Fort Morgan
Domestic Violence
Defense Attorney

Bruno Lilly LeClere

At Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC, our Fort Morgan domestic violence defense lawyers provide personalized legal advocacy to defendants. You deserve zealous legal representation—no matter the specific nature of the charges.

We are dedicated to protecting our clients’ futures by leveraging our expertise and commitment to securing the best possible outcomes in domestic violence cases.

If you or your family member was arrested and charged with domestic violence in Morgan County, we are here to help. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Fort Morgan domestic violence defense lawyer.

Domestic Violence: Colorado Law

Unlike some other jurisdictions, Colorado does not have a specific, standalone domestic violence charge. Instead, the offense is considered to be an “enhancer” in our state. Under Colorado law (C.R.S. § 18-6-800.3), domestic violence is defined as an act or threatened act of violence upon someone with whom the perpetrator is or has been involved in an intimate relationship. It also includes any other crime against a person or property, when used as a method of coercion, control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge directed against a person with whom the perpetrator is or has been involved in an intimate relationship. As it is an enhancer or “aggravating factor,” a domestic violence charge can lead to more severe penalties for the defendant.

A conviction for a domestic violence charge can have serious and lasting consequences for the defendant, affecting their future opportunities and rights.

How Does Colorado Define an “Intimate Relationship” for Domestic Violence?

In Colorado, an “intimate relationship” for domestic violence is defined as a relationship between spouses, former spouses, past or present unmarried couples, or persons who are both the parents of the same child regardless of whether they have been married or have lived together at any time. 

We Defend All Types of Domestic Violence Charges in Fort Morgan

Were you arrested for a domestic violence offense in Fort Morgan? You need to take immediate action to protect your rights, freedom, and future. At Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC, we are a boutique criminal defense firm that takes on all types of domestic violence charges. Along with other domestic violence cases in Fort Morgan, our attorneys have the experience to defend you against:

• Assault: Physical assault can lead to a domestic violence charge if the victim and the offender have an intimate relationship. In Colorado, assault in the context of domestic violence can fall into three categories. First-degree assault (the most serious) involves causing serious bodily injury intentionally with a deadly weapon. Second-degree assault often involves intentionally causing bodily injury with a weapon, while third-degree assault involves knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person.
• Stalking: Stalking is another offense that can carry a domestic violence enhancement. Stalking in Colorado involves repeatedly following, approaching, contacting, or surveilling another person or someone with whom they have a relationship in a manner that causes them emotional distress or reasonably causes them to fear for their safety. 
• Unlawful Sexual Contact: Unlawful sexual contact in Colorado is defined as touching the intimate parts of another person without their consent, or coercing someone to touch another’s intimate parts without consent. An intimate relationship between the parties is an aggravating factor and can lead to more serious domestic violence charges. 

An Overview of Defenses Against Domestic Violence 

Arrested for a domestic violence offense in Fort Morgan? You may have questions about how exactly you should defend yourself against the charge. The answer depends on a wide range of case-specific factors. Some of the defense strategies against domestic violence include:

• False Allegation: In some cases, false allegations of domestic violence are made. Every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. You can challenge false allegations. 
• Self-Defense: Self-defense may be a viable option for defending certain domestic violence allegations.

A key part of any defense is challenging the prosecution’s case and the evidence they present.

Why Trust Our Fort Morgan Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer?

Facing a domestic violence allegation in Morgan County? You need experienced legal representation. Our attorneys Havilah Louise Bruno Lilly and Andrew LeClere have extensive knowledge of Colorado criminal law, allowing them to fiercely advocate for clients and pursue the best possible outcomes. We understand the importance of obtaining the necessary credentials and experience to provide high-quality defense. Our firm is dedicated to fairness and respect, ensuring that every client is treated with dignity and professionalism throughout the legal process. We are proactive. Along with other things, our Fort Morgan domestic violence defense lawyers are prepared to:

• Listen to what happened and explain your rights and your options; 
• Investigate the incident in question—gathering all key evidence; and
• Develop a personalized domestic violence defense strategy. 

Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs) vs. Civil Protection Orders (CPOs)

In Fort Morgan, law enforcement can secure an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) immediately after an arrest, lasting up to 72 hours. A Civil Protection Order (CPO) can then be requested by the alleged victim, with a court hearing within 14 days. Both orders can dramatically affect your daily life—restricting where you can live, work, see your children, and even impacting your job or employment opportunities. We help clients navigate EPO hearings and fight unjust CPOs at the 14-day hearing.

Domestic Violence Diversion Programs in Morgan County

First-time, non-violent offenders may qualify for Morgan County’s diversion programs, which emphasize counseling and community service in lieu of prosecution. Successful completion can lead to case dismissal—avoiding a permanent criminal record. Our attorneys can assess your eligibility, guide you through program requirements, and advocate for your acceptance.

Morgan County Court Process

Navigating the Morgan County court process can be daunting, especially for individuals and families facing criminal charges in Fort Morgan, Colorado. Understanding how the criminal justice system operates is essential for anyone hoping to secure the best possible outcome in their criminal case. At our law office, our team of experienced domestic violence criminal defense lawyers is dedicated to providing the personalized attention and aggressive legal representation that clients need during this challenging time.

When someone is arrested and formally charged with a crime in Fort Morgan, they are immediately thrust into a complex legal system. The process typically begins with an arraignment, where the charges are formally presented and the defendant enters a plea. This is followed by a series of court appearances, including pre-trial conferences, where the prosecution’s case is outlined and the defense has the opportunity to respond. Throughout each stage, our law firm is committed to defending our clients’ rights, building a strong defense, and advocating for their best interests in court.

It is crucial for anyone facing criminal charges in Morgan County to remain silent and avoid answering questions from law enforcement without a lawyer present. Our legal team is here to guide clients through every step of the process, ensuring that their rights are protected and their futures are safeguarded. We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with being arrested and facing criminal charges, and we are committed to providing the support, guidance, and advocacy our clients deserve.

Experienced Colorado Attorneys Fighting for Your Rights

Our law firm has a proven track record of defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges, including domestic violence, violent crimes, and property crimes. We know that every criminal case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategies to the specific circumstances and needs of each client. Our attorneys are well-versed in Colorado law and the intricacies of the Morgan County court process, allowing us to fight effectively for the best possible outcome in every case.

If you or a family member is facing criminal charges in Fort Morgan or anywhere in Morgan County, it is vital to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our law firm is dedicated to protecting your rights, defending your interests, and helping you navigate the legal system with confidence. We are committed to providing compassionate, aggressive legal representation and to fighting for the best interests of our clients at every stage of the court process.

Whether you are dealing with domestic violence charges or any other criminal matter, our team of skilled attorneys is ready to advocate for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you defend your future and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Domestic Violence Charges in Fort Morgan: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Colorado?

Domestic violence in Colorado can be charged as a felony depending on the circumstances and severity of the case. If the act of domestic violence involves severe physical harm, the use of a weapon, or if the perpetrator has previous convictions for similar offenses, felony charges are likely. Indeed, many domestic violence cases are felonies. 

Can the Victim Decide to Drop a Domestic Violence Charge in Colorado?

In Colorado, the victim of domestic violence cannot unilaterally decide to drop the charges once they have been filed. Colorado has a “no-drop” policy for domestic violence criminal cases. The decision to continue with or drop the charges rests with the prosecutors, not the victim. The policy is in place to prevent the potential coercion of victims into dropping charges by their abusers.

Will a Domestic Violence Charge Have Family Law Implications?

It can. A domestic violence charge can have a major impact on family law matters in Colorado, particularly those involving child custody and child visitation rights. Courts may view a parent with a domestic violence charge as a risk to the child’s well-being. Your family law rights may be a consideration when developing a defense strategy.

How Do DV Charge Impact My Family and Child Visitation Rights?

Domestic violence allegations in Fort Morgan can trigger custody restrictions, supervised visits, or even loss of parental rights. Colorado courts place a “best interests of the child” presumption above all else. We work closely with family law practitioners to present a holistic defense, demonstrating your fitness as a parent and mitigating the emotional impact on your children.