Domestic Violence Attorney in Louisville, Colorado

Yes, securing the safety and well-being of children involved in domestic violence cases is a priority for us. Our attorneys are experienced in navigating the complexities of family law to secure favorable custody arrangements that prioritize the children's safety and the victim's protective needs.

In addition to legal assistance, Louisville offers various resources for domestic violence victims, including emergency shelters and counseling services. Our firm works closely with local organizations to ensure that our clients receive comprehensive support throughout their journey to safety.

Colorado’s domestic violence definition reaches beyond physical assault to include crimes against a person or property, including an animal, when used as a method of coercion, control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge against an intimate partner. That means conduct like criminal mischief or harming a pet can qualify when used to control or threaten a partner. The designation is a sentencing enhancer applied to an underlying offense. Its application can affect treatment requirements, plea options, and firearm rights. The court decides whether the facts meet the statutory definition. The definition is set out in C.R.S. 18-6-800.3.

When officers find probable cause that a domestic violence offense occurred, state law requires an arrest without undue delay. At the first court appearance, a mandatory protection order issues that generally prohibits harassment or contact and can impose no-alcohol or stay-away terms. If the court determines the case involves threatened or actual physical force, it must order the defendant to relinquish firearms and ammunition and set a compliance hearing. Possessing or purchasing firearms while the order is in effect violates the order. Courts use standardized forms and enforcement procedures to track compliance. These steps are governed by C.R.S. 18-6-803.6 and 18-1-1001.

Not automatically, because the decision to dismiss rests with the prosecutor, not the complaining witness. Colorado law restricts dismissals of the domestic violence designation unless the prosecutor represents on the record that a prima facie case cannot be proven regarding the intimate relationship element. This means a case can proceed even if a victim recants or does not wish to cooperate. Prosecutors may rely on other evidence such as officer observations, recordings, medical records, or photographs. Judges also consider victim safety in any release or plea decisions. The restriction appears in C.R.S. 18-6-801.

We prioritize the confidentiality and safety of our clients by implementing strict privacy measures during all legal proceedings. Our attorneys are committed to protecting victim's information and ensuring a secure environment for them to discuss their cases freely. For further support or to discuss your specific situation, feel free to reach out to us.