Domestic violence is a serious criminal offense that can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a criminal record. If you have been charged with domestic violence in Colorado, you must understand the seriousness of the charges and take the necessary steps to defend yourself.
In this blog post, we will provide tips on fighting domestic violence charges in Colorado from the perspective of a criminal defense attorney.
Understand the Charges
The first step in fighting domestic violence charges is to understand the charges against you. In Colorado, domestic violence is defined as an act or threatened act of violence upon a person with whom the accused has or has had an intimate relationship. The intimate relationship can include spouses, former spouses, dating partners, former dating partners, family members, or individuals who live together.
If you have been charged with domestic violence, you must understand the specifics of the charges against you. The prosecutor must prove that you committed an act of violence or threatened violence against a person with whom you have or have had an intimate relationship. Your defense strategy will depend on the specific facts of your case.
Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
When facing domestic violence charges, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is crucial. A skilled attorney will help you understand the charges against you, develop a defense strategy, and navigate the legal system.
Your attorney will investigate the facts of your case, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to build a strong defense. They will negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or obtain a plea deal.
Understand Your Rights
When charged with domestic violence, it is essential to understand your rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You must exercise these rights to protect yourself and your case.
It is also essential to understand that you are innocent until proven guilty. The prosecutor is burdened to prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney will work to create reasonable doubt in the minds of the judge and jury.
Maintain a Good Relationship with Your Attorney
Your attorney is your advocate and will work hard to defend you against domestic violence charges. You must maintain a good relationship with your attorney and work closely with them throughout the legal process.
Be honest with your attorney and provide them with all the facts of your case. Your attorney needs to know everything to build the best defense for you. Follow your attorney’s advice and attend all court hearings and meetings.
Gather Evidence in Your Favor
You and your attorney must gather evidence in your favor to build a strong defense. This evidence can include witness statements, medical records, police reports, and physical evidence. Your attorney will use this evidence to create reasonable doubt and defend you against the charges.
It is essential to remember that any evidence gathered illegally may not be admissible in court. Your attorney will ensure that all evidence is gathered legally and ethically.
Consider Counseling or Treatment
If you have been charged with domestic violence, it may be beneficial to consider counseling or treatment. This can show the court that you are taking the charges seriously and working to improve your behavior.
Your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal that includes counseling or treatment instead of jail time. This can help reduce the severity of the charges and minimize the consequences.
If you have been charged with domestic violence in Colorado, it is essential to take the charges seriously and understand the severity of the consequences. However, it is also important to remember that you have rights, and with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can fight these charges and protect your future.
Domestic violence charges can be overwhelming, but you can overcome them with the right approach and support. Remember to take the charges seriously and work closely with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand the charges, develop a defense strategy, and navigate the legal system.
It is also important to consider counseling or treatment, which can demonstrate to the court that you are taking the charges seriously and working to improve your behavior. By following these tips and working with a skilled attorney, you can fight domestic violence charges and protect your future.
Remember that you have rights, and you are innocent until proven guilty. By maintaining a good relationship with your attorney and being honest and open about the facts of your case, you can build a strong defense and overcome these charges.
About the Author:
Kimberly Diego is a criminal defense attorney in Denver practicing at The Law Office of Kimberly Diego. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and her law degree at the University of Colorado. She was named one of Super Lawyers’ “Rising Stars of 2012 & 2019-2022” and a “Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Colorado” for 2012-2022 by The National Trial Lawyers. Both honors are limited to a small percentage of practicing attorneys in each state. Additionally, Expertise names her to its lists of the 25 Best Denver DUI Lawyers and 21 Best Denver Criminal Defense Lawyers, both in 2020-2022. Ms. Diego has also been recognized for her work in domestic violence cases.
