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Colorado Springs Domestic Violence Attorney

Domestic violence charges are serious, even at the misdemeanor level. In fact, arrests for domestic violence can damage personal relationships, reputations, and careers. These cases can also threaten your freedom and future.

We understand the impacts of domestic abuse charges and convictions. This is why we are dedicated to providing effective defense advocacy to those accused of domestic violence charges.

If you were arrested for domestic abuse, you can turn to our Colorado Springs criminal defense attorneys. We provide support and superior representation, and will help you navigate the criminal justice system.

When you partner with us, you can be confident that your rights will be fully protected. We will work to limit the negative impacts and achieve the best outcome possible.

We are available 24/7 to answer your questions, assuage your concerns and defend you. We can meet you and/or a loved one at jail or our Colorado Springs office. We can also discuss your case over the phone.

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How Does Colorado Law Define Domestic Violence?

Colorado law (C.R.S. 18-6-800.3) defines domestic violence as “an act or threatened act of violence upon a person with whom the actor is or has been involved in an intimate relationship.” The law also defines:

  • Domestic violence is any act against property, including an animal, that is used to coerce, punish, intimidate, or enact revenge upon a person with whom the actor is in an intimate relationship.
  • An intimate relationship is any relationship between spouses, current or former unmarried couples, or unmarried parents of a child (regardless of whether they have ever lived together).

Please note that domestic abuse is not a stand-alone crime. Instead, it is a sentencing enhancer that’s added to other criminal charges, like assault or stalking.

Some examples of actions that can result in sentencing enhancers include:

  • Violence, such as assault
  • Threats of violent actions
  • Destruction of property
  • Incessant, unwanted contact, like calling or texting incessantly.

What Happens After Colorado Springs Police Are Called?

Their primary focus is to determine whether there is probable cause that a domestic violence offense has occurred. Probable cause means that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that something has taken place.

If there is probable cause of domestic violence, police are required to arrest the person suspected. The police must do this “without undue delay.” This is due to Colorado’s mandatory arrest laws in domestic violence cases.

Once an arrest has been made by law enforcement:

  • A mandatory protection order will go into effect. This order prohibits the accused person from communicating with the alleged victim. The intention is to protect alleged victims as the investigation and case proceed. Violating the terms of a protective order can result in more criminal charges and cases.
  • The victim cannot “drop” the charges. Whether or not the case will proceed is the prosecutor’s decision. Prosecutors may consider the alleged victim’s wishes when deciding whether to pursue the case.

When Are Misdemeanor Versus Felony Domestic Violence Charges Filed?

The level and severity of the domestic violence charge filed will depend on the nature of the underlying charge(s) associated with the case. Victims of domestic abuse in Colorado Springs cannot drop the charges.

Those who have at least three prior domestic violence convictions can be charged as “habitual offenders”. Habitual domestic violence offender charges are Class 5 felonies, which can be punishable by:

  • 1 to 3 years in prison
  • $1,000 to $100,000 in fines
  • Possibly other penalties.

Sentencing may be doubled in cases that involve violent crimes, like assaults and sexual assaults.

What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Colorado Springs?

The penalties for domestic violence will vary, depending on factors like (but not limited to):

  • The precise nature and level of the charges filed
  • Whether the accused has prior domestic violence convictions and/or a criminal record.

Generally, however, penalties for domestic violence may include some combination of:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Fines
  • Treatment programs
  • Probation
  • Loss of certain rights, such as the right to buy or possess firearms.

Here are some specific penalties for domestic violence in Colorado Springs:

  • Simple assault: This is the least serious form of domestic violence and is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
  • Aggravated assault: This is a more serious form of domestic violence and is punishable by up to 6 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
  • Menacing: This is a form of domestic violence that involves threatening the victim with violence. Penalties start at 6 months in jail and a $750 fine. If a deadly weapon was involved, it can lead to felony charges and a much harsher punishment.
  • Stalking: This is a form of domestic violence that involves following or harassing the victim. It is punishable by up to 4 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $100,000.
  • Harassment: This is when someone intentionally torments their partner or ex-partner. Penalties start at $300 and 10 days in jail, and increase if the harassment escalated to following or touching someone in public.
  • Violation of a Restraining Order: If a restraining order associated with a domestic violence case is violated, penalties can include a $1,000 fine and up to 18 months in jail.

