Crime Classifications Under Colorado State Law
Criminal offenses in Colorado — and across the U.S. — are divided into three broad categories: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. These classifications help determine how serious an offense is, the type of punishment it may carry, and whether bail is involved. Understanding these distinctions is essential for anyone navigating the legal system, especially those facing arrest or court proceedings. In this post, the team at Urban bail bond company take a close look the classifications of various crimes under Colorado state law, along with their typical penalties and how bail applies.
Defining the Different Categories of Crime
Let’s examine what the different categories of crime denote.
Infractions
In a general sense infractions are defined as violations of ordinances created by cities or towns. In the vast majority of cases there is no potential for jail time nor will the bail bond agent get involved when it comes to violating an ordinance. The most common punishment is a fine although a person may also be required to perform some type of community service.
Placing trash on the curb on a non-collection day is an example of a violation of an ordinance. Others include littering, j-walking, trespassing and other such petty offenses. Most traffic violations are also considered infractions. Although exceeding the speed limit by a significant degree may qualify as a misdemeanor (driving to endanger), or a felony if someone is seriously injured or dies as a result of a person speeding.
Most infractions never end up in court. Unless, that is, they are ignored. If the fine or other sanction goes unpaid or is not performed as directed the person who was cited may be required to appear in court to face the consequences of their inaction.
Here are several common infractions under Colorado state law:
- Minor traffic violations – Examples include parking in a restricted area, failing to signal, or rolling through a stop sign. These typically result in a fine and points on a driver’s license.
- Littering – Discarding trash or debris on public property can result in a fine and community service. It’s considered a non-criminal violation but may escalate if repeated.
- J-walking – Crossing the street outside of a marked crosswalk or against a pedestrian signal. This is typically penalized with a small fine.
- Public consumption of alcohol – Drinking alcohol in prohibited public spaces such as sidewalks or parks can result in a citation and fine.
- Noise ordinance violations – Playing loud music or operating noisy equipment during quiet hours can lead to a written warning or citation.
- Failure to clear sidewalks of snow – Property owners in Colorado municipalities are required to clear snow from sidewalks within a certain timeframe. Failing to do so may result in fines or municipal penalties.
- Improper trash disposal – Leaving trash bins out too early or placing them improperly may violate local sanitation codes and result in a citation.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are typically classified as non-violent crimes that do not involve guns such as shoplifting, reckless driving and minor drug possession (first time offenders). Almost without exception misdemeanors carry the potential for less than 1 year of jail time. Misdemeanors are usually categorized into one of the following 3 classes which are determined by maximum amount of jail time.
Unlike felonies, misdemeanor sentences are typically served in county jails and may include probation or community service in lieu of full jail time. Bail is often lower, and some defendants may be released on their own recognizance depending on the circumstances.
The table below provides a side-by-side look at misdemeanor classifications under Colorado law and their typical consequences:
| Misdemeanor Class | Jail Time | Example Offenses | Typical Bail Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | 6 to 12 months | DUI (first offense), domestic violence, theft under $1,000 | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Class B | 30 days to 6 months | Disorderly conduct, minor vandalism, reckless driving | $1,000 to $2,500 |
| Class C | 5 to 30 days | Public intoxication, trespassing, petty theft | $500 to $1,000 |
SOURCE: Crime Classification Guide – State of Colorado
Misdemeanors often generate bail requirements as well with bail amounts in Colorado ranging from $500 to $5,000. If the individual accused of a misdemeanor has an otherwise clean record and the charge is not too serious it’s possible they may be released without bail and simply told to appear in court on a certain date.
Felonies
Felonies are the most serious category of crime and typically include things like domestic violence, sexual assault, aggravated assault, manslaughter, and murder, as well as crimes committed with guns. The federal government in the US defines a felony as any crime that carries the potential for 1 year or more of incarceration. Colorado also defines a felony as a crime punishable by at least a year in prison.
So if someone commits a crime in Broomfield County that’s punishable by anywhere from a year to life in prison, they can expect to be charged with a felony. They can also expect that their bail is going to be significant. Class 1 felonies are non-bailable unless ordered otherwise by a judge.
