Fort Collins False Imprisonment Attorney: What Is False Imprisonment in Colorado?
Under C.R.S. 18-3-303, False Imprisonment occurs when a person knowingly confines or detains another person without their consent and without proper legal authority. Confinement does not require locks or restraints. Blocking a doorway, taking car keys, or preventing someone from leaving a room can be alleged as False Imprisonment.
How Does a Domestic Violence Designation Change a Larimer County False Imprisonment Case?
False Imprisonment is frequently charged alongside other counts in Domestic Violence cases. When the alleged victim is a current or former intimate partner, prosecutors add a Domestic Violence designation to the underlying offense. That designation carries consequences beyond the charge itself, including mandatory protection orders, court-ordered treatment, and possible firearm restrictions.
Is False Imprisonment a Felony or Misdemeanor?
Classification depends on the allegations:
- Typically a class 2 misdemeanor
- Can be a class 5 felony in some cases, such as when the alleged confinement was for 12 hours or longer, or force was used.
- Related charges: Kidnapping, Assault, or Harassment may be filed alongside it
What Are the Penalties for a Loveland False Imprisonment Case?
Possible consequences include jail or prison time, fines, probation, a Domestic Violence offender program, and a criminal record that can appear on background checks. In Domestic Violence cases, a protection order may also bar you from your home or from contact with family members while the case is pending.
Frequently Asked Questions About False Imprisonment
Can False Imprisonment be charged without physical restraint?
Yes. Blocking an exit or preventing someone from leaving can be enough.
Is False Imprisonment a felony in Colorado?
It can be, depending on the circumstances alleged.
Will I get a protection order if charged?
Courts commonly issue mandatory protection orders in Domestic Violence cases.
Should I talk to police before hiring an attorney?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel.
If you’ve been charged with False Imprisonment or a Domestic Violence crime, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense lawyers from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007. Together, we can protect your future.
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