What are the penalties for domestic violence and can the charges be dropped?

The penalties for domestic violence cases in Colorado can range from anything as low as a dismissal, to a deferred judgment and sentence, to probation, to jail and probation, to prison followed by parole. Domestic violence can be charged as anything from a petty offense to a misdemeanor to a felony. That really dictates what the penalties will be.
There are some other penalties associated with domestic violence. All domestic violence cases require a domestic violence evaluation and treatment. Those classes can range anywhere from 8 to 52 weeks of domestic violence treatment. Additionally, if you are charged and convicted of domestic violence, you will be prohibited from ever owning or possessing a firearm again, under the federal guidelines. If your case is dismissed, you will be able to possess a firearm again under the federal law.
When people ask "can charges be dropped?", the short answer is: yes. Not all cases have to be charged where you're contacted for domestic violence. Law enforcement has to first find that there's probable cause to believe that the offense has been committed. If so, there will be a mandatory arrest. Once arrested, the DA or district attorney or prosecutor needs to look at the case and determine if they have a reasonable likelihood of success on the merits. If they do not, your charges should be dropped. If the DA needs some persuasion, this is your chance to contact a law firm like ours. We can assist you in providing that persuasion and mitigation in order to get those charges dropped.
If you have further questions, visit burnhamlaw.com/