Defense Strategies for Colorado Domestic Violence Charges

Being charged with a domestic violence crime can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence charges in Colorado, it’s important to understand the legal process and your available defense options. 

False Accusations

False accusations of domestic violence occur more often than some people may think. Sometimes, an accuser may make false allegations out of spite or revenge, or because they do not want to admit that they were the one who committed the act of violence. If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, it is important that you take the accusation seriously and consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. 

Self Defense

In some cases, an individual may find themselves facing domestic violence charges when their actions were done in self-defense. To successfully claim self-defense as your defense strategy, you must prove that you had reasonable grounds for believing that your physical safety was threatened and that your response was necessary and proportional to the perceived threat. 

Accident

Sometimes, individuals may face charges of domestic violence when their actions were accidental or unintentional. If the act was truly unintentional, it could be argued that there was no criminal intent behind it and therefore no crime was committed at all.

Insufficient Evidence 

Lastly, insufficient evidence is another potential defense strategy for those who have been charged with domestic violence in Colorado. This argument is positing not that you didn’t do what you’re alleged to have done, but that there isn’t enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you did. 

Can a Domestic Violence Charge Lead to Loss of Custody or Visitation Rights?

In Colorado, courts must consider the impact of domestic violence when determining parenting time and responsibilities. One of the most common consequences of domestic violence is loss of parental rights. If a parent is convicted of domestic violence, in most cases, the judge won’t give parental responsibility (custody) to the parent who committed domestic violence. However, that parent can get parenting time with the children.

Colorado follows a “best interests of the child” statute, meaning that all child custody and parenting decisions should reflect the child’s best interests. A domestic violence charge doesn’t even need to be filed; any evidence that points towards child abuse or neglect can impact the decision. The judge’s primary concern is the safety and well-being of the child when awarding custody.

How Does Domestic Violence Affect Employment? 

Domestic violence is a serious issue that can have lasting consequences on many areas of the accused’s life, including their career options.

In many cases, employers run a criminal background check prior to or during employment. A conviction for domestic violence can result in loss of job or denial of promotion, regardless of how minor the charge may be. 

Many people don’t realize that plea bargains can also be as damming as convictions in terms of background checks. This means that even if you plead down your case to avoid jail time, you may still be facing an uphill battle when it comes to securing employment opportunities. A domestic violence record could also prevent you from obtaining certain job certifications or licenses. 

There may be additional proceedings and penalties depending on the situation individual. Military members accused of domestic violence may also have to deal with court martial cases.

Our domestic violence lawyers are ready to discuss the circumstances surrounding your arrest or case. We will explain the process that lies ahead and inform you of the potential penalties.

Have an Experienced Colorado Springs Domestic Violence Attorney On Your Side

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If you or a loved one has been arrested for or charged with domestic violence, call our law firm at (719) 227-0007 or email us for a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation. A trusted Colorado Springs domestic violence attorney at Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C. is available 24/7 to:

  • Answer your questions
  • Advise you of your rights and options for proceeding
  • Vigorously defend you against the charge(s).

With more than 30 years of criminal trial experience, our Colorado Springs domestic violence lawyers are former prosecutors. We have a deep understanding of how prosecutors build and present cases. This gives us the insights necessary to anticipate what the prosecution may do and strategically structure your defense.

At the law firm of Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C., we do not accept an unfair outcome, and we will use our decades of experience to fight for favorable results. Whenever possible, we will aggressively pursue the many alternatives to conviction and incarceration.

Our extensive experience and record of success have earned us many professional honors, 5-star reviews on Google, and the respect of colleagues, local judges and prosecutors. Contact us for a free consultation today with a domestic violence lawyer.

“Eric provided us with excellent guidance and representation. I was very pleased with how he analyzed the facts and the law. His communication was very prompt and helpful. Eric’s advice was what we needed. His advocacy in court was very well done.”

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Domestic Violence Charge FAQs:

What is a Plea Bargain and Should I Take One For My Domestic Violence Charge?

A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for the prosecution dropping the more serious charges. Plea bargains are a common way to resolve criminal cases, and they can be a good option for defendants who want to avoid a trial.

Whether or not you should take a plea bargain for a domestic violence charge in Colorado depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the charge, your criminal history, and the strength of the prosecution’s case. If you are facing a serious charge, such as aggravated assault, you may want to consider going to trial. However, if you are facing a less serious charge, such as simple assault, you may want to consider taking a plea bargain.

