What are level 2 drug misdemeanors in Colorado?
Colorado law subdivides drug misdemeanors into two tiers: level 1 to level 2. Level 2 drug misdemeanors are the least serious category of Colorado drug misdemeanors. Common examples of level 2 drug misdemeanors in Colorado include:
- The Colorado crime of abusing toxic vapors
- The Colorado crime of marijuana possession (more than 2 oz. but not more than 6 oz.)
- The Colorado crime of attempting to commit a level 1 or 2 drug misdemeanor
See the full list of Colorado level 2 drug misdemeanors.
What are level 2 drug misdemeanor penalties in Colorado?
The minimum penalty for level 2 drug misdemeanors is:
- $50 in fines
And the maximum penalty for level 2 drug misdemeanors is:
- 12 months imprisonment and/or $750 in fines
Starting March 1, 2020, the punishment for unlawful use is:
- Probation of up to 1 year;
- Possibly 120 days in jail; and
- Up to $500
But for a 3rd or subsequent offense, up to 180 days in jail
Other level 2 drug misdemeanor facts in Colorado
Defendants facing level 2 drug misdemeanor charges in Colorado are entitled to a jury trial of six people. (With the court’s approbation, the defendant may elect to have a bench trial instead or a smaller jury of no less than three people.) Depending on the circumstances of the case, the defendant might be able to have the drug case sealed from his/her criminal record.
Although Colorado level 2 drug misdemeanors and Colorado level 1 drug misdemeanors are not as harshly punished as felonies, some of them might be considered deportable offenses or crimes involving moral turpitude. Consequently, non-citizens facing certain level 2 drug misdemeanors charges should speak with an immigration and criminal defense attorney about how to try to protect their resident status in the U.S.
Arrested in Colorado? Call us . . . .
If you are facing drug misdemeanors in Colorado, our Denver Criminal Defense Attorneys are here to try to get the charge lessened or dismissed. We are also ready to fight the charge at trial if necessary. Call us at (303)222-0330 for a free consultation.
- Return to our Colorado drug laws main page