A violation of a protection order in Adams County, Colorado is a crime that involves disobeying the restrictions set forth in a protection or restraining order. While civil protection orders are often started by an alleged victim, criminal protection orders follow an arrest. Common restrictions that apply in these situations include not contacting a victim or witness, staying away from where they live or work, and prohibited use of alcohol or controlled substances.
7 Things to Know About Restraining Order Violations in Adams County
C.R.S. 18-6-803.5 defines the specific elements of violating a protective order in Colorado. This law prohibits the restrained party from:
- contacting,
- harassing,
- injuring,
- intimidating,
- molesting,
- threatening,
- or touching the protected person
Additionally, going to a location where a protected person is living, working, or visiting can also be seen as a violation. Sometimes specific distances are even notated to protect an alleged victim, witness, or their property.
It is important to note that the court can alter or add to these orders via request of the victim or prosecutor. However, a defendant has the right to apply for modification or dismissal and should contact a skilled defense lawyer to do so.
Consequences of Violating a Protection Order in Colorado
Once a protection order is issued in Colorado, your name is entered into an electronic registry. This allows police to arrest the restrained party should they violate the order in some fashion. Actions listed above are a misdemeanor offense in Thornton, Commerce City, and Brighton. Conviction can result in:
- up to 364 days in county jail,
- fines of up to $1,000
Unfortunately, the above consequences can apply even if the defendant is found innocent of the crime that initiated the protection order in the first place.
Adams County Violation of a Protection Order Attorney
Protection order violations in Adams County can get messy quickly. If you violate an order in place against you, a bad situation can get even worse. Consulting an experienced defense lawyer is critical as you navigate restraining orders in Colorado.
Perhaps contacting the alleged victim or witness was accidental or you misdialed their number. Nonetheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. We will carefully analyze your protection order situation and suggest next steps in forming a strong defense on your behalf.
Don’t talk to police about accusations of violating a protection order – talk to us. 303-731-0719
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