What Are the Consequences of a Menacing Charge?

Under the law, menacing means threatening another person and deliberately making him or her fearful of bodily harm. Because the consequences for this charge can be severe, it is important to hire a criminal defense attorney in Denver, CO, as soon as possible if you are charged with menacing.

Menacing charges can be misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the nature of the incident. Verbal menacing threats are charged as misdemeanors, while any menacing that involves a deadly weapon is charged as a felony. Often, a criminal defense attorney can help a client charged with misdemeanor menacing either avoid conviction or receive probation only, particularly if the client does not have a record.

Felony menacing carries harsher penalties. If you are charged with this crime and have a criminal record, you could face up to three years in prison. Your criminal defense attorney can argue for leniency in your sentence if you don’t have a record or if your record does not include violent crimes. You may also lose your right to own a firearm if you are convicted of felony menacing.