Being accused of something as serious as domestic violence can have a significant impact on your life, your relationships, and your future. Many people are ashamed of a mistake they have made, while others are afraid that it might be too hard to defend themselves even against false accusations. If you are charged with domestic violence and are considering pleading guilty in your case, continue reading.
Definition of Domestic Violence in Colorado
In Colorado, domestic violence is not treated as its own offense. Instead, charges like assault, false imprisonment, stalking, and sexual assault may receive a domestic violence enhancement. This means that the penalty for the original crime will be worse because it was considered an act of domestic violence versus having been the assault, stalking, etc. of a stranger.
Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
There are numerous consequences a person will likely face after being convicted of domestic violence in Colorado, including but not limited to the following:
- Incarceration. Depending on the severity of the circumstances surrounding your charge, you may be sentenced to jail time or even be incarcerated at a Colorado state prison.
- Fines. You could face hundreds or thousands of dollars in fines depending on what the judge presiding over your case determines.
- Criminal record. If you are convicted of domestic violence, you will have a permanent criminal record that will make getting back to normal after you serve your sentence
- Mandatory counseling. The judge may order you to complete weeks of in-person or online counseling that you cannot opt out of.
- Housing challenges & difficulty finding or maintaining a job. Having a permanent criminal record will make it difficult to rent or buy a home when a background check is completed.
- Ruined relationships. If your friends and family find out about the conviction, you may be isolated and your relationships may suffer.
You should not immediately plead guilty to domestic violence, no matter how damning the evidence against you may be. Remember that you have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination under the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. You should consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer to ensure that you enter a plea in your best interests.
How a Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Assist You
Call criminal defense and DUI lawyer Richard B. Huttner today to learn more or to schedule a consultation to discuss how to best defend yourself under Colorado law at 303-981-6336.