Misdemeanor charges are some of the most common criminal cases filed in Weld County, but they are often misunderstood. Many people assume a misdemeanor is “minor” or not worth fighting. In reality, a misdemeanor conviction in Weld County can carry jail time, fines, probation, and long-term consequences that affect employment, housing, and reputation.
If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Johnstown, Firestone, Frederick, Milliken, Eaton, Severance, or elsewhere in Weld County, understanding how these cases are handled, and why legal representation matters, is critical.
What Is a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
Under Colorado law, crimes are generally classified as infractions, petty offences, misdemeanors, or felonies. Misdemeanors fall in the middle. They are more serious than traffic or petty offenses but less severe than felonies.
Misdemeanor cases in Weld County are typically handled in:
- Weld County Court
- Municipal courts (such as Greeley Municipal Court), depending on the charge
Despite being lower-level offenses, misdemeanors can still result in incarceration and a permanent criminal record.
Classes of Misdemeanors in Colorado
Colorado misdemeanors are divided into several classes, including:
- Class 1 Misdemeanors – The most serious misdemeanor level
- Class 2 Misdemeanors
- Unclassified Misdemeanors – Penalties depend on the specific statute
Penalties may include up to 364 days in jail, fines, probation, and other court-ordered conditions.
Common Misdemeanor Charges in Weld County
Some of the most frequently charged misdemeanors in Weld County include:
- Assault (Third Degree)
- Harassment or Domestic Violence Related Offenses
- DUI and DWAI (first-time or misdemeanor cases)
- Theft and Shoplifting
- Criminal Mischief
- Disorderly Conduct
- Violation of a Protection Order
- Drug Possession (misdemeanor level cases)
Many of these charges can escalate quickly based on prior convictions, alleged victim injury, or protected class status.
Misdemeanors and Jail Time in Weld County
One of the most common misconceptions is that misdemeanors do not involve jail. In Weld County, judges regularly impose jail sentences in misdemeanor cases, especially for:
- Domestic Violence related offenses
- Repeat offenders
- Violations of court orders
- Alcohol or drug related crimes
Even a short jail sentence can have serious personal and professional consequences.
Additional Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction
Beyond jail and fines, a misdemeanor conviction in Weld County can lead to:
- Probation with strict conditions
- Mandatory classes or treatment programs
- No contact or protection orders
- Loss of firearm rights (in some cases)
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- A permanent criminal record visible on background checks
For many people, these collateral consequences are more damaging than the sentence itself.
How Misdemeanor Cases Are Handled in Weld County
Weld County prosecutors take misdemeanor cases seriously, particularly those involving alleged violence, substance use, or repeat conduct. Judges often expect compliance with bond conditions and court orders from the very beginning of a case.
Having a defense attorney familiar with Weld County Court procedures, prosecutors, and judges can make a significant difference in how a case is resolved.
If you or someone you love has been charged with a misdemeanor, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Kindel Media