Colorado § 18-8-305 - Trading in public office.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-305 — Trading in public office., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-8-305. Trading in public office.
(1) A person commits trading in public office if:
(a) He offers, confers, or agrees to confer any pecuniary benefit upon a public servant or party officer upon an agreement or understanding that he or a particular person will or may be appointed to a public office or designated or nominated as a candidate for public office; or
(b) While a public servant or party officer, he solicits, accepts, or agrees to accept any pecuniary benefit from another upon an agreement or understanding that a particular person will or may be appointed to a public office or designated or nominated as a candidate for public office.
(2) It shall be an affirmative defense that the pecuniary benefit was a customary contribution to political campaign funds solicited and received by lawfully constituted political parties.
(3) Trading in public office is a class 1 misdemeanor.
Source: L. 71: R&RE, p. 460, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 40-8-305. L. 72: p. 275, § 7. L. 73: p. 539, § 6.
Cross references: For affirmative defenses generally, see §§ 18-1-407, 18-1-710, and 18-1-805.
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-8-305
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-305 cover?
Section 18-8-305 ("Trading in public office.") 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 § 18-8-305?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-305" (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 § 18-8-305 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.