No, challenging someone to a duel remains illegal in Colorado under state statutes prohibiting mutual combat and public disorder. While historical dueling laws were repealed in 1971, Colorado’s criminal code (C.R.S. § 18-1-703) still criminalizes consensual violence, and local ordinances in Denver and Colorado Springs explicitly ban “dueling” as a form of assault. The Colorado Attorney General’s 2024 guidance reinforces that even “consensual” fights face prosecution under assault or disturbing the peace statutes.
Key Regulations for Challenging Someone to a Duel in Colorado
- Assault Prohibitions (C.R.S. § 18-3-204): Engaging in or soliciting a duel constitutes third-degree assault, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $750 in fines, regardless of mutual consent.
- Public Disorder Ordinances: Municipal codes in Denver (Sec. 38-28) and Colorado Springs (Sec. 9.4.103) classify dueling as a breach of peace, authorizing immediate police intervention and municipal citations.
- Firearms Restrictions (C.R.S. § 18-12-108): If the duel involves weapons, offenders face enhanced penalties under Colorado’s illegal discharge laws, with mandatory sentencing enhancements for use of firearms in prohibited activities.