Domestic Violence, C.R.S. 18-6-800.3, is frequently added as a sentence enhancer to misdemeanor offenses in Fort Collins, CO. Too many misdemeanor DV convictions, however, and you could be designated a Habitual Domestic Violence Offender at the Larimer County Courts. This takes place whenever a person has had 3 prior convictions of misdemeanor crimes of Domestic Violence. After that, a person who is charged with a 4th or subsequent misdemeanor DV crime is instead charged with a class 5 felony. If you have been charged as a Habitual Offender, don’t wait – contact a top Fort Collins Domestic Violence lawyer today.
Colorado’s Habitual Domestic Violence Offender Law, C.R.S. 18-6-701 (7)
Colorado’s Habitual Domestic Violence Offender law, C.R.S. 18-6-701 (7), is as follows:
Misdemeanor Crimes of Domestic Violence in Fort Collins
Common misdemeanor crimes of Domestic Violence charged in Fort Collins include:
- Harassment, C.R.S. 18-9-111
- Assault in the Third Degree, C.R.S. 18-3-204
- False Imprisonment, C.R.S. 18-3-303
- Second Degree Criminal Tampering, C.R.S. 18-4-506
- Violation of a Protection Order, C.R.S. 18-6-803.5
Conviction of any of these crimes, or another misdemeanor crime of Domestic Violence, on three separate occasions will result in Habitual Domestic Violence Offender designation.
Penalties for Habitual Domestic Violence Offenders in Loveland and Estes Park
Designation as a Habitual Domestic Violence Offender in Loveland and Estes Park means that any fourth or subsequent misdemeanor DV crime will be charged as a class 5 felony. If convicted, the defendant could be sentenced to:
- 1 – 3 years in the Colorado DOC
- 1 year of mandatory parole upon release
- Fine of $1,000 – $100,000
- Restitution, if applicable
- Paying for and pursuing Domestic Violence treatment
Designation as a Habitual DV Offender is serious, and can result in stiff consequences if you are convicted. Don’t wait to get in contact with a top criminal defense lawyer to represent you. Representation is key to protecting your future in any Domestic Violence case – especially when you’ve been charged with a felony.
Have you been charged with a crime of Domestic Violence as a Habitual Offender? Be smart, and exercise your right to stay silent. Then get in contact with a criminal lawyer with over 3 decades of experience at the O’Malley Law Office today at 970-658-0007. Together, we can protect your future.
The location for the Larimer County Courthouse is 201 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado. We’ll see you there!
Photo by Timur Weber