In high-stress moments, people often react out of fear and instinct. If you feel your life is in danger, it’s natural to want to protect yourself. But in Colorado, especially in Denver, the legal system takes a close look at self-defense cases—particularly when they involve the use of deadly force.
If you’re wondering what happens if you shoot someone in self-defense, the answer is: it depends on several factors. Colorado law does allow for self-defense under certain conditions, but justifying your actions in court isn’t always straightforward. In this blog, we’ll break down how self-defense laws work in Denver, what legal protections exist, and what you should expect if you ever find yourself in such a situation.
Understanding Colorado’s Self-Defense Laws
Colorado law recognizes the right of individuals to defend themselves from threats or harm. It includes the lawful use of physical, including deadly, force when necessary to protect against serious harm. However, the use of that force must meet specific legal standards.
Under Colorado Revised Statute § 18-1-704, a person is justified in using physical force upon another person when they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or someone else from unlawful force or the threat of harm.
But here’s the catch: the use of deadly force is only justified if:
- The person reasonably believes they are in imminent danger of being killed or seriously injured, and
- The force used was proportionate to the threat they faced.
Using deadly force in self-defense doesn’t guarantee legal immunity. Authorities will thoroughly investigate your actions, and there’s still a possibility you could be arrested or face charges while your justification is evaluated.
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The “Make My Day” Law in Colorado
Colorado also has a version of the “Castle Doctrine,” commonly known as the Make My Day law. The law permits the use of deadly force against an intruder within one’s home, provided specific conditions are met.
Under this statute, if someone unlawfully enters your home, and you believe they intend to commit a crime and pose a physical threat, you may be legally justified in using deadly force. However, this protection only applies within your home—it does not extend to your car, yard, or other public spaces.
It’s important to understand that even if you’re acting under the Make My Day law, authorities will still evaluate your actions carefully.
What Happens Immediately After a Self-Defense Shooting?
The moments after a self-defense shooting are often chaotic and emotionally charged. Here’s what happens if you shoot someone in self-defense in Denver:
1. Police Will Respond Immediately
When shots are fired, someone—whether it’s you, a neighbor, or a bystander—will likely call 911. Law enforcement will respond, secure the scene, and may detain or question you.
2. You Might Be Arrested
Even if it appears to be a clear-cut case of self-defense, the police may arrest you, especially if someone is injured or killed. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be charged—it just means they are treating the situation seriously and preserving evidence.
3. An Investigation Will Begin
Law enforcement and the district attorney’s office will carry out a detailed investigation, collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and analyzing your account of the incident. Surveillance footage, firearm records, and forensics will all play a role in deciding whether charges should be filed.
Will You Face Criminal Charges?
The short answer is: possibly. Whether or not you are formally charged depends on the outcome of the investigation and how your actions align with the legal definition of self-defense.
If prosecutors believe that you reasonably believed you were in danger and that your use of deadly force was necessary and proportionate, you may not be charged.
But if they find inconsistencies in your story, evidence of aggression on your part, or signs that the threat wasn’t truly imminent, you could face charges like:
- Manslaughter
- Criminally negligent homicide
- Second-degree murder
This is why legal representation is essential from the moment an incident occurs. Do not try to explain or justify your actions without an attorney present.
Factors That Influence the Outcome
Every case is different, but some of the key factors that prosecutors and investigators will consider include:
- Whether the other person was armed
- The location of the incident (e.g., inside your home vs. in a public place)
- Your behavior before, during, and after the shooting
- Witness accounts and physical evidence
- Whether you attempted to de-escalate the situation
Grasping the realities of using deadly force for self-protection goes beyond legal definitions—it also means understanding how your decisions may be interpreted by police, prosecutors, and a jury.
Civil Consequences of a Self-Defense Shooting
You may still be subject to civil lawsuits, even if no criminal charges are filed or you’re acquitted in court. The family of the person you shot may decide to sue for wrongful death or personal injury.
The standard of proof required in civil court is less strict than what’s needed in a criminal trial. That means a person can be held financially liable even if they were found not guilty of a crime.
Insurance policies may not cover all the legal expenses or financial judgments in such cases, which is another reason it’s critical to have experienced legal representation throughout the process.
What You Should Do After a Self-Defense Incident
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’ve had to defend yourself with deadly force, here are the steps you should take:
- Contact 911 right away – Inform authorities about the incident and ask for medical help if necessary.
- Do Not Flee the Scene – Leaving can be seen as an admission of guilt or an attempt to avoid responsibility.
- Remain Silent Until You Have Legal Counsel – You have the right to remain silent. Use it.
- Cooperate Without Volunteering Information – Stay calm and provide only basic details (e.g., “I was attacked,” “There’s a weapon”). Wait for your lawyer before answering further questions.
- Seek Legal Representation Immediately – An attorney can guide you through statements, evidence collection, and interactions with police and prosecutors.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what happens if you shoot someone in self-defense is crucial, especially in a state like Colorado, where legal protections exist—but aren’t guaranteed. Even when your intentions are to protect yourself or others, you could still face legal consequences that can impact your life forever.
Self-defense is a valid legal right, but it’s one that comes with significant responsibilities. The law will closely examine your choices, your behavior, and whether your perception of danger was truly reasonable.
If you’ve been involved in a self-defense incident and need to protect your rights, working with a skilled legal team is one of the most important decisions you can make. Dawson Law Office is committed to helping individuals navigate these complex and high-stakes situations with care, precision, and respect for the gravity of what’s at stake.
