A late-night noise. A stranger’s shadow in your hallway. At that moment, every Coloradan wonders: What can I legally do to protect my home and family? Colorado’s Make My Day Law (MMD) gives homeowners certain rights to defend themselves. But it’s not a free pass to use deadly force. Understanding what this law actually says can make the difference between justified self-defense and criminal charges.
Our Boulder, Colorado homicide defense lawyer will explain what you should know.
Please call (970) 219-2923 or fill out our online form today for a free consultation.
Under state law, residents can use deadly force against an intruder in their home under certain conditions. This law, enacted in 1985, was designed to protect people startled by unlawful intrusions and forced to make split-second decisions to defend themselves or others.
To legally invoke the MMD law, three conditions generally must exist:
If all three conditions are satisfied, deadly force may be legally justified. That said, protection only applies inside the home, not to vehicles or public spaces.
Colorado law includes the Castle Doctrine, a broader principle of self-defense. This doctrine states that a person is not required to retreat when faced with a threat in their home. Instead, they have the right to stand their ground and protect themselves or others from harm.
While both laws focus on protecting individuals in their dwellings, the Make My Day law specifically outlines when deadly force is justified, while the Castle Doctrine clarifies a person’s right to defend themselves at home without retreating.
Colorado home defense laws balance an individual’s right to safety with limits on excessive force.
It’s crucial to know that:
So, can you shoot an intruder in your home? Only if the above conditions exist and you acted reasonably under the circumstances.
Not necessarily. Trespassing alone usually doesn’t justify deadly force. Deadly force is only justified when the homeowner reasonably believes the trespasser poses an immediate threat or is committing another serious crime, like arson.
Colorado courts have clarified this standard and ruled that the MMD law applies only when intruders’ actions create a credible perception of danger or criminal intent. Not merely presence.
The Colorado Make My Day Law isn’t a blanket defense.
There are strict limits on when it applies, such as:
In every case, prosecutors examine the facts, the perceived threat, and whether the response was proportionate. Our skilled defense attorney can argue that your actions met the statutory standards of lawful defense.
At Merson Law Office, LLC, we bring over 20 years of experience in criminal defense, handling nearly every type of case from serious felonies to sensitive self-defense issues. We’re known for finding the “best escape hatch,” even in the most difficult cases.
Our results-driven mindset and straightforward communication make us a trusted ally for clients throughout Longmont, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado. Clients often come to us when everything feels uncertain and leave knowing exactly what’s next.
If you’re facing charges after a self-defense incident or are unsure whether your actions were legally justified, now is the time to get clarity and protection. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling (970) 219-2923. Let’s start building your defense today.
Technically, Colorado doesn’t have a traditional “stand your ground” statute like some other states. However, the Colorado Castle Doctrine and the Make My Day Law serve a similar function by removing the duty to retreat when threatened at home.
Even if you believe your actions were lawful, police and prosecutors may investigate. Having a defense lawyer immediately can distinguish between being charged and being cleared.
Stay calm and contact an attorney before speaking to law enforcement. Your lawyer can evaluate whether your actions meet the statutory definition of justified force.
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