I'm a former prosecutor who now defends people accused of assault and domestic violence in Central City and across Gilpin County. I'll help you understand what's happening and protect your rights at every step.
Arrested for Domestic Violence in Central City?
Central City police must arrest when they find probable cause of domestic violence. After booking at the Gilpin County Jail, you'll usually be held until an advisement hearing, where a judge sets bond and enters a mandatory protection order. The case is then prosecuted by the First Judicial District Attorney.
The First 72 Hours After a DV Arrest
What you do right after the arrest matters. Don't contact the alleged victim, even to apologize or explain, and don't post about the incident online. Write down everything you remember while it's fresh, including witnesses, texts, and injuries you suffered. Then let me handle communication with the court and the prosecution.
Getting a Protection Order Modified
Protection orders can separate parents from children, force someone out of a home they pay for, and prevent couples who want to reconcile from speaking. The court can modify an order when it's appropriate. I file motions to modify and present the information the judge needs to allow safe contact.
Investigating What Really Happened
DV cases often rest on a single 911 call and an emotional first statement. I gather the full record: body-cam footage, 911 audio, medical records, prior communications, and independent witnesses. Self-defense, mutual combat, exaggeration, and false allegations are all real defenses when the evidence supports them.
Central City Assault & Domestic Violence: Common Questions
Can I contact the alleged victim if they reach out to me?
No. A mandatory protection order applies to you, not them. Responding to their messages can be a new criminal charge. Let me seek a modification instead.
Will I have to give up my firearms?
Usually, yes. While a protection order is in place, you're typically required to relinquish firearms and ammunition. A DV conviction can also carry long-term firearm restrictions.
Can domestic violence charges be dismissed?
Yes. Dismissals happen when the evidence is weak, witnesses are unavailable or inconsistent, or self-defense is clear. Deferred judgments can also lead to dismissal.