Join the fight against criminal INjustice and urge Gov. Jared Polis to sign House Bill 25-1147. The law will ensure that people accused of minor crimes in municipal courts face sentences that are in line across the state.
Currently, a person charged with a low-level offense in municipal court can face a sentence up to 30 times longer than someone charged with an identical offense in state court. In Mesa County, one man served nine months in jail for shoplifting food.
“This isn’t about being soft on crime—it’s about ensuring our justice system treats everyone fairly regardless of which court they appear in,” said criminal defense attorney Casey Krizman. “It’s about fighting those whose only solution to any problem seems to be throwing people behind bars.”
One of the bill’s most crucial elements ensures the right to an attorney for anyone facing potential jail time. Without HB25-1147, certain municipal courts will continue to deny legal counsel to impoverished defendants. This practice isn’t just unjust; it’s unconstitutional.
Perhaps most troubling is how some city courts use disproportionate jail sentences to punish unhoused individuals for “poverty offenses” that would merit at most 10 days in state court. This practice effectively uses county jails as expensive and ineffective homeless shelters—at taxpayers’ expense.
HB25-1147, sponsored by Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, also promotes crucial transparency by ensuring that municipal courtrooms remain open to the public for in-custody hearings. As the saying goes, “Sunshine is the best disinfectant.” Too many municipal courts currently operate without public scrutiny, allowing potential abuses to continue unchallenged.
Krizman Law urges other justice warriors to contact Governor Polis immediately. Call (303) 866-2471 or email GovernorPolis@State.CO.US to the Governor’s office today and urge him to sign HB25-1147 into law.
Krizman Law is known for its relentless pursuit of justice for clients. That means thoughtfully listening to the client's story, diligently investigating the circumstances and the law, and aggressively advocating for the client in front of prosecutors, judges, and juries. If you're looking for a lawyer to fight on your behalf, consider these other Krizman Law success stories or call us at 720-819-7317.
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If you are in Colorado and have been charged with a crime, contact Krizman Law TODAY for a confidential review of your legal case.
As you deal with an arrest or any criminal charges, you are going to require an attorney who is competent and efficient in handling your case. Colorado Criminal Defense Attorney Casey Krizman is experienced and available to defend the rights of his clients and navigate them to a positive result. Mr. Krizman handles cases with his relentless will, and with aggressive, zealous, and caring advocacy. Call Krizman Law today at 720.819.7317.
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