Understand Colorado misdemeanor charges and their consequences.
If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in Colorado, you may be tempted to brush it off as “not a big deal.” In reality, misdemeanors can carry jail time, fines, probation, and long-term consequences—especially if you plead guilty without understanding what you’re up against.
This guide breaks down the different levels of misdemeanor charges in Colorado, how they’re classified, and what penalties may apply.
If you’re already charged, you need to act quickly. The sooner you secure an experienced attorney, the sooner you will understand the misdemeanor charges against you and their penalties. Contact our office at (719)888-7888 or fill out our case evaluation request form.
What Is a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense less serious than a felony but more serious than a petty offense. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by county jail, not prison—but that distinction doesn’t make them harmless.
Colorado recognizes several misdemeanor categories, including:
- Class 1 misdemeanors
- Class 2 misdemeanors
- Drug misdemeanors (Level 1 and Level 2)
- Petty offenses
- Traffic misdemeanors
- Unclassified misdemeanors
For most non-drug offenses committed on or after March 1, 2022, Colorado uses a two-class misdemeanor system.
Class 1 Misdemeanors (Most Serious)
Potential penalties:
- Up to 364 days in county jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Or both
Common examples include:
- Third-degree assault
- Violation of a protection order
- Certain theft or criminal mischief charges
- Obstruction or resisting arrest (depending on circumstances)
Many Class 1 misdemeanors overlap with domestic violence allegations, which can trigger mandatory protection orders and enhanced consequences. If that applies, see our Domestic Violence Defense page.
Class 2 Misdemeanors
Potential penalties:
- Up to 120 days in county jail
- Up to $750 in fines
- Or both
Common examples include:
- Harassment allegations
- Disorderly conduct
- Trespass
- Lower-level property offenses
Even though these are “lower-level,” aggravating factors—such as prior convictions or injuries—can quickly escalate the case.
Drug Misdemeanors (Level 1 and Level 2)
Drug offenses are sentenced differently than standard misdemeanors.
Level 1 Drug Misdemeanor
- 6 to 18 months in county jail
- $500 to $5,000 in fines
- Often charged in repeat or aggravated drug cases
Level 2 Drug Misdemeanor
- Lower penalties than Level 1
- Used for less serious drug conduct
Drug misdemeanor cases often qualify for treatment-based alternatives, but only if handled correctly from the start. Learn more on our Drug Charges Defense page.
Petty Offenses (Often Confused with Misdemeanors)
Petty offenses are technically not misdemeanors, but they still involve criminal court.
Potential penalties:
- Up to 10 days in jail
- Up to $300 in fines
Examples include very low-level theft or municipal code violations. These cases can still appear on background checks.
Traffic Misdemeanors
Traffic misdemeanors are governed by a separate statutory scheme and can include:
- Reckless driving
- Driving under restraint
- Certain hit-and-run cases
Some traffic convictions—especially DUI or DWAI—carry mandatory penalties and cannot be sealed later. See our DUI & DWAI Defense page for details.
Unclassified Misdemeanors
Some misdemeanors don’t fit neatly into Class 1 or Class 2. Instead, the statute itself sets the penalty range. This is one reason it’s dangerous to assume you know the maximum penalty just by hearing the word “misdemeanor.”
Talk to a Colorado Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Before You Plead
At Pav Law, we regularly see people accept plea deals without realizing the long-term damage. A misdemeanor conviction can follow you for years.
📞 Call (719) 888-7888 or
👉 Request a free case evaluation today.
