In Colorado, self-defense is a powerful legal tool — but only when used correctly. Whether you’re a private citizen, concealed carry permit holder, law enforcement officer, or armed security guard, understanding the when and how of using force — especially deadly force — can mean the difference between a justified defense and a criminal charge.
This article breaks down Colorado’s self-defense laws, including recent updates, and how they apply in real-life scenarios.
⚖️ What Is an Affirmative Defense?
Self-defense in Colorado is considered an affirmative defense. That means:
- You’re admitting that you used force,
- But you’re claiming it was legally justified.
Once your attorney presents any credible evidence of self-defense, the burden shifts to the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your use of force was not justified.
🏛️ When Is Force Justified in Colorado?
Under C.R.S. § 18-1-704, physical force is justified if a person:
- Reasonably believes it is necessary to protect themselves or another person from the imminent use of unlawful force.
🔴 When Is Deadly Force Justified?
Use of deadly physical force is only justified if the person reasonably believes it is necessary to:
- Prevent death or serious bodily injury to themselves or another person;
- Stop the commission of (or attempted commission of):
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
- Kidnapping or aggravated kidnapping
- Sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault
- First-degree arson
📝 Note: “Aggravated” crimes typically involve weapons, serious injury, or other elevated threats that justify a deadly response.
🧱 The Castle Doctrine – “Make My Day” Law (C.R.S. § 18-1-704.5)
In your home, Colorado law gives you broad authority to defend yourself. Under the Castle Doctrine:
- You may use deadly force against an intruder if you reasonably believe:
- The person unlawfully entered your home,
- They have committed, or intend to commit, a crime inside,
- And they may use any physical force, however slight.
You do not need to retreat or warn them — your home is your castle.
🚷 No Duty to Retreat (Colorado Vs. Monroe) – Colorado
Colorado is a No Duty To Retreat state. This means:
- You have no duty to retreat if you’re in a place you’re legally allowed to be.
- You have no duty to retreat and use force (including deadly force) if all other legal conditions are met.
- This applies to public places, workplaces, and vehicles — not just inside your home.
👮♂️ Who This Applies To
🧍 Citizens & CCW Holders
- Can use force to protect themselves or others from imminent unlawful force.
- May use deadly force in situations involving:
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated kidnapping
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Robbery
- First-degree arson
- Must not be the initial aggressor, unless they:
- Clearly withdraw from the encounter, and
- Communicate that withdrawal.
🛡️ Armed Security Guards
- Operate under civilian use-of-force laws, not police standards.
- May only use force proportionally and reasonably.
- Must justify every use-of-force incident with detailed documentation.
- May use deadly force only when facing serious, imminent threats or the crimes listed above.
👮 Law Enforcement Officers
- Governed by C.R.S. § 18-1-707, which provides broader discretion in using force.
- May use deadly force when arresting someone who:
- Has committed a felony involving a deadly weapon,
- Is actively using deadly force,
- Or poses an immediate threat to others.
- Off-duty officers acting in a private capacity (e.g., security) may fall under civilian self-defense laws.
⚠️ Self-Defense Limitations in Colorado
You cannot claim self-defense if:
- You were the initial aggressor (and didn’t withdraw),
- You were committing a forcible felony at the time,
- The force used was excessive or reckless,
- You misunderstood or overreacted to a non-lethal situation.
✅ Examples of Justified Use of Deadly Force
| Situation | Legally Justified? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Armed robber threatens clerk with a gun | ✅ Yes | Robbery with deadly weapon |
| Assailant attempts to rape a woman in a parking lot | ✅ Yes | Aggravated sexual assault |
| Someone tries to burn down an occupied home | ✅ Yes | First-degree arson |
| Man slaps you lightly during a heated argument | ❌ No | Not deadly force–just a fistfight |
| You chase someone and shoot them as they run away | ❌ No | No longer an imminent threat |
🧠 Final Takeaway
Self-defense is your legal right — but it’s not a blank check. You need to understand:
- What justifies force,
- When deadly force is legal,
- And how to articulate your decision under stress.
Every case is judged on whether your actions were reasonable, proportional, and necessary under the circumstances.
🎯 Need Legal Training or Firearms Instruction?
At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, we provide expert instruction in:
- Colorado Use of Force Law
- Concealed Handgun Permit Courses (CHP)
- Armed Security Training
- Scenario-Based Judgment Drills
📍 Visit: ConcealedCarryClassDenver.com
📞 Call: 720-924-6654
📧 Email: cccdinstructor@gmail.com
Legal Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney regarding your rights and responsibilities under the law. Concealed Carry Classes of Denver makes no guarantees regarding legal outcomes and assumes no liability for the application of the information provided herein.
