Criminal Defense Attorney Longmont | Merson Law Office, LLC
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    • Second Degree Assault in Colorado
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Variables in a Domestic Violence Cases in Colorado

June 10, 2025

Longmont domestic violence charges lawyer. 

Mr. Merson is a highly rated and seasoned Longmont criminal defense attorney with over 20 years experience that is committed to providing you with high quality legal representation on your drug charges.  If you have a pending domestic violence case in Longmont or Boulder County, you probably have many questions about what to expect.  Set up a free consultation today to get some answers. ​

Domestic Violence Legal Framework and Sentencing Enhancements

Under Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) § 18-6-801, any crime that includes an act of domestic violence triggers mandatory sentencing enhancements. These enhancements apply to various offenses, including assault, harassment, and stalking, when committed against an intimate partner. The court is required to impose a domestic violence treatment program and evaluation, conforming to standards set by the Colorado Domestic Violence Offender Management Board.
Habitual Domestic Violence Offenders

​A significant aspect of Colorado's domestic violence sentencing is the classification of habitual offenders. If a defendant has been convicted of three or more prior offenses involving domestic violence, each arising from separate criminal episodes, any subsequent misdemeanor offense that includes an act of domestic violence is elevated to a Class 5 felony.This classification carries a penalty of one to three years in prison, a fine between $1,000 and $100,000, and mandatory parole.
Many different  factors influence the severity of sentencing in domestic violence cases:
  • Criminal History;
  • Severity of Injury;
  • Use of Weapons;
  • Rehabilitation Efforts;
  • The Severity of the offense;
  • Danger posed to the community or victims;
  • The Likelihood of recidivism;
  • Whether the sentence will depreciate the seriousness of the offense if a less drastic option for sentencing was chosen;
  • The Impact of the sentence on the community;
  • The Age of the defendant;
  • Unique Factors in the case and of the Defendant; and
  • The Overall protection of society.
Mandatory Treatment Programs

Conviction of a domestic violence offense requires participation in a court-ordered treatment program. Defendants convicted of a domestic violence offense undergo an evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment track, which can range from Level A to Level C, based on the severity of the offense and the individual's history. Treatment typically involves weekly sessions and continues until the provider deems the defendant has met all required competencies. The cost of these programs is borne by the defendant.
Firearms Restrictions 

​
Colorado law imposes strict firearm restrictions on individuals convicted of domestic violence offenses.
 Convicted individuals must surrender any firearms or ammunition in their possession and are prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms for the duration of their sentence. Failure to comply with these restrictions can result in additional criminal charges.
Impact on Criminal Record and Future Opportunities 

​
A domestic violence conviction in Colorado carries long-term consequences.  such convictions cannot be sealed or expunged, making them visible on background checks for employment, housing, and professional licensing.  This permanent record can significantly impact an individual's future opportunities. 


If you have been accused of domestic violence charges in Longmont or Boulder that carry some of the long lasting consequences mentioned above, your future is in jeopardy. Do not go into the fight without an experienced advocate.  Choosing an experienced lawyer is the best decision you can make early on in your case. If you need representation in Longmont, Boulder, Fort Collins, Erie, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Berthoud, Niwot, Dacono or Lyons schedule a free consultation today, Contact The Merson Law Office at 970-219-2923 or 303-776-3511.  Or fill out an intake form here.  ​​​

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Merson Law Office, LLC
636 Coffman, Suite 200
Longmont, Colorado 80501
​[email protected]

(970) 219-2923 ​or (303) 776-3511​
Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.
  • Home
  • Practice Areas
    • Assault and Menacing Charges.
    • Burglary, Robbery, and Property Crimes
    • Child Abuse
    • Domestic Violence (DV)
    • Drug Possession and Distribution Charges
    • DUI Defense
    • Juvenile Proceedings
    • Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, and Violation of a Custody Order Charges
    • Sex Offenses
  • Attorney Profile
    • Intake Questionnaire
  • Blog
    • Defending Sex Assault Charges in Colorado
    • Defending Drug Charges in Colorado
    • What to Do When Accused of a Crime in Colorado: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide.
    • Penalties for Second Degree ​Assault in Colorado.
    • Sex Offense Sentencing in Colorado
    • Felony Sentencing in Colorado
    • Variables in a Domestic Violence Case in Colorado
    • Second Degree Assault in Colorado
    • Defenses and Mitigating Factors
    • DMV Consequences of a DUI
    • Rule 35(c) Postconviction Relief in Colorado .
    • Calibration Issues with the Breathalyzer Machine in Weld County, Colorado, a Cautionary Tale
    • Colorado DUI Help Guide
    • Colorado DUI FAQs and Information
    • What To Expect In Your Criminal Case
  • Case Results