Domestic Violence accusations in Greeley and Weld County can turn your life upside down in an instant. One phone call can lead to an arrest, a mandatory protection order, and serious criminal charges—even if no physical violence occurred. If you’ve been accused of Domestic Violence in Colorado, it’s important to understand that this is not just a personal issue, it’s a legal one with harsh consequences. At O’Malley Law Office, we’ve helped hundreds of clients across Weld County fight Domestic Violence charges and protect their rights. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Domestic Violence Under Colorado Law? A Weld County DV Attorney Explains
In Weld County, Colorado, Domestic Violence is not a standalone charge. Instead, it’s a sentence enhancer that applies to crimes committed against someone with whom you have (or had) an intimate relationship.
Under C.R.S. § 18-6-800.3, this includes:
- Current or former spouses
- Dating partners
- Co-parents (regardless of relationship status)
- Live-in partners or former cohabitants
If the alleged victim falls into one of those categories, and the offense involves violence, threats, coercion, control, intimidation, or revenge, Domestic Violence can be attached to almost any criminal charge—such as Assault, Harassment, Stalking, or even property damage (Criminal Mischief.)
Windsor DV Defense Attorney: Mandatory Arrest Law in Domestic Violence Cases
One of the most shocking aspects of Colorado Domestic Violence cases is the mandatory arrest law.
If law enforcement has probable cause to believe Domestic Violence occurred, they are required to make an arrest, even if:
- The accuser doesn’t want charges filed
- There are no injuries
- It was a verbal argument that escalated
Once you’re arrested, you cannot post bond immediately. You must remain in custody until you appear before a judge—usually within 24 hours—and a mandatory protection order is issued.
What Happens After a Firestone Domestic Violence Arrest?
After you’re arrested for a Domestic Violence-related offense in Firestone, here’s what typically happens:
- Mandatory protection order is issued (no contact with the alleged victim)
- Court date is scheduled
- Prosecutor may proceed, even if the victim doesn’t want to press charges
- Domestic Violence treatment program may be required if convicted or during probation
- Firearm restrictions automatically apply
- Permanent criminal record, if convicted
What Are the Consequences of a Weld County Domestic Violence Conviction?
Even a misdemeanor Domestic Violence conviction can lead to serious consequences in Weld County:
- Jail time
- Probation with mandatory treatment
- Permanent criminal record
- Loss of firearm rights under federal law
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Increased penalties for future charges
If you’re convicted of Domestic Violence more than once, you can be labeled a habitual Domestic Violence offender and face felony charges, even for minor incidents.
Can My Johnstown Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped?
In most Johnstown DV cases, only the prosecutor, not the alleged victim, can drop the charges. Even if the victim recants or refuses to cooperate, the case may still move forward.
That’s why it’s essential to have a skilled defense lawyer early in the process to:
- Present mitigating evidence
- Negotiate for reduced or dismissed charges
- Advocate for alternative sentencing (like counseling or diversion)
- Fight for an acquittal at trial if necessary
Why You Need a Colorado Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
Domestic Violence cases move fast and the consequences are often permanent. O’Malley Law Office, we know how Weld County DAs approach these cases, and we know how to fight back. When you hire us, we will:
- Protect your rights at every stage
- Work to modify or lift the protection order (when appropriate)
- Develop a strong legal defense strategy
- Negotiate with prosecutors or take your case to trial
If you or someone you love has been charged with a Domestic Violence offense, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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