Colorado § 18-1-710 - Affirmative defense.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-1-710 — Affirmative defense., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-1-710. Affirmative defense.
The issues of justification or exemption from criminal liability under sections 18-1-701 to 18-1-709 are affirmative defenses.
Source: L. 71: R&RE, p. 412, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 40-1-810.
Cross references: For the affirmative defense of impaired mental condition, see §§ 16-8-103.5 and 18-1-803; for other provisions concerning affirmative defenses generally, see §§ 18-1-407 and 18-1-805; for affirmative defenses to particular crimes, see specific criminal provisions in articles 2 to 18 of this title 18.
ANNOTATION
Law reviews. For article, "Self-Defense in Colorado", see 24 Colo. Law. 2717 (1995).
If evidence is intended to show entrapment, it should be presented in defendant's case-in-chief, since entrapment is an affirmative defense. People v. McKay, 191 Colo. 381, 553 P.2d 380 (1976).
Heat of passion is not an affirmative defense to first-degree or second-degree murder and no jury instruction regarding heat of passion needs to be given. People v. Carrier, 791 P.2d 1204 (Colo. App. 1989).
Applied in Bailey v. People, 630 P.2d 1062 (Colo. 1981); People v. Rex, 636 P.2d 1282 (Colo. App. 1981).
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-1-710
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-1-710 cover?
Section 18-1-710 ("Affirmative defense.") 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 § 18-1-710?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-1-710" (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 § 18-1-710 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.