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Top-Rated Domestic Violence Attorneys in Denver, CO

Don’t Face Domestic Violence Charges Alone

At MBS Law, we provide top-notch legal representation for all types of domestic violence charges. We understand that every case is unique, and we work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy that will give you the best possible outcome. Our Denver domestic violence lawyers are committed to protecting your rights, reputation, and freedom, and we will be with you through every step of the legal process.

Types of Domestic Violence Charges in Colorado

Domestic violence is a sentencing enhancer that can be attached to all sorts of other crimes. For example, vandalizing the property of someone you have an intimate relationship with may be considered a form of domestic violence. Domestic violence can also be attached to an assault and battery charge, which is perhaps the domestic violence scenario that people are most familiar with. Learn more about the types of domestic charges in Colorado below.

Please note that, according to CRS 18-6-800.3(2), the definition of “intimate partner” is as follows: “a relationship between spouses, former spouses, past or present unmarried couples, or persons who are both the parents of the same child regardless of whether the persons have been married or have lived together at any time.”

  • Assault: Domestic violence assault charges involve inflicting knowing or reckless bodily injury to a current or former intimate partner, or threatening them with imminent bodily injury.
  • Child Abuse: Any act of violence or mistreatment against a child by a current or former intimate partner, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
  • Criminal Mischief: Intentionally damaging or destroying the property of a current or former intimate partner.
  • False Imprisonment: Involves intentionally restricting the freedom of movement of a current or former intimate partner without their consent.
  • Habitual Domestic Violence: Repeated acts of domestic violence committed by the same person against a current or former intimate partner. This charge may result in enhanced penalties.
  • Harassment: Knowingly striking, threatening, or following a current or former intimate partner in a way that causes them distress or alarm.
  • Menacing: Placing a current or former intimate partner in fear of imminent serious bodily injury by threat or physical action.
  • Sexual Contact: Refers to any intentional touching of intimate body parts of a current or former intimate partner without their consent.
  • Stalking: Intentionally contacting, threatening, following, or watching a current or former intimate partner in a way that causes them fear or distress.
  • Violation of Protection Order (VPO): Violating the terms and conditions of a court-issued protection order that was issued to protect a current or former intimate partner.
  • Violation of Restraining Order (VRO): Knowingly violating the terms and conditions of a court-issued restraining order that was issued to protect a current or former intimate partner.

Everyone deserves a fair trial, no matter what the circumstances. The MBS Law domestic violence defense attorneys in Denver are here to listen and support you throughout your case.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

Domestic violence is an enhancement, meaning that the punishment depends on the specific charge. Common consequences include the following:

  • Fines and Incarceration: Depending on the severity of the abuse, domestic violence may be punishable by a few months in jail or a few years in prison, as well as hefty fines.
  • Domestic Violence Evaluation & Classes: When someone is convicted of domestic violence, they must undergo an evaluation, which determines the number of DV-specific counseling classes they must take. Thirty six hours of counseling is normally the minimum required for a first offense.
  • Revocation of Firearm Rights: Under federal law, individuals convicted of domestic violence cannot legally own firearms. If you have a skilled lawyer by your side, you may be able to get the domestic violence enhancer removed from your charge.
If you are facing a domestic violence charge, consider hiring Denver’s best domestic violence lawyers. We can help get your sentence reduced. Contact MBS Law today to learn more.

Domestic Violence: Mandatory Arrest in Colorado

In the State of Colorado, domestic violence is an offense that merits mandatory arrest. This means that if an officer has reason to believe that an individual has committed an act of domestic violence, the officer is obligated to arrest the suspect. Also, contrary to popular belief, a victim of domestic violence cannot merely “drop charges” against an abuser. The district attorney may decide to go forward with the case even if the victim doesn’t want to.
This is where an expert domestic assault lawyer comes into play. Don’t leave your future in the hands of your accuser or the district lawyer; let MBS Law take care of your case.

What Does a Protection Order in Colorado Entail?

Protection orders are legal orders issued by a court to protect individuals who are victims of domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse. A domestic violence charge in Colorado triggers an automatic mandatory protection order. If you have an active protection order against you, you are prohibited from having contact or communication with the alleged victim.

There are three different types of protection orders in Colorado:
  • Temporary Protection Orders (TPOs): TPOs are usually issued on an emergency basis and are temporary in nature, typically lasting for a short period of time until a court hearing can be held.
  • Mandatory Protection Orders (MPOs): MPOs are automatically issued at the initial appearance in a criminal case and contain certain conditions/restrictions, including prohibiting contact with the alleged victim. MPOs last as long as the criminal case remains open/active.
  • Permanent Protection Orders (PPOs): PPOs are issued after a court hearing and are permanent. While there is a provision allowing for a person to petition the court for dismissal, this is only permitted after 7 years.
Violation of a protection order in Colorado is a serious offense and can result in criminal charges, including contempt of court, misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the nature of the violation. First-time violations can warrant the following penalties:
  • Up to 364 days in jail
  • Up to $1000 in fines
It is crucial to comply with the terms and conditions of a protection order to avoid legal consequences. If you have questions about these terms, feel free to contact the domestic abuse lawyers at MBS Law today for clarification.

Protection Orders vs. Restraining Orders: What’s the Difference?

Protection orders and restraining orders exist for the same primary purpose: to keep an alleged offender away from an alleged victim. However, while the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are some distinct differences in their scope and application.
  • Protection orders are automatically imposed against an offender in criminal cases involving domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse. These orders are issued by a criminal court to provide immediate protection to a victim and may prohibit contact and communication, along with other protective measures.
  • Restraining orders are typically issued in the context of a civil case, such as a divorce or child custody dispute. These orders are intended to restrict certain behaviors or actions from one party against another and may also include provisions surrounding contact, communication, and behavior.
Both restraining orders and protection orders are legally binding and enforceable by law. Violating the terms of either can have serious legal repercussions, including criminal charges and penalties. If you are unsure about the specifics of a protection/restraining order against you, reach out to a domestic assault attorney for an explanation.

Helping Clients Throughout the Denver Metro Area

Lawyers for Domestic Violence in Denver: Why You Should Hire MBS Law

Helping Clients Throughout the Denver Metro Area

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