At Liberty Law Center, our Colorado Springs domestic violence lawyer defends people accused of serious domestic violence crimes. Under Colorado law (C.R.S. 18-6-800.3), domestic violence includes any act or threatened act of violence against someone in an intimate relationship. The law also covers property damage and emotional distress connected to such acts.
Each year, more than 20,000 domestic violence cases are filed statewide, according to the Colorado Judicial Branch. These charges can bring jail time, restraining orders, and a permanent criminal record. If you face domestic violence charges, act fast to protect your rights and reputation.
Our Colorado Springs Domestic Violence Lawyer Fights for Your Rights
At Liberty Law Center, we know that domestic violence accusations can destroy families, jobs, and futures. Our experienced domestic violence attorneys defend people facing false or exaggerated claims. We build strong cases, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and make sure your legal rights are protected at every step.
We also understand how emotional these cases can be for clients and family members. If you are arrested or served with a mandatory protection order, contact us right away for legal guidance. Acting early allows us to begin your defense and limit the damage to your life.
Why Choose Liberty Law Center for Your Domestic Violence Defense
Clients across Colorado Springs trust Liberty Law Center because of our proven experience and personal care. Our criminal defense law firm has decades of success defending people in domestic violence cases. We understand how local courts and district attorneys handle these sensitive matters. Our goal is to protect your freedom, family, and future.
Here’s why clients choose us:
- Over 30 years of combined criminal defense experience.
- In-depth knowledge of Colorado domestic violence laws and court procedures.
- Personalized legal strategies based on your situation and evidence.
- Focus on protecting your record, reputation, and legal rights.
We work to minimize criminal penalties or, whenever possible, seek dismissal. You can rely on our legal professionals to provide strong representation with compassion and respect.
The Domestic Violence Laws in Colorado
Domestic violence laws in Colorado cover more than physical harm. They include emotional abuse, threats, and damage to property used to control or intimidate another person. Understanding these laws is critical when facing a domestic violence charge.
What Qualifies as Domestic Violence
Under Colorado law, domestic violence involves acts or threatened acts of violence against someone in an intimate relationship. This includes spouses, former partners, cohabitants, or people who share children. Even if no physical injury occurs, actions like harassment or stalking can still count as domestic violence offenses. We help clients understand the legal process and defend against unfair or false accusations.
Types of Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence charges can involve several criminal offenses depending on the alleged incident. We handle each case carefully and develop defenses based on the facts.
Common domestic violence charges include:
- Assault or causing bodily injury.
- Criminal mischief or property damage.
- Harassment or emotional abuse.
- Stalking or unwanted contact.
- Violating a mandatory protection order.
- Child abuse or custody disputes linked to domestic allegations.
We fight to prove your innocence, show evidence of self-defense, and prevent a domestic violence conviction that could affect your future.
The Role of Mandatory Arrest Laws
Colorado is a mandatory arrest state for domestic violence cases. This means that police officers must arrest a person if they believe domestic violence occurred, even without clear proof or the alleged victim’s request. This often leads to arrests based only on statements or emotional disputes. We step in quickly to challenge these claims and guide you through the criminal justice system. Our defense attorneys ensure your side of the story is heard and that your legal rights are protected.
At Liberty Law Center, we stand by those accused of domestic violence in Colorado Springs. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced domestic violence lawyer who will fight for your future and freedom.
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Colorado Springs
At Liberty Law Center, we understand how severe the penalties for domestic violence can be. In Colorado Springs, punishment depends on the criminal charge, prior convictions, and the facts of the alleged incident. Domestic violence penalties can include jail time, probation, and a permanent record. The law also adds a domestic violence enhancement to many criminal charges, which increases the legal consequences. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys work to minimize these penalties and protect your future.
Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Charges
A misdemeanor domestic violence charge can bring serious punishment, even for a first offense.
Possible penalties include:
- Up to one year in jail.
- Mandatory domestic abuse counseling or anger management classes.
- Fines and probation.
- Community service or no-contact orders.
We focus on protecting your legal rights and reputation. Our legal representation aims to reduce charges or, when possible, seek alternatives such as probation or deferred sentences.
Felony Domestic Violence Charges
Felony charges are filed when the alleged act involves serious injury, sexual assault, or prior convictions. These cases carry harsher penalties and long-term consequences.
Potential outcomes include:
- Long prison sentences in state facilities.
- Large fines and extended probation.
- Loss of the right to possess firearms.
- Permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing.
Our experienced criminal defense lawyers know how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and negotiate plea bargains to reduce penalties.
Protective and Restraining Orders
Courts often issue protective or restraining orders after a domestic violence arrest. These orders limit your contact with the alleged victim and sometimes restrict access to your home or children.
If violated, these orders can lead to:
- Additional criminal charges.
- Jail time or bond revocation.
- Stricter terms during court proceedings.
We help clients understand and comply with these orders while protecting their parental rights and family relationships.
The Domestic Violence Legal Process
Understanding the legal process for domestic violence helps clients make informed decisions. Every step affects the outcome of your case, from the arrest to the trial or negotiation. Our experienced criminal defense team guides you through each stage of the legal system to ensure your rights are protected.
Arrest and Booking
Colorado is a mandatory arrest state for domestic violence. Law enforcement agencies must arrest anyone they believe committed domestic violence or caused imminent harm. After arrest, you will be booked and held until the first court appearance. We advise clients to remain silent until they speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Initial Court Appearance and Bond
Your first appearance, known as an arraignment, occurs within a few days after arrest. During this hearing, the judge explains your charges and sets bond conditions. We work to secure reasonable bond terms so you can return home while your case moves forward.
