You aren't a criminal, but you've been accused of domestic violence.
What comes next?

If you have been accused of domestic violence, you may be feeling a range of overwhelming emotions. Confusion about how these allegations arose. Hurt that your partner would make unfounded accusations against you. Fear of the future and how these accusations could alter your life.

Don't spiral, but don't wait to contact an attorney, either. Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele of Steele Law, P.C., provides empathetic and aggressive representation for clients accused of domestic violence or charged with related violent crimes.

Speak with us today to discuss your next steps.

Understanding Colorado Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence is not charged as a standalone criminal offense in Colorado; rather, it functions as a sentencing enhancement or aggravator. If you were found to have committed domestic violence, the penalties for an underlying offense could be increased due to this aggravating factor.

Colorado law defines domestic violence as an act or threatened act upon a person with whom you are or have been involved in an intimate relationship. It can also include crimes against property or animals, especially when used as a method of power and control.

"Intimate relationships" can refer to relationships with anyone you have lived with, been romantically involved with, or shared children with.

Domestic violence can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, harassment, stalking, strangulation, or related acts. Stalking, harassment, and emotional abuse may have taken place in person or via digital communication methods. One element of psychological abuse can also include economic abuse, or controlling a partner's financial resources.

Criminal charges that sometimes accompany the domestic violence sentencing enhancement include:

• • Assault
  • Harassment
  • Child abuse
  • Violation of protective orders
  • False imprisonment
  • Criminal mischief

If you have been accused of domestic violence and are facing other criminal charges, now is the time to contact a criminal defense lawyer who has experience in this practice area.

Unique Considerations for Domestic Violence Charges in Colorado

Colorado has a few unique processes for handling domestic and sexual violence charges. Understanding these considerations can help you better prepare for your case. Our attorney will also ensure that you have all of the relevant information to make informed decisions about the legal process.

• • Mandatory arrest: Colorado officers are required to arrest an alleged domestic violence perpetrator if they find probable cause that domestic violence has occurred when responding to a scene.
  • "No-drop" policy: Once charges have been filed against an alleged perpetrator, the decision to pursue or dismiss charges falls on the prosecutors, even if the victim decides to withdraw charges.
  • Enhanced penalties for offenses: Being convicted of domestic violence on top of other violent charges can lead to increased sentencing severity. Having an experienced attorney on your side from day one is key.
  • Protective orders: The court automatically issues a mandatory protection order after domestic violence charges are filed. Violating this order could lead to additional charges or penalties.

Domestic violence charges in Colorado are nuanced, and neglecting to understand their complexities can leave you vulnerable to additional or more severe penalties. Before taking any other actions after receiving charges, contact an attorney for legal guidance.

Possible Defenses Against Accusations of Domestic Abuse in Colorado

A strong domestic violence defense may involve refuting accusations of violence altogether or proving that actions were justified. Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele has 25+ years of experience defending clients facing domestic violence charges. Any of these defenses may help strengthen your case, depending on the circumstances:

• • Self-defense: You may claim that you were acting in self-defense against a partner who was exhibiting violent behavior toward you or threatening violent actions. You may also be able to claim that you were defending another family member or child who was at risk of physical harm.
  • Victim dishonesty: In some cases, alleged victims of domestic violence accuse partners of abusive behaviors that were not actually present. Your attorney may look for holes in the abused person's story or a lack of other evidence of abuse.
  • Lack of intimate relationship: Your attorney could also help you challenge the charges by proving that your relationship with the alleged victim does not meet the definition of an "intimate relationship." In this case, the domestic violence statute may not apply.
  • Procedural issues: Sometimes, defending domestic violence charges involves challenging the way officers handled the arrest and subsequent legal process. If officers arrested you without probable cause, failed to read your Miranda Rights, or made other procedural errors, your attorney may be able to fight to have certain types of evidence dropped in your case.

Representation for Cases Involving Same-Sex Relationships

Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele represents all clients charged with domestic violence regardless of sexual orientation, but she has specific experience with cases involving same-sex couples.

We especially understand the unique considerations of domestic violence cases involving lesbian couples compared to heterosexual relationships. If you are facing accusations of sexual abuse or physical violence against a same-sex partner, reach out to Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele today.

Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele Supports Clients Accused of Intimate Partner Violence

Are you facing accusations of domestic violence and related violent charges in Englewood, CO? Steele Law, P.C., provides experienced representation and legal guidance.

We understand that facing criminal charges can be scary and emotionally draining. Let us fight for your rights and protect your way of life.

I value building long-term relationships with my clients, and your future success is extremely important to me.

You may picture criminal defense attorneys as confrontational and abrupt. I take a different approach—my focus is on helping you gain peace of mind, knowing your case is in experienced, dedicated hands.