Domestic violence is a frequently seen sentence enhancer in Aurora, Centennial, and Englewood. Consistently, this charge is tacked on to harassment or assault charges involving disputes between people that are dating, married, or parents of the same child. However, this add-on can apply to any criminal charges if the violence was meant to coerce, punish, or control another person. Earlier this month, local police took a man into custody after he allegedly threatened his wife and daughter with a weapon. Charges or accusations of this nature require contacting a skilled domestic violence defense attorney right away.

What is Considered Domestic Violence in Colorado?

C.R.S. 18-6-800.3 addresses domestic violence behaviors in the state of Colorado. This sentence enhancer can apply to situations where a person:

• commits or threatens an act of violence,
• upon someone they are / were in an intimate relationship with

This also includes crimes against a person, property, or animal that coerce, control, punish, intimidate, or seek revenge upon someone. The term intimate relationship covers a wide spectrum of interactions including:

• spouses,
• former spouses,
• partners,
• girlfriends / boyfriends,
• exes,
• parents of the same child

What Are the Consequences of Domestic Violence in Arapahoe County?

There are many penalties for domestic violence situations in Arapahoe County, even from the start of an accusation. Colorado is a mandatory arrest state in reference to DV, meaning law enforcement has to arrest suspects even if the alleged victim doesn't desire this or isn't cooperating. Additionally, domestic violence charges can lead to:

• months in county jail,
• fines,
• restraining orders (placing limitations on contact / living situations),
• domestic violence treatment program,
• prohibited firearm ownership,

More than three domestic violence convictions can result in a habitual domestic violence offender label, a class 5 felony. Those placed on a protection order also walk a fine line in following its restrictions. Violating such an order is another misdemeanor offense and can lead to additional time in jail and more fines.

Arapahoe County Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Charges of domestic violence are serious and require contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney early on. We examine each and every element of DV charges on behalf of our clients and form a strong defense, all while prioritizing the best possible outcome. To help your case, we recommend that you:

1. Not provide statements of any kind to law enforcement,
2. Refrain from discussing your situation with friends or via text, email, and social media,
3. Contact Arapahoe County's top criminal defense attorneys

Perhaps neighbors misinterpreted the situation or your ex is trying to gain some type of advantage. Nevertheless, having a strategic defense lawyer by your side is essential in all domestic violence situations.

If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence charges, be smart. Contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

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