Denver Orders of Protection Lawyers

When you’re living in fear of a partner or family member, every day can feel heavy. You may be constantly calculating your next move, second-guessing yourself, or wondering how things got this far. Part of you knows something has to change. Another part is terrified of what will happen if you try.

If you are facing this reality, please know that support is available. You do not have to handle this frightening situation by yourself. The Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group has a dedicated presence in the Denver metropolitan area, and our attorneys are ready to stand between you and the person threatening your safety.

What Constitutes Domestic Violence Under Colorado Law?

Colorado takes a broad stance on what behaviors qualify as domestic abuse. While many people associate domestic violence solely with physical acts like hitting or choking, the law recognizes that abuse encompasses much more.

Under state statutes, domestic violence includes any act or threatened act of violence against someone with whom the aggressor has an intimate relationship. This definition extends to crimes against property, such as breaking your phone or destroying your belongings, when those acts are used to coerce, control, punish, or intimidate you.

In Colorado, an “intimate relationship” is defined specifically to include:

• Current or former spouses
• Unmarried couples who are currently dating or have dated in the past
• Parents who share a child, regardless of whether they were ever married or lived together

How Can a Civil Protection Order Keep Me Safe?

A Civil Protection Order, often referred to as a restraining order, creates a legal barrier between you and the abuser. When a judge issues this order, it mandates that the restrained person stop specific behaviors immediately.

Depending on your specific circumstances, a Colorado judge can order the abuser to:

• Stop all contact with you, including phone calls, text messages, and emails.
• Stay a specific distance away from you, your home, your workplace, or your children’s school.
• Vacate the family home so you can remain there safely.
• Refrain from harming or threatening any animals owned or kept by you or your children.
• Surrender any firearms or ammunition in their possession.

The court may also make temporary decisions regarding the care and control of your children to protect them from exposure to violence.

What Is the Process for Getting a Protection Order?

The process usually begins with a request for a Temporary Civil Protection Order. You can file this request in the county where the abuse occurred, where you live, or where the abuser lives. If the judge believes you are in immediate danger based on your complaint, they can grant this temporary order without the abuser being present.

However, this temporary order is only the beginning. To make the protection last, the court will schedule a hearing for a Permanent Protection Order. At this hearing, the abuser has the right to appear and contest your claims.

Let Us Fight for Your Safety

While you are permitted to file for a protection order on your own, the legal system is complex. The permanent hearing requires you to follow specific rules of evidence and procedure. If the abuser hires an attorney and you do not, you may find yourself at a significant disadvantage.

Our team at the Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group understands the specific challenges women and mothers face in these courtrooms. We handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing. If you or your children are in danger, reach out to our office today. Let us help you secure the legal protection you deserve.