- February 1, 2025
- Family Law
Colorado Law Protects Those Who Need it Most
Relationships are filled with ups and downs. Unfortunately, sometimes they disintegrate to the point where the safety of one individual and/or their children is of issue. The state of Colorado recognizes this and has safeguards, referred to as protection orders, in place to help those who fear they are in danger.
The temperature of relationships can change on a dime; often individuals suddenly find themselves fearful for their safety. In times like this, swift action is critical, and these orders can help provide the necessary safeguards.
If you are worried about your well-being, or that of your minor children, reach out to a Colorado family attorney for assistance in obtaining a protection order.
This professional can explain the different types of protection orders available and help you determine and secure exactly what you need as quickly as possible.
When it comes to your safety and that of your family, you may feel that you need to take things into your own hands. Don’t hesitate to get the help you need to keep harm at bay.
Types of Protection Orders in Colorado
An Overview
Protection orders are also known as restraining orders and are frequently seen in cases involving domestic abuse; they help to safeguard one individual from another. Additionally, if you are a parent or guardian and are concerned for the welfare of your minor child or children, you can also request and receive protection orders for them.
In Colorado, there are three types of protection orders. Several factors, including the time of day the need for one should arise, determine the type of order requested and the process to obtain it. A family law attorney with experience in pursuing protection orders can be a valuable resource in times like this.
Emergency Protection Orders
Sometimes situations arise which require immediate attention and action. For example, if an individual’s well-being or life is in danger and the courts are closed (evenings/weekends), there is a process to obtain an Emergency Protection Order (EPO). In Colorado, members of law enforcement can request these orders, which become active the moment the accused abuser is served with the papers. These documents require that individuals refrain from having any contact with the potential victims.
EPOs are short term in nature and remain in effect for three days, during which firearm access is impacted. These orders are designed to provide necessary urgent security until the courts are in session to fully determine what should be done.
Temporary Protection Orders
Temporary Protection Orders (TPO) provide a short-term answer to an urgent issue. These orders are either the second step for those who received EPOs or the first step for those who feel they are in danger and have the option to request assistance in court during normal business hours.
Temporary protection orders issued by a judge can last for up to 14 days. They go into effect as soon as the accused party is served. While anyone over the age of 18 can provide assistance in this task, quite often a police officer or a professional process server will be used to deliver the documents. Under no circumstances should the individual in danger risk their safety by notifying their aggressor in person.
Permanent Protection Orders
Permanent Protection Orders (PPO) lengthen the time frame of temporary orders and are assigned when long-term protection is necessary. The state places a high priority on ensuring that both sides have the opportunity to present their case. In fact, a hearing must be held in order to move forward. Judges take great care when listening to these cases as they recognize the power of these documents. They will not be issued in cases where danger is not real.
Understanding the Process
After both parties present their case, the judge has three options. They can extend the TPO through the end of divorce proceedings or up to 120 days. If the danger is clear and present, they can make the TPO permanent. Or if they do not believe danger exists, they will lift the order.
The first priority when it comes to restraining orders is providing protection, immediately, to those who need it most. That said, care is taken to ensure that long-term orders are issued only in cases where they are truly necessary.
Price Family Law Prioritizes the Well-Being of Their Clients
Our Knowledge and Experience Provide Us a Solid Base from Which to Serve
For more than a decade, Price Family Law, led by attorney Trista Price, has provided a broad range of services to families in need in Colorado. The team is well-versed in the types of protection orders available, the laws governing their use, and the processes in place to obtain them.
This knowledge and experience is complemented by the firm’s compassionate approach to service, which prioritizes active listening. They are well aware that no two situations are identical, and understanding the specifics is critical to providing each client the assistance they need.
As professionals not personally involved in your relationship, the attorneys at Price Family Law are able to offer unbiased advice and counsel and provide a calming presence during particularly tumultuous times, especially when one needs the protections provided by a restraining order.
Their team can complete the necessary paperwork on your behalf and work with you to ensure you have all the information and evidence you need to support your request. As your representative in court, they will make sure to tell the entirety of your story, drawing an accurate picture of your situation to reinforce your needs.
As their client, your well-being is their ultimate concern. They will leverage the resources of the entire firm on your behalf as they pursue the protection order you need.
Contact Price Family Law Today
Are you concerned that you may be a victim of domestic violence? When your safety and well-being are in danger, you don’t have time to waste. The team at Price Family Law understands the value of time and are ready to go to work for you immediately. They provide all prospective clients with a no-cost consultation.
Trust and confidence are paramount when engaging an attorney to help safeguard your well-being.
The team is known for treating their clients with the utmost respect and care, serving them as if they were family members.
Your concerns are valid and important; contact Trista Price and her team today at 720-615-1750 to schedule a free consultation and learn how they can support you.
