Domestic Violence

The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani represents individuals charged with domestic violence offenses. In Colorado, the state considers the following to be acts of domestic violence:

• violent acts committed by one person against another when both parties are in or have been in an intimate relationship;
• threats of violence made by one person against another when both parties are in or have been in an intimate relationship; and
• crimes or municipal ordinance violations against a person or property, when used by one person to coerce, control, punish, intimidate or seek revenge against another when both parties are in or have been in an intimate relationship.

A variety of allegations can result in domestic violence charges, ranging from harassment, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, and burglary to overt threats and assault. If you are being prosecuted for a domestic violence charge, the court will issue a Mandatory Protection Order, more commonly known as a restraining order, as a condition for your release from jail. This Order will require you to stay away from the alleged victim’s home, school and job as well as anywhere else they are likely to be. The Order will also require you to avoid contacting the alleged victim directly, including by telephone, letters, email, or text messages, as well as indirectly, such as through a friend or family member.

We recognize the seriousness that a domestic violence charge will have on you, your family and your future. The penalties for a domestic violence conviction are very severe. Typically the prosecution seeks jail time in addition to mandatory probation sentences, lengthy domestic violence treatment programs and steep fines.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

Generally, after a conviction enters, the court can and will sentence an individual to some combination of a fine, probation and jail time. When a charge is enhanced by the domestic violence designation, the court will also order the defendant to undergo a domestic violence treatment evaluation & program. The evaluation determines the amount of treatment that is ordered. There is an additional fee for the evaluation.  The treatment program typically involves a program of classes that spans several months and there are fees for each class. Furthermore, the judge may also deny a defendant from returning to his or her home if the victim also lives there.

There are several collateral consequences of a domestic violence conviction that may never be addressed at court. A domestic violence conviction may be brought up against an individual during a divorce, child custody or child support proceeding. Additionally, a domestic violence conviction also carries a threat of deportation for non-citizens, and may affect your current and future employment prospects. Finally, your right to own or possess a firearm may be lost forever. Do not accept an offer from the prosecutor without first being fully advised of your rights.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case