. Not only can it lead to incarceration and fines, but it can also impact where [...]
It’s unfortunate that accusations of crimes involving domestic violence are common in the state of Colorado. Even when these accusations get made in the heat of the moment, they can still result in legal proceedings that can put the accused in legal jeopardy.
In Colorado, the situation is entirely in the hands of the police and, eventually, the prosecutor once domestic violence gets reported. That’s why, if you get accused of domestic violence, it’s vital to understand what you should [...]
Domestic violence is an issue in Colorado, as it is in many other places. However, Colorado treats domestic violence crimes differently than you may find in other places. Since the state considers it not an independent crime, it is considered an aggravator of another crime.
It’s unfortunate that you cannot discuss domestic violence in the state without discussing child abuse. The two are linked since domestic violence is an issue that impacts the whole family unit. If there is violence [...]
The laws in the state of Colorado regarding domestic violence only deal with the perpetrator of the violence, but what about the others involved?
Domestic violence is literally a family affair – and its impact, no matter the final outcome of a criminal offense, will continue to change the lives of everyone involved, including children. That’s why it’s vital to do what you can to help children through the tough and confusing times in the aftermath of a domestic violence [...]
Domestic violence is a crime that can happen to anyone at any time. It doesn’t matter what your age is, what your gender is, or even your sexual orientation – anyone can be a victim just like anyone can be a perpetrator. Even financial, social, and educational status make no difference.
For all of these reasons, it’s important to understand what domestic violence is and to understand the signs of it. it may sound strange, but people may not understand [...]
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 [...]