Domestic violence defense
An accusation is not a convictionBut it needs a serious defense, fast.
Colorado treats domestic violence as a sentence enhancer that can attach to many underlying charges, and an arrest often comes with a mandatory protection order that can keep you out of your own home. What you say to police, to the alleged victim, or online in those first days can shape the case.
Our managing attorney is a former prosecutor, and our team includes a former Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Deputy who supports the attorneys’ investigation and case preparation. We know how these cases are investigated and charged, and we examine the evidence, the statements, and the procedure for weaknesses. Then we build a defense around your goals. This page covers criminal defense. If you are a survivor seeking a divorce, see domestic violence and divorce. Related: felony defense and menacing defense.
Immediate Consequences Can Start Fast
The Damage Can Begin Before Court Decides the Case
Domestic violence allegations often trigger immediate legal restrictions, practical disruption, and reputational harm long before the final outcome is determined.
Arrest Risk
Colorado cases often move quickly when police believe probable cause exists.
Protection Orders
Orders can be entered immediately and can reshape daily life fast.
Home Removal
You may be barred from returning home even before the case is resolved.
No Contact
Restrictions can block communication with the alleged victim and others.
Firearm Limits
Allegations and orders can trigger serious firearms consequences.
Not a Standalone Charge, but a Serious Sentence Enhancer
In Colorado, domestic violence is not itself a separate criminal charge. It can attach to other charges when the alleged victim falls within a defined domestic relationship category.
- A spouse or former spouse
- A dating partner or former partner
- A co-parent
- A spouse, former spouse, past or present unmarried partner, or co-parent of the same child
Common Underlying Charges
Even Minor Incidents Can Trigger Serious Exposure
The domestic violence label can be attached to a range of underlying allegations, including lower-level incidents that still create major legal consequences.
- Assault
- Harassment
- Menacing
- Criminal mischief
- Trespassing
Potential Penalties if Convicted
This Is Not a Situation to Take Lightly
A domestic violence conviction can affect your freedom, criminal record, employment, housing, family relationships, and firearm rights long after the court process ends.
Jail or Probation
Convictions can lead to incarceration, supervision, or both.
Treatment Programs
Mandatory domestic violence treatment can be imposed as part of sentencing.
Permanent Record
A conviction can continue to affect reputation and opportunity over time.
Firearm Rights
Firearm restrictions can be severe and long-lasting.
Employment & Housing
Background consequences can affect work opportunities and living arrangements.
Custody & Parenting
Family court consequences can affect parenting time and custody issues.
Defense Strategies for Domestic Violence Cases
Strong Defense Starts With a Careful Review of the Story, Evidence, and Procedure
Every case is unique. The defense has to account for the full context, the quality of the evidence, and whether the allegations hold up under real scrutiny.
- Challenge weak or inconsistent allegations
- Identify evidentiary gaps and context issues
- Protect long-term criminal and family consequences
- Build a strategy tailored to the facts
The Credibility and Consistency of Allegations
When statements change, conflict, or do not align with the surrounding facts, that can become central to the defense.
Lack of Evidence or Conflicting Statements
Some cases move forward despite weak proof. Evidence gaps and contradiction can matter significantly.
Witness Testimony and Context
The surrounding circumstances often matter more than a single simplified version of what happened.
Possible False Accusations or Exaggerated Claims
Some allegations arise in emotionally charged contexts involving separation, conflict, or leverage.
Law Enforcement Procedure and Rights Violations
Police conduct, investigation quality, and procedural issues can become important defense points.
Protection Orders and No-Contact Orders
Restrictions Can Reach Home, Family, and Daily Life Immediately
Domestic violence allegations often come with protection orders that reshape living arrangements, communication, and access long before final resolution.
- Prevent you from returning home
- Limit contact with your children
- Restrict communication with the alleged victim
- Create new criminal exposure if violated
What to Do If You’ve Been Accused
Do Not Make a Difficult Case Harder
What you do after accusation matters. Small mistakes can create new charges, weaken the defense, or complicate later court decisions.
- Do not contact the alleged victim
- Do not violate any protection order
- Do not discuss your case with anyone
- Contact a defense attorney immediately
Protect Your Rights Before the Case Gains More Momentum
FAQ
Common questionsStraight answers about your situation.
Will I be arrested for domestic violence in Colorado?
In many situations, yes. Colorado law often leads to arrest when law enforcement believes probable cause exists.
Can domestic violence charges be dropped?
Only the prosecutor can dismiss charges, but a solid defense can influence how the case is evaluated and resolved.
Can I go back home after being charged?
Not always. Protection orders may prevent return to the home until the court modifies the restrictions.
Don’t see your question? Call (720) 334-7305 for a free consultation.
Keep reading
Related servicesWhere to go next.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Colorado
DUI, domestic violence, felonies, misdemeanors, and more.
Domestic Violence Divorce Attorney in Colorado
Safety-first divorce planning when abuse is part of the marriage.
DWAI Lawyer in Colorado
Defending Driving While Ability Impaired charges.
Felony Defense Attorney in Colorado
Strategic defense for serious felony charges.
Underage DUI Lawyer in Colorado
Defending drivers under 21 charged with UDD or DUI.
Misdemeanor Defense Attorney in Colorado
Protecting your record against misdemeanor charges.
Free Consultation
Free Consultation
Tell us what is happening. We will listen, explain your options in plain language, and give you a clear next step. Your consultation is free and confidential.
This page provides general information about Colorado law, not legal advice for your situation. Every case is different, and past experience does not guarantee a particular outcome.