Protective Orders and Hearings
After the arrest, the court will issue a mandatory protection order. This order may prevent you from contacting the alleged victim or visiting shared property. We help clients request modifications when necessary, especially in child custody or family law situations. Violating these orders can result in new criminal charges.
Trial or Negotiated Resolution
If the case goes to trial, both sides present evidence and witness testimony. In some cases, plea bargains may offer a better outcome, such as reduced penalties or probation. We carefully explain all options and prepare a strong defense for every client, whether in trial or negotiation.
Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges
Every domestic violence case is unique. The right defense depends on the evidence, witness statements, and the nature of the alleged incident. Our defense lawyers use proven strategies to fight false claims and protect your freedom.
False Allegations or Misunderstandings
Many domestic violence allegations come from heated arguments or emotional conflicts. Sometimes, one party is falsely accused to gain an advantage in a custody dispute or family law case. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and expose false or exaggerated claims.
Lack of Evidence or Witness Credibility
The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak or inconsistent testimony from the alleged victim can help our defense.
We focus on:
- Missing physical evidence or unclear injury reports.
- Conflicting statements by witnesses or police officers.
- Gaps in the prosecution’s timeline or documentation.
We use these weaknesses to protect your rights and credibility.
Self-Defense or Mutual Confrontation
Not all physical confrontations qualify as domestic violence. In some cases, clients acted in self-defense or tried to prevent harm. We present evidence supporting your actions, proving you acted out of protection, not aggression. Our goal is to ensure the court understands the full story behind the alleged incident.
Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
A domestic violence conviction can create lifelong consequences. Beyond jail or fines, it affects personal and professional opportunities. Under Colorado law, a conviction cannot be sealed or removed from your record.
Long-term consequences include:
- Loss of the right to possess firearms.
- Difficulty finding employment or housing.
- Child custody and visitation restrictions.
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs.
At Liberty Law Center, we fight to prevent these outcomes. Our law office works to reduce charges, negotiate favorable plea bargains, or seek dismissal when possible. We use our experience in El Paso County and local courts to protect your future and provide trusted legal representation during every stage of the legal proceedings.
How Liberty Law Center Builds a Strong Defense
At Liberty Law Center, we understand how much is at stake when you face a domestic violence charge. We carefully review every detail of your criminal case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims. Our legal team examines police reports, photographs, and medical records to see if the evidence supports the accusation. We also interview witnesses, check for inconsistencies, and challenge false or exaggerated statements.
Our defense lawyers focus on protecting your rights, relationships, and reputation. We know how a single charge can damage your family and career. Whether the case involves emotional harm or physical abuse, we fight for fairness and truth. Our goal is to build a defense that gives you the best chance for dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable resolution in court.
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders
Protective orders are common in domestic violence cases and can disrupt your home, work, and family life. These orders are issued quickly and may prevent you from returning home or seeing your loved ones. We help clients understand these orders and guide them through the legal process to regain stability.
Temporary Protection Orders (TPOs)
A temporary protection order is usually issued right after an arrest. It restricts contact with the alleged victim and may block access to your home or children. Even minor violations can lead to more criminal charges. We act fast to review the order, explain your rights, and prepare for the next court hearing.
Permanent Protection Orders (PPOs)
After the first hearing, a judge decides whether to make the order permanent. A PPO can last months or even years, depending on the case.
We help clients by:
- Contesting false claims and presenting witness testimony.
- Showing that you do not pose a threat or risk of imminent harm.
- Working to modify or lift the order through proper court proceedings.
We know how these orders can affect your family and freedom, and we work to protect both.
What to Do After Being Arrested for Domestic Violence
Being arrested for domestic violence can be frightening, but how you act next is critical. At Liberty Law Center, we help clients take immediate steps to protect their rights. You have the right to remain silent and to speak with a defense lawyer before answering police questions.
Here’s what you should do:
- Stay calm and do not contact the accuser. Avoid any communication that could be seen as harassment.
- Follow all court orders. Violating them can make your situation worse.
- Gather evidence or witness information. Details about what happened can help your defense.
- Contact Liberty Law Center right away. Early legal action helps us build a strong case before court proceedings begin.
We understand how stressful this process can be. Acting fast gives us the best chance to protect your record and defend your freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can domestic violence charges be dropped in Colorado?
Only the prosecutor can dismiss charges, even if the alleged victim changes their story or recants.
Will I go to jail after a domestic violence arrest?
Most arrests require at least one night in jail until you appear before a judge for bond review.
How does a protective order affect my rights?
A protection order can restrict your ability to contact the alleged victim, enter your home, or possess firearms.
Can domestic violence charges affect child custody?
Yes. Courts consider domestic violence allegations during child custody and visitation decisions under family law.
What happens if I violate a protective order?
Violating an order can result in new criminal charges, jail time, and stricter restrictions.
Will a domestic violence conviction stay on my record?
Yes. A domestic violence conviction stays on your criminal history permanently and cannot be sealed under Colorado law.
Contact Our Colorado Springs Domestic Violence Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you face domestic violence charges, don’t wait to get legal help. At Liberty Law Center, we have decades of experience defending clients across El Paso County and beyond. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the legal system and how to protect your rights.
We handle every criminal case with care and respect, whether it involves emotional conflict or physical abuse. Our goal is to defend your freedom, your record, and your reputation. Call our law office today or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Let our experienced criminal defense lawyers guide you through this difficult time and fight for the best possible outcome.