There are a number of benefits to taking a plea bargain, including:

  • You may be able to avoid jail time.
  • You may be able to get a lighter sentence.
  • You may be able to avoid a trial.

However, there are also some risks to taking a plea bargain, including:

  • You may be admitting to something you did not do.
  • You may be giving up your right to a trial.
  • You may be limited in your ability to appeal the conviction.

If you are considering taking a plea bargain for a domestic violence charge in Colorado, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in negotiations with the prosecution.

Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to take a plea bargain for a domestic violence charge in Colorado:

  • The severity of the charge. The more serious the charge, the less likely you are to get a good plea bargain.
  • Your criminal history. If you have a criminal history, you are less likely to get a good plea bargain.
  • The strength of the prosecution’s case. If the prosecution has a strong case against you, you are less likely to get a good plea bargain.
  • Your goals. What are your goals in this case? Do you want to avoid jail time? Do you want to minimize the impact on your record?

If you decide to take a plea bargain, it is important to make sure that you understand the terms of the agreement. You should also make sure that you are comfortable with the agreement before you sign it.

How Long Will A Domestic Violence Charge Stay on My Record? Will it Show Up on a Background Check?

A domestic violence charge in Colorado will stay on your record forever, regardless of whether it is dismissed or you are found not guilty. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are able to have the charge sealed, it will not show up on a background check.

In Colorado, a domestic violence charge is considered a violent crime. Violent crimes are not eligible for expungement, which is the process of having a criminal record legally erased. Therefore, a domestic violence charge will always be on your record, even if you are found not guilty.

However, there is a process called sealing that can be used to keep a domestic violence charge from showing up on a background check. Sealing is not the same as expungement, and it does not erase the charge from your record. However, it does make the charge invisible to most employers, landlords, and other organizations that conduct background checks.

To seal a domestic violence charge in Colorado, you must file a petition with the court. The petition must include a number of documents, including the original charging document, a certified copy of the court’s disposition of the case, and a letter from a therapist or counselor stating that you have completed a batterer intervention program.

The court will review your petition and decide whether to grant your request to seal the charge. If the court grants your request, the charge will be sealed and will not show up on a background check. However, the charge will still be on your record, and it can be reopened if you are convicted of another domestic violence offense.

If you have been charged with domestic violence in the state of Colorado, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in court.

Do I Need an Attorney For My Domestic Violence Case?

It is very advisable to hire a criminal attorney to help with your case. A criminal defense attorney can provide invaluable assistance if you are facing a domestic violence charge in several ways:

  • Legal Guidance: A domestic violence defense attorney will explain the charges against you, the potential penalties, and the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options.
  • Investigation: The attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged incident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining the prosecution’s case to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies.
  • Case Strategy: Based on the investigation, the attorney will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
  • Plea Bargaining: If appropriate, the attorney can negotiate with the prosecution for a plea bargain that may lead to reduced charges or a lesser sentence.
  • Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, the defense attorney will represent you in court, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making compelling arguments on your behalf.
  • Challenge Evidence: Your attorney will scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence for any errors, inconsistencies, or violations of your rights, seeking to have potentially harmful evidence suppressed or excluded from the trial.
  • Advocate for Your Rights: Your defense lawyer will protect your rights throughout the legal process, ensuring you are treated fairly and that your constitutional rights are upheld.
  • Domestic Violence Diversion Programs: In some cases, your attorney may explore the possibility of diversion programs, which can allow you to participate in counseling or treatment to address the underlying issues without facing a criminal conviction.
  • Record Sealing or Expungement: If you are eligible, your attorney can help you navigate the process of sealing or expunging your criminal record to mitigate the long-term consequences of the charge.
  • Sentencing Mitigation: If you are convicted, your attorney can present mitigating factors to the court during sentencing to seek a more lenient punishment.
  • Protection Order Modification: If you have a restraining order in place, your attorney can assist in modifying or lifting it, if appropriate.

Facing a domestic violence charge can be overwhelming and emotionally challenging. Our skilled domestic violence defense attorneys will not only provide legal representation but also offer support and guidance throughout the process. They can ensure that your rights are protected and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. If you are facing a domestic violence charge, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to begin building a strong defense.