Domestic Violence cases are among the most frequently prosecuted in Larimer County, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. If you have been arrested on a Domestic Violence charge in Fort Collins or anywhere in Larimer County, it is important to understand that Domestic Violence in Colorado is not a standalone crime; it is a sentence enhancer that can be applied to a wide range of underlying offenses.
How Colorado Defines Domestic Violence: A Larimer County DV Lawyer Explains
Under C.R.S. § 18-6-800.3, Domestic Violence is defined as an act or threatened act of violence against a person with whom the defendant has or had an intimate relationship. It also includes crimes against property, animals, or third parties when used as a method of coercion, control, punishment, or intimidation against an intimate partner. This broad definition means that many offenses can carry a Domestic Violence designation.
The Most Common Underlying Domestic Violence Charges in Fort Collins and Loveland
Assault is one of the most frequently charged offenses in Domestic Violence cases in Larimer County. Depending on the severity of the alleged injuries, assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Harassment under C.R.S. § 18-9-111 is another common charge, often stemming from repeated phone calls, text messages, or physical contact intended to annoy or alarm the alleged victim.
Menacing charges arise when one party allegedly placed the other in fear of imminent serious bodily injury, particularly when a weapon (or the threat of one) is involved.
Criminal Mischief, which involves the damage or destruction of another person’s property, frequently appears in Domestic Violence cases involving broken phones, damaged vehicles, or vandalized belongings.
False Imprisonment is also regularly charged when one partner is accused of preventing the other from leaving a room, home, or vehicle.
The Stakes for a Domestic Violence Charge in Larimer County
A Domestic Violence designation triggers mandatory consequences under Colorado law, including a protection order, loss of firearm rights, and mandatory treatment programs upon conviction. The Larimer County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases vigorously, even when the alleged victim does not wish to press charges. If you are facing Domestic Violence charges in Fort Collins, do not wait. Contact an experienced Larimer County criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Domestic Violence, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Timur Weber