As teenagers, relationships with the opposite sex may not be all that serious just yet, but as teenagers enter their twenties, long-term dating relationship can quickly turn into a lifetime commitment.  But where do teens learn relationship skills?  How do they learn the best way to respond when relational issues arise, such as jealousy, infidelity, incompatibility, break-ups, or an unplanned pregnancy?  A domestic violence attorney often deals with cases involving these issues, which often result in a violent reaction. 

As a teenager, you may have already been involved in a relationship that ended badly or one where you felt threatened, coerced, controlled or victimized by your partner.  Perhaps you were the person who responded in a violent way when faced with a partner’s infidelity or an unexpected break-up.  By the time your relationship reaches this point, you may find yourself in a precarious legal position that could follow you for the rest of your life.  Like many other states, the state of Colorado has some very stringent domestic violence laws. 

Remember, if you are in an intimate relationship with someone and then commit a crime against that person, it falls into the category of domestic violence.  These crimes carry a much more serious sentence for convicted criminals. 

Here are some of the key facts, about domestic violence law, as compiled by a Colorado domestic violence attorney. 

1. One can be charged with domestic violence even by making a threat against someone with whom they are intimately involved.  The crime can also include acts of revenge, control, coercion, punishment and intimidation or damage to their personal property.
2. As long as there is probable cause to believe a person has committed a crime of domestic violence, officers are required to make an arrest.
3. A person who reports a crime of domestic violence cannot drop the charges unless the DA agrees to do so.
4. Habitual offenders are often charged with a Class 5 felony instead of a misdemeanor when charged with a repeat offense.
5. Anyone who is convicted of a domestic violence crime will lose their right to possess a firearm for life.
6. Domestic violence offenders are required to attend some type of treatment program, as recommended by the domestic violence management board, which can range from 3 to 36 days, depending on the severity of the charge.

If you a have been a victim of domestic violence, or you are being accused of committing this type of crime in Colorado, a Colorado domestic violence attorney from the Marrison Law firm can help.  Contact them today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.

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