Colorado has some of the more heavily regulated firearms laws in the region, and Larimer County prosecutors take weapons charges seriously. Whether you’re facing a case out of Fort Collins, Loveland, or Estes Park, here’s an overview of the charges that commonly arise.
Fort Collins Lawyer for Prohibited Possession of Firearms / Weapons
Not everyone in Colorado is legally allowed to own or possess a firearm. State and federal law bar possession by individuals with certain felony convictions, those subject to specific domestic violence restraining orders, individuals adjudicated as a “mental defective” or committed to a mental institution, and people unlawfully present in the United States, among others. Being caught in possession of a firearm while falling into one of these prohibited categories can lead to serious felony charges.
Illegal Weapons and Prohibited Use Charges in Loveland
Colorado law also criminalizes possession of specific weapon types outright, including machine guns not properly registered under federal law, short-barreled shotguns and rifles, silencers, and ballistic knives. Separately, the Prohibited Use of Weapons statute criminalizes conduct like recklessly discharging a firearm, possessing a firearm while intoxicated, and unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon without a permit.
Menacing and Assault Involving a Firearm: A Fort Collins Defense Attorney Explains
Pointing a firearm at another person, even an unloaded one, can result in a felony Menacing charge if it places someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. When a firearm is used in an Assault, the presence of the weapon can elevate the charge significantly compared to an unarmed offense.
Charged with a Firearm Crime in Fort Collins, Loveland, or Estes Park? Call O’Malley Law Office!
Weapons charges in Larimer County can carry consequences ranging from misdemeanor penalties to lengthy felony prison sentences, and they often intersect with other charges like Domestic Violence or Assault. Understanding exactly which statute applies to your situation is the first step in facing these charges head-on.
If you’ve been charged with a firearm crime, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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