Domestic violence charges can negatively alter the course of your life and lead to long-term complications with your family, career, and personal endeavors. I know that this is a confusing and even scary time, as you could face severe penalties if you are convicted. I will thoroughly review your case and determine the best course of action to protect your rights and safeguard your future.
At Geoff Heim, Attorney, LLC, I have more than 30 years of experience as a Colorado Springs domestic violence lawyer. I recognize that each criminal defense case is unique and demands individualized attention. I have successfully represented thousands of clients against various criminal charges over the last decade, so you can count on me to provide the aggressive defense that you need at this time.
Contact our office today to speak with our experienced criminal defense attorney, Geoff Heim, during a FREE consultation!
Colorado Has Mandatory Arrest Laws For Domestic Violence
Often, domestic violence charges are made based only on the accusation of one person. All that an officer needs to charge someone with domestic violence is minimal evidence of an altercation, such as a bruise or cut, and a witness statement. And, because an officer must make a judgment call about who is at fault, someone acting in self-defense can be erroneously charged with domestic violence.
Colorado domestic violence laws also state that an officer must arrest the suspect in a domestic violence case “without undue delay”—meaning that, if the suspect is there, the officer must arrest them. The arrested person will be booked and cannot be given a bond until the victim has been informed of the bond hearing. If you were falsely accused and subsequently arrested, you need to contact a Colorado Springs domestic violence attorney immediately.
Types of Penalties You May Face for Domestic Violence
If you are arrested for domestic violence in the state of Colorado, the severity of the resulting penalties will depend on the nature of the offense.
There are varying degrees of domestic violence crimes, ranging from harassment or stalking to second-degree assault, and the penalties are as follows:
Harassment: Shoving, kicking, or even touching another person could result in arrest, anonymously via phone calls or text messages
- Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and $750 in fines.
Third-Degree Assault: Knowingly or recklessly inflict bodily harm upon another person; hurt another person through the use of a deadly weapon
- Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 18 months in jail and $5,000 in fines.
Stalking: Directly or indirectly, through another person, make a credible threat and repeatedly attempt to communicate with or surveil that person
- Class 5 felony punishable by up to three years in prison and $100,000 in fines.
Second-Degree Assault: Intentionally cause bodily injury or harm another person through a deadly weapon; recklessly cause bodily injury with a deadly weapon
- Class 4 felony punishable by up to six years in prison and $500,000 in fines.
If you are facing charges for any of the above, call to discuss the details of your case with our Colorado Springs domestic violence attorney today!
Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped?
Once someone has been arrested for domestic violence in Colorado Springs, only the prosecuting attorney can decide whether or not the case will go to trial. Even if the victim decides that they want to drop the charges, the case cannot be dismissed on this fact alone. This is done so that the victim in a domestic violence case cannot be coerced or threatened into dropping the charges.
Since domestic violence cases are also considered to be a matter of victims’ rights, the victim will be able to exercise certain rights. This includes being able to consult with the District Attorney before any plea agreements are offered or before the defendant’s bond is addressed. They also have the right to speak at the sentencing hearing and to be notified when the defendant will be released.
We have Represented Individuals Charged with the Following Offenses in Colorado Springs:
Call Now for a Free Consultation With Our Colorado Springs Domestic Violence Attorney
Working with the right Colorado Springs domestic violence lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Our attorneys will use their experience and knowledge of the Colorado legal system to ensure that you receive the best possible resolution. For more information on how my firm can help you, contact my office as soon as possible.
Related Links:
What You Need to Know About Domestic Violence Arrests in Colorado
If you are seeking representation from a Colorado Springs experienced criminal defense attorney, contact our firm by completing an online case evaluation form now or call us at (719) 636-8955!