While assault, battery and threats of violence are already illegal in Jefferson County, Colorado, the penalties and collateral consequences are more serious when the crime occurs between two people related by blood or marriage or who were previously in a romantic relationship.
The designation of a domestic relationship is usually defined to include a boyfriend and girlfriend, a husband and wife, gay or lesbian couples, a mother and father who have a child in common, or family members closely related by blood or marriage (particularly parents, children and siblings).
Many domestic violence cases also involve filing for a petition for protection (often called a "restraining order" or "injunction") against domestic violence.
Criminal charges can follow an allegation of a violation of an injunction for domestic violence. Related charges include stalking, cyberstalking and harassment.
Founded in 1958, NACDL is the largest organization for criminal defense lawyers fighting to preserve fairness within America's criminal justice system. The organization has more than 10,000 direct members including criminal defense attorneys in private practice, public defenders in state or federal court, U.S. military defense counsel, law professors and judges.
The CCDB provides support and training to criminal defense attorneys and advocates to protect the rights of the accused.
The Metropolitan Lawyer Referral Service - The MRLS is sponsored by several local bar associations including the First Judicial District Bar Association for Jefferson County, Colorado. Since 1972, the MLRS has helped individuals and businesses during their search for an attorney in Golden, Colorado. This non-profit and community based service screens local attorneys for their experience and good standing with the Colorado State Bar. The advantage of using a lawyer referral service includes the ability to talk with a trained staff person, pay a $75 consultation fee and receive an impartial referral to a local attorney with experience with that type of case.