Consequences Of A Domestic Violence Conviction

When someone is convicted of domestic violence in Colorado, the consequences can be significant and multifaceted, affecting various aspects of their life.

Colorado law defines domestic violence as an act or threatened act of violence upon a person with whom the aggressor is or has been involved in an intimate relationship. It also includes any other crime against a person, or property, including animals, when used as a method of coercion, control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge directed against a person with whom the aggressor is or has been involved in an intimate relationship.

Domestic Violence Conviction Legal Consequences

Criminal Penalties

The specific penalties for a domestic violence conviction vary widely depending on the severity of the offense, whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, and the defendant’s criminal history. Generally, consequences can include:

• Jail or Prison Time: Even for a first offense, jail time is a possibility. For more severe offenses or for individuals with prior convictions, prison sentences can be significantly longer.
• Fines: Convicted individuals may be required to pay fines, which can vary depending on the nature of the offense.
• Probation: Probation is a common sentence for domestic violence convictions, which may include regular check-ins with a probation officer, participation in domestic violence treatment programs, and adherence to specific court orders.
• Protection Orders: Courts often issue protection orders (restraining orders) that prohibit the convicted individual from contacting the victim. Violating a protection order can result in additional criminal charges.

Mandatory Treatment Programs

Colorado law requires individuals convicted of domestic violence to undergo a domestic violence treatment program and evaluation at their own expense. The program is designed to address and correct violent behavior and typically includes counseling and educational components.

Other Consequences

Beyond the legal penalties, a conviction for domestic violence carries several other potentially severe consequences:

• Employment: A domestic violence conviction can negatively impact current employment and future job prospects, especially in fields that require background checks or involve working with vulnerable populations.
• Housing: Convictions can affect housing opportunities, as some landlords may be hesitant to rent to individuals with a violent criminal record.
• Firearm Ownership: Federal law prohibits individuals convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors or felonies from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. This is enforced through the Lautenberg Amendment to the Gun Control Act of 1968.
• Child Custody: A domestic violence conviction can significantly impact child custody arrangements, potentially leading to supervised visitation or loss of custody rights.
• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, a domestic violence conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation, inadmissibility, or denial of naturalization.

A Domestic Violence Conviction Can Be Devastating

The consequences of a domestic violence conviction in Colorado are designed to penalize offenders, protect victims, and address the root causes of domestic violence through mandatory treatment programs.

The legal, personal, and social repercussions of such a conviction underscore the seriousness with which Colorado law treats domestic violence offenses. If you are facing facing domestic violence charges in Colorado, call Jeremy Loew today for your free consultation.

The consequences of a domestic violence conviction can be devastating – don’t go it alone. Get the best legal defense in Colorado Springs if you’ve been accused of domestic violence.