Colorado § 17-20-122 - Justification of officer.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-20-122 — Justification of officer., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-20-122. Justification of officer.
If an inmate sentenced to any state correctional facility resists the authority of any officer or refuses to obey any officer's lawful commands, it is the duty of such officer immediately to enforce obedience by the use of such weapons or other aid as may be effectual. If in so doing any inmate thus resisting is wounded or killed by such officer or such officer's assistants, such use of force is justified and any officer using such force shall be held guiltless; but such officer shall not be excused for using greater force than the emergency of the case demands.
Source: L. 77: Entire title R&RE, p. 922, § 10, effective August 1. L. 79: Entire section amended, p. 696, § 53, effective July 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 51, § 9, effective July 1.
Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-20-122 as it existed prior to 1977.
Cross references: For the use of physical force by an authorized official of a jail, prison, or correctional institution, see § 18-1-703 (1)(b); for use of force in preventing escape from a detention facility, see § 18-1-707 (8).
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 17-20-122
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-20-122 cover?
Section 17-20-122 ("Justification of officer.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 17-20-122?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-20-122" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 17-20-122 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.