The following table breaks down felony classifications under Colorado law and their associated bail ranges:
| Felony Class | Example Offenses | Typical Bail Range |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Premeditated murder, certain capital crimes | Non-bailable (unless judge orders otherwise) |
| Class 2 | Sexual assault with violence, large-scale drug trafficking | $100,000 to $1,000,000+ |
| Class 3 | Assault with a deadly weapon, arson | $50,000 to $100,000 |
| Class 4 | Burglary, identity theft | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Class 5 | Possession of controlled substances (intent to distribute) | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| Class 6 | Low-level property crimes, minor assaults | $2,000 to $5,000 |
Drug-Related Felonies
Felony bail amounts vary widely depending on the severity of the offense, prior convictions, and the defendant’s perceived flight risk. Always consult a licensed bail agent or attorney when facing felony charges.
Drug-related felonies in Colorado are handled under a separate classification system from general felonies. These drug felonies range from DF1 (most serious) to DF4 (least serious) and are based on factors like drug type, quantity, intent to distribute, and prior convictions. Charges involving Schedule I or II substances in high quantities, or distribution to minors, carry steeper penalties.
The table below outlines the four classes of drug felonies in Colorado and how they differ in terms of severity, examples, and bail expectations:
| Drug Felony Class | Example Offenses | Typical Sentence | Estimated Bail Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| DF1 | Large-scale distribution of Schedule I or II drugs; distribution to minors | 8 to 32 years in prison | $100,000 to $500,000+ |
| DF2 | Manufacturing or possessing large quantities of controlled substances | 4 to 8 years in prison | $50,000 to $100,000 |
| DF3 | Possession with intent to distribute; repeat low-level offenses | 2 to 4 years in prison | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| DF4 | Simple possession of small quantities (second or subsequent offense) | 6 months to 1 year in prison | $2,000 to $10,000 |
Drug felonies are prosecuted aggressively in Colorado and can carry mandatory minimums or enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. Legal representation is crucial to protect your rights and explore potential plea agreements or treatment alternatives.
Bail Eligibility by Crime Classification
Felony charges are more likely to involve formal bail hearings, with bail amounts increasing significantly based on the felony class. While Class 6 felonies may carry bail as low as $2,000, serious charges such as Class 2 or Class 1 felonies can carry bail ranging from tens of thousands to well over $1 million. In rare cases, including Class 1 felonies or crimes involving extreme violence, bail may be denied altogether. Judges may also consider public safety concerns or prior court appearances when deciding whether to set bail and at what amount.
“Each Colorado county and municipality has its own bail schedule that matches each misdemeanor and felony with a standard amount of bail. Some violations such as minor traffic infractions require no bond. More serious violations, such as a class 1 felony for first-degree murder, have no bond amounts under the guidelines; therefore, the defendant would need to remain in custody pending the outcome of the case.”
— Shouse Law Group
FAQs on Crime Classifications in Colorado
Yes, certain misdemeanor charges can be upgraded to felonies if aggravating circumstances are present — such as repeat offenses or involvement of a weapon.
While not always required, having a lawyer is highly recommended, especially if jail time, fines, or a criminal record is at stake.
Most jails allow 24/7 bail processing, but some smaller county facilities may only process bonds during set hours. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Bail amounts for misdemeanors depend on the seriousness of the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, flight risk, and ties to the community.
Though uncommon, bail can be denied for certain misdemeanors if the defendant poses a threat to public safety or has a history of failing to appear in court.
If you cannot afford bail or a bail bond, you may request a bond reduction hearing or ask the court to consider releasing you on personal recognizance.
Understanding the differences between infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies is essential when it comes to navigating the Colorado criminal justice system. Each classification carries its own set of penalties, from simple fines to significant prison sentences, and the availability and cost of bail vary accordingly. Whether you’re facing a low-level misdemeanor or a serious felony charge, knowing your bail options is critical to protecting your rights and regaining your freedom quickly. At Urban Bail Bonds, we specialize in helping individuals and families throughout Broomfield and nearby communities secure fast, affordable bail. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. If you or a loved one needs help posting bail, call Urban Bail Bonds today at 303-623-0399.
Contact Urban Bail Bonds for Affordable Bail Bonds in Broomfield
Understanding the differences between infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies is essential when it comes to navigating the Colorado criminal justice system. Each classification carries its own set of penalties, from simple fines to significant prison sentences, and the availability and cost of bail vary accordingly. Whether you’re facing a low-level misdemeanor or a serious felony charge, knowing your bail options is critical to protecting your rights and regaining your freedom quickly.
At Urban Bail Bonds, we specialize in helping individuals and families throughout Broomfield and nearby communities secure fast, affordable bail. Our licensed and compassionate bail agents are available to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. If you or a loved one needs help posting bail, call Urban Bail Bonds today at 303-623-0399.
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