Denver Orders of Protection Attorney

The Process of Filing a Protection Order in Denver

The essential steps typically involved when filing in Denver include:

• Gather documentation: This crucial first step involves collecting any evidence supporting your need for protection. This might include police reports, medical records, threatening messages (texts, emails, voicemails), photos of injuries, or witness statements. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
• Complete the petition: You must complete a petition or application for a protection order. This form will require detailed information about yourself, the abuser, and the specific incidents that have led you to seek protection. Accuracy and thoroughness are essential.
• File with the court: Once the petition is complete, file it with the appropriate court in your jurisdiction. Court clerks can assist with the filing process and answer procedural questions.
• Serve the order: After the court issues a protection order, it must be "served" on the abuser, officially notifying them of the order and its terms. Service is typically carried out by law enforcement or a professional process server.
• Attend the court hearing: A hearing will be scheduled where both parties can present their case. Attending and preparing to present your evidence and testimony is crucial.
• Enforce the order: If the abuser violates the protection order, immediately contact law enforcement. Violations can have serious legal consequences.

Common Concerns When Seeking a Protective Order

Common concerns when seeking a protection order include the following:

• Potential impact on family dynamics: Protection orders can affect child custody, visitation agreements, and daily interactions within your household.
• Consequences for employment: Some individuals worry about their job security or professional licensing when a protection order is in place.
• Long-term record and reputation: Both the subject and the petitioner of an order may have concerns about the order appearing on public records or background checks.
• Understanding requirements: The process of filing for a protection order involves detailed paperwork and careful documentation of the situation, which can feel intimidating without support.

Penalties for Violating Protection Orders

At Johnson Law Group, we understand the gravity of protection orders and the importance of adhering to their terms. Violating a protection order is a serious offense with significant legal consequences. 

Here is a breakdown of potential penalties:

• Criminal charges may be filed: Violating a protection order can lead to criminal charges, such as contempt of court or violation of a protection order, potentially resulting in fines, probation, or jail time.
• Increased restrictions may be imposed: A violation can prompt the court to impose stricter terms on the existing protection order, such as extending its duration or adding new restrictions.
• Rights may be lost: In certain situations, violating a protection order can result in losing specific rights, including the right to possess firearms.

It is vital to understand that any contact with the protected individual that contravenes the order's terms can be considered a violation, regardless of how minor it seems. We strongly recommend that anyone subject to a protection order carefully review its terms and fully understand the potential repercussions of any violation. We can provide clarification and guidance if you have questions about a specific protection order.

What to Expect When Working With Our Protection Orders Attorney

Navigating a protection order can feel daunting, which is why working with an experienced attorney brings invaluable peace of mind. A protective orders lawyer guides you through the procedural steps, provides realistic guidance about the process, and communicates your rights clearly. Your attorney’s familiarity with both Colorado state law and the specific practices of Denver-area courts can help you avoid missteps that might jeopardize your request or your rights.

If you are evaluating whether you need legal support, consider these ways an attorney can assist at each step:

• Guidance on documentation: Helping you collect relevant evidence and organize it for court.
• Understanding eligibility: Assessing your situation to determine whether you may qualify for a protection order under state law.
• Representation at hearings: Explaining your case clearly and responding to questions from the judge or opposing counsel.
• Ongoing support: Advising you on compliance and addressing any questions after a protection order is issued.

Call (720) 744-3513 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Denver order of protection lawyer today.