The verdict is in: It doesn't pay to threaten to a judge.

Thanks to a bill by Rep. Larry Liston, R-Colorado Springs, starting this week it will be a class 4 felony to threaten, or retaliate against, a judge or a member of his/her family.

"This new legislation will provide a greater sense of security for those who serve justice in our state," said Liston. "It will provide our judges a legal means of defense when they face intimidation and will help to ensure the integrity of our system."

Previously, individuals who threatened or harassed a judge could be charged under other offenses. Under HB 1115, it will be a separate offense that carries harsher penalties.

The Colorado Judicial Branch estimates that there are approximately three to five incidents that are reported annually that would fall under this law.

"Because of the concerns over retaliation and intimidation, there needed to be a tougher mandatory minimum penalty for violent crimes made against judges," said Liston.

HB 1115, which goes into effect on Tuesday, July 1 st, makes it a class 4 felony to threaten, harass or harm certain individuals in retaliation or retribution against a judge.