Being accused of Domestic Violence in Loveland and Fort Collins, Colorado is a serious matter that can impact your freedom, your family, and your future, even before you’ve had your day in court. At O’Malley Law Office, we help people facing these difficult charges understand their rights and defend themselves against potentially life-altering consequences.
Lawyer for Domestic Violence Charges in Fort Collins: What Is Domestic Violence in Colorado?
Contrary to what many people think, Domestic Violence is not a standalone criminal charge in Fort Collins, Colorado. Instead, it’s a sentence enhancer applied to other crimes (such as Assault, Harassment, or Criminal Mischief) when the alleged victim is someone you’ve had an intimate relationship with.
According to Colorado Revised Statute § 18-6-800.3, an “intimate relationship” can include:
- Current or former spouses,
- Boyfriends/girlfriends or dating partners,
- Co-parents of a child, regardless of whether you were ever in a relationship.
So, if someone alleges that you assaulted, threatened, or even damaged property during or after a conflict with an intimate partner, Domestic Violence sentence enhancer may be added, which increases the stakes considerably.
Domestic Violence Mandatory Arrest Policy in Larimer County
One of the most important things to understand about Domestic Violence in Larimer County: police are required to make an arrest if they have probable cause to believe Domestic Violence occurred. That means:
- You can be arrested based solely on an accusation.
- The alleged victim cannot “drop the charges.” Once the case is in the hands of the District Attorney, it’s up to the state whether to proceed.
Larimer Count Domestic Violence Attorney: Protection Orders Are Automatic in DV Cases
If you’re arrested for a Domestic Violence related offense, a mandatory protection order (also called a restraining order) will be issued. This usually prohibits you from:
- Contacting the alleged victim (directly or indirectly),
- Returning to your shared home,
- Possessing firearms or ammunition.
Violating a protection order can lead to additional criminal charges, even if the alleged victim initiates contact.
Possible Penalties For Domestic Violence Cases in Estes Park
Penalties for a Domestic Violence conviction depend on the underlying charge, but consequences may include:
- Jail time or prison,
- Mandatory Domestic Violence Treatment Program (DV classes),
- Loss of gun rights under state and federal law,
- Permanent protection orders,
- Difficulty with child custody or divorce proceedings,
- Damage to your professional and personal reputation.
If you have a prior Domestic Violence conviction, you may be labeled a habitual Domestic Violence offender, which can elevate future charges to felonies.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer for Your Domestic Violence Case
Domestic Violence allegations move quickly through Colorado’s legal system, from the mandatory arrest to the no-contact order, to court dates that begin within days. Without an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney, you could face serious penalties before you’ve had a chance to defend yourself.
At O’Malley Law Office, we understand how high the stakes are. We fight aggressively to protect your rights, challenge unfair accusations, and guide you through every step of the process with skill and discretion.
If you’ve been charged with a Domestic Violence offense, 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.
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