Misdemeanor and Felony Menacing

If you are accused of making a threat against somebody else, you may be charged with the crime of menacing. Menacing is defined as deliberately putting another party “in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.” It may involve a verbal threat, a written threat, or a physical threat. In the state of Colorado, menacing may be considered either a felony or a misdemeanor offense. If a weapon is used while making the threat, the offense can be treated as a Class 5 felony. Without the weapon, menacing is a Class 3 misdemeanor. Even if a person is not actually carrying a weapon while making the threat, that person may be charged with felony menacing if he or she gave the other party cause to believe that a weapon was present.

Menacing is a serious offense, so if you or a loved one has been accused of committing this crime—either with or without a weapon—it’s important that you contact a criminal defense attorney in Denver, CO, who handles felony or misdemeanor cases. Your attorney will be able to help ensure that your rights are protected.