Illegal Discharge of a Firearm in Jefferson County, Colorado began as a law intended to stop drive-by shootings. However, the law has now changed. Illegally shooting a firearm now includes vehicles. Shooting a bullet into someone else's home can occur in a variety of settings. It may be intentionally shooting a shotgun at someone else in a car. Or, it could be an unintentional act. As discussed below, the crime can still be charged regardless of the intention of the shooter.

What is the Definition of Illegal Discharge of a Firearm in Arapahoe County, Colorado?

The definition of Illegal Discharge of a Firearm in Arapahoe County, Colorado is basically when:

a person knowingly or recklessly discharges a firearm into a dwelling, occupied structure, or vehicle. Experienced criminal attorneys in Aurora, Colorado know that this is a class five felony. Essentially, you could be looking at up to 3 years in prison. Thus, you could be a felon and lose your rights to possess firearms in the future. This additional punishment varies from other gun related crimes like Prohibited Use of Weapons or Disorderly Conduct.

Is an Accidental Discharge of a Firearm Considered a Crime in Denver?

In Denver, and throughout Colorado, an accidental discharge of a firearm is still considered a crime. As defense lawyers who handle cases in Denver, we see people charged with crimes for accidents all the time. For example, someone could be living in an apartment. They get home from shooting and are trying to clear the chamber of their pistol. All of a sudden, a round discharges and goes through their floor into the neighbor's apartment. Also, maybe a person was trying to clean their gun at home. They forgot to clear the gun and then shoot a round through their window into the next door neighbor's home. While these are obvious mistakes, it still is considered a criminal act by the Denver Police.

How can an Attorney Help me Fight Allegations of Illegal Discharge of a gun in Jefferson County?

As an attorney, I see gun crimes on the rise in Jefferson County, Colorado. I once heard a Jefferson County Sheriff's Deputy tell me something that I think of quite often. He said that it's not a matter of ‘if' you have an accidental discharge; it's a matter of ‘when'. Thinking about that quote, I want to help people avoid having a felony conviction for an accident. I want to fight the government's over-prosecution of gun crimes.

So, if you or a loved one has been charged with Illegal Discharge of a Firearm in Jefferson County, Colorado, call Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880 to speak immediately with one of our attorneys. Together, we can protect your future.

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