Domestic Violence and Intimate Relationships in Fort Collins
In order to be charged with a domestic violence offense, the accusing ‘victim’ and the accused must have been in an ‘intimate relationship.’ But what does the law see as intimate relationships?
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Fort Collins Domestic Violence AttorneyDefinition of Intimate Relationships
Colorado Law C.R.S. 18-6-800.3 defines intimate relationship as:
The Supreme Court decided there are three factors to take into consideration when deciding if a relationship falls into the ‘intimate relationship’ category:
- The length of time the relationship existed.
- The nature or type of relationship.
- The frequency of interaction between the parties.
Previously, an intimate relationship needed to have a sexual component. Now, almost any type of relationship could be considered intimate. If the couple dated a few times, kissed or held hands, without ever having had sex, the courts see them as having had an intimate relationship and therefore a domestic violence offense could be applicable if there was a situation within the relationship.
Larimer County Domestic Violence LawyerDomestic Violence Is Not a Charge on its Own
You cannot be charged with Domestic Violence in Fort Collins, Loveland or Estes Park. In Colorado, domestic violence is not a charge on its own. Instead, it is a sentence enhancer. This means if your ex-girlfriend accuses you of Harassment, because of the intimate relationship piece, you would get charged with Harassment – Domestic Violence. Or, if your child’s father files a police report claiming you assaulted him, you would be charged with Assault – as an act of Domestic Violence. The DV sentence enhancer allows for harsher punishments at your sentencing, including Domestic Violence Treatment.
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Why You Need An Attorney for Your Domestic Violence Allegations
Person charged with or found guilty of domestic violence can lose their jobs, families, and freedom. An attorney experienced in handling complex cases, who understands the long-term consequences of both a charge and conviction, can advocate for you and advise you of all risks and outcomes.