A crime is considered domestic violence in Colorado when there is an act or threat of violence against an intimate partner. 

Crimes that often involve domestic violence include assault, harassment, violating a restraining order, menacing, and sexual assault. 

Domestic violence is rarely an isolated incident but a pattern of behavior.

Applicable defenses in a domestic violence case may involve a lack of evidence or a mistake of fact. Defendants can also ask the jury to consider evidence that their case doesn’t meet Colorado’s definition of domestic violence. 

Defense is another common argument courts hear in domestic violence cases. While defending oneself or others may be considered during the sentencing phase, the nature of the crime can counteract this argument. A criminal defense attorney can help you craft a thoughtful defense based on your case’s circumstances. 

If you have been convicted of domestic violence, you can expect to surrender any firearms in your possession to law enforcement within 24 hours of sentencing. 

Under both Colorado and federal law, a felony or violent misdemeanor conviction will result in a permanent loss of your gun rights. However, you may get your firearms back if your case is dismissed and the restraining order is lifted. Talking with a skilled criminal defense attorney can help you understand your legal right to firearms.