What Happens In Felony Court?

What Happens in Felony Court in Colorado

Assault and Violent Crimes, Criminal Defense Process, Drug Crimes Defense, Sex Crimes Defense, White Collar and Property Crimes

A felony case moves through several distinct stages before it reaches a jury. Knowing what to expect at each step can reduce your anxiety

Arrest and First Advisement

Within 48 hours of arrest, you appear before a judge for a bond hearing. Bond takes one of three forms: a personal recognizance bond (you are released on your promise to appear), a cash or surety bond (a bondsman typically charges 10% of the set amount), or a cash-only bond (the full amount must be paid to secure release).

Charges and Second Advisement

With a felony, the police do not file charges directly. The case goes to the district attorney’s office, which decides what charges to pursue. Your second advisement, where you learn the specific charges, happens anywhere from three days to a month later depending on your jurisdiction.

Preliminary Hearing

If you are facing a Class 3 felony or higher, a charge that carries prison time, or certain charges like a felony DUI, you have a right to a preliminary hearing. That hearing is set within 35 days of the second advisement.

Arraignment and Negotiation

Arraignments follow the preliminary hearing and can occur multiple times. This is the primary window for negotiating with the prosecutor.

Motions, Motions Hearing, and Trial

If the case proceeds to trial, your attorney files motions by a court deadline. A motions hearing follows. Then trial, where the prosecution must prove every element of every charge beyond a reasonable doubt.

The full timeline from arrest through the last pre-trial arraignment typically runs two to six months. Once you enter a not-guilty plea, the prosecution has six months by statute to bring you to trial.

Download Felony Case Timeline

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