Domestic violence assault is an impactful criminal charge in Lakewood, Arvada, and Golden. Being accused of causing bodily injury to a current or former significant other can lead to your arrest, a restraining order, and end in stiff penalties. However, just because you’ve been charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Our skilled domestic violence lawyers understand that relationships are complex. The alleged victim might not be telling the truth or a bystander may have misunderstood the situation. If allegations of domestic violence assault have come your way, exercise your right to remain silent and contact our highly-rated criminal defense team today.
Colorado DV Assault and Intimate Relationships
It is important to understand that in DV assault cases, assault is the actual criminal charge and domestic violence is a sentencing enhancement. CRS 18-6-800.3 and CRS 18-6-801 specifically address offenses involving family relations and define domestic violence, alongside intimate relationships. Police can pursue domestic violence assault charges in Jefferson County if they believe you:
- intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly,
- caused bodily injury,
- to someone you’ve had an intimate relationship with
The bodily injury itself doesn’t have to be serious for charges to apply. Causing any physical pain, illness, or impairment can be considered assault in Jefferson County and throughout Colorado. Arguments or physical altercations between spouses, former spouses, past or present unmarried couples, or parents of the same child are often the precursor to DV assault allegations.
How Bad is Domestic Violence Assault in Jefferson County?
Up front, Colorado is a mandatory arrest state. This means law enforcement must arrest the suspect regardless of the alleged victim’s wishes. Next, a restrictive protection order is implemented preventing contact between the two parties and prohibiting the defendant from drinking alcohol. As the case continues through the court process (often months), this restraining order remains in place. A conviction for the underlying assault charge depends on the severity of the injury, type of assault, and the defendant’s criminal history. On top of the assault penalties, other consequences can include:
- successful completion of a DV treatment program,
- an extension of the protection order,
- alcohol / drug counseling,
- prohibited firearm possession + ownership
How Do I Fight DV Assault Accusations?
First and foremost, we recommend you exercise your right to remain silent when police start asking questions. Don’t provide them with statements. Next, contact an experienced domestic violence assault attorney for a free, confidential consultation. Perhaps you were acting in self-defense, defense of someone else, or there was a lack of intent to cause injury. We have decades of combined experience successfully navigating criminal charges involving DV in and around Denver, Lakewood, Littleton, Arvada, Thornton, Broomfield, and Westminster. During your free case review, our strategic criminal lawyers will:
- hear your side of the story,
- carefully evaluate your unique case,
- suggest next steps in your defense
We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing domestic violence accusations throughout Jefferson, Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas County.
Talk to us about domestic violence assault – not the police. 303-830-0880
Photo by Anete Lusina
