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Restraining orders—which are also referred to as protection orders and no-contact orders—prohibit contact between individuals when one person is believed to be at risk for harm from another.

illustration of Restraining Orders title on the ground in a police arena
A restraining order, also known as a protection order, prohibits contact between individuals when one person is believed to be at risk for harm from another.

Restraining orders can be sought by someone who feels that he or she needs protection, but they can also be contested if a person believes a protection order has been filed unjustly. If you’re seeking a restraining order, desire to fight a protection order filed by another, or are accused of violating a restraining order, the Denver lawyers at Wolf Law are here to help.

Call our experienced Colorado criminal law attorneys today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online to arrange your free consultation.

Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Restraining Order?

The short answer is no; anyone can file for a protection order. However, it can be advantageous to work with a lawyer who has specific experience with restraining orders.

A knowledgeable attorney understands the details necessary to obtain a protection order. Legal representation for gaining a protection order may be especially beneficial if children are involved, or if the other party has already hired an attorney to secure or fight a restraining order.

Protection orders may be temporary or permanent. Victims of abuse, assault or domestic violence are granted immediate protection; the terms and duration of no-contact orders in those situations is determined by a judge based on the circumstances of the crime and the criminal background of the accused.

Obtaining a Restraining Order

A crime does not have to be committed in order for a restraining order to be issued. If you feel threatened, or if you believe harm is likely to occur, filing for a temporary restraining order (TRO) is a good first step.

A crime does not have to be committed for a restraining order to be issued.

The person filing a restraining order is called the petitioner; the person being prohibited from contact is referred to as the respondent or defendant. Petitioners can obtain a TRO during regular business hours at the county court by filing a complaint and related documents. Often a judge will hear the complaint and issue the TRO on the same day. If court is not in session, local law enforcement agencies have procedures a petitioner can use to obtain an emergency protection order.

A temporary restraining order stipulates a specific distance the defendant must maintain from the petitioner’s home, work, child’s daycare, school, etc. To activate a TRO, the defendant must be served with Proof of Service documentation.

Temporary restraining orders last up to 14 days and will effectively restrict contact between the petitioner and the defendant. However, this order is not permanent—a permanent hearing will determine if the order should extend in perpetuity.

The permanent hearing is critical if the petitioner wants to make the order endure. At the permanent hearing, additional evidence may be submitted, testimony from both the petitioner and the defendant may be heard, and child safety will be considered as applicable. For example, if the petitioner has children with the defendant, the hearing could establish rules for contact with the children.

To obtain a permanent restraining order, the petitioner must testify that the defendant hurt or threatened to hurt the petitioner, and that the petitioner is in imminent danger of further harm if the order is not issued. The defendant’s presence is requested at the permanent hearing; if he or she doesn’t show, the judge will likely allow the protection order to become permanent.

Contesting a Restraining Order

Once a temporary restraining order is obtained by the petitioner and served to the defendant, the defendant has little recourse until the permanent hearing. If a defendant doesn’t agree with all or parts of a temporary restraining order, it is in their best interest to appear in court and argue their case.

A permanent protection order can have long-term consequences if the defendant chooses to ignore the hearing or does not present a sound case to the judge. Child visitation may be restricted and Second Amendment limitations may be enforced, and a defendant could even be prohibited from continuing to live in the family home. Permanent protection orders will also show up in background checks and may adversely affect a defendant’s ability to find employment or housing.

Again, a defendant is not obligated to attend a permanent hearing. But judges often approve permanent protection orders when defendants don’t show up.

Restraining Order Violations in Colorado

man arrested in handcuffs
A person who violates a restraining order may face fines, jail time or both.

Violating a restraining order is a crime in Colorado. Police must have “probable cause” to believe the defendant violated the order before they can make an arrest. The criminal process begins after the arrest.

A person faced with a restraining order violation may be subject to fines, jail time, or both. A protection order violation may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. Charges may be compounded if another crime occurs in conjunction with the restraining order violation.

Legal Help with Restraining Orders and Protection Order Violations

The Denver criminal law attorneys at Wolf Law have extensive experience helping clients successfully file restraining orders, dispute unjust protection orders, and defend against protection order violations.

Our lawyers recognize the serious and potentially life-changing impacts of protection orders. If you’re considering obtaining or fighting a protection order, or if you’ve been charged with violating a protection order, it’s a good idea to consult with an attorney who can help you understand the gravity of the situation as well as your legal options.

Please call Wolf Law today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online for your free consultation. We welcome clients from the greater Denver area and throughout Colorado.

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Jeff Wolf and Cassandra Monahan were wonderful to work with. Very professional and thorough.

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I cannot thank Jeffrey enough for his dedication and hard work on my case. From the very beginning, he took the time to understand every detail and worked diligently to ensure the best possible outcome. His expertise, professionalism, and clear communication made a challenging situation much easier to navigate.

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I highly recommend Jeffrey to anyone in need of legal representation. He’s not only an outstanding attorney but also a great person who truly cares about his clients’ success. I couldn’t have asked for a better advocate!

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I was falsely accused of a crime with serious consequences, was very depressed and got even more depressed and frustrated as I was interviewing attorneys to defend me. They had a broad spectrum of approaches and some were ready to head to trial immediately as it seemed they were primarily interested in battles and my money rather than my best interests. The first one was extremely arrogant and rushed to get me off the phone. My court appearance date was approaching and I was ready to give up when I came across Jeffrey’s website. I read he had once also been falsely accused which motivated him to become an attorney. After further reading, his philosophy appealed to me so I set up a free session.

I met with Jeffrey and told him what happened. He explained the alleged crime and potential consequences and then spoke about himself and his approach. I spent more time than the “free time” allocated but was never rushed. He listened, believed me and was really genuine as I had not witnessed before with other attorneys.

By the time we finished talking, I felt respected and not disrespected as I found out with this accusation, you are guilty until proven innocent from most everyone’s perspective. I hired Jeff on the spot and when I left his office, I felt this big burden lifted off my shoulders as I knew I could trust him to do his best for me. I was finally able to sleep that night and after several weeks able to put this out of my mind as being the constant main focus.

If you are seeking a very knowledgeable, trustworthy, caring, honest and respectful attorney, Jeffrey fits the bill. He is a great listener and never rushed me even with a flat fee rate. He has a good rapport with the Court who also respectfully listens to him. He is well spoken in the courtroom. I have seen him in several cases reaching very good settlements for his clients. On my case, he provided me his opinion with his rationale as to how I should proceed but allowed me to then make a decision as to go to trial or take a plea bargain. He would fully support my decision either way. Jeff is very good in providing the pros and cons, risks, and potential scenarios that may play out. My case will be dismissed shortly and record sealed as a result of Jeff’s hard work, negotiations, poking holes in the accuser’s story pre-trial, and dedication to my satisfactory case resolution. If you want the best, look no further as you have found him. Thank you Jeff!

— David C.

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Jeff Wolf is extremely timely, reliable, and efficient. He cares about you as more than just another case, he cares about you as a person. Jeff worked with me on my out-of-state case and went above and beyond to ensure that I received the best possible outcome.

— Anonymous

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If one were to Google all the attributes that you want in legal representation, Wolf Law would check off each box. His entire staff is helpful and professional. As for Mr. Wolf himself, his expertise and straight-talk are exactly what you want and need in an attorney. The outcome of my case matched my most optimistic goal. I thoroughly endorse Wolf Law.

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Wolf Law LLC is an exceptional law firm that I would recommend to all in search for legal help or advice. I had a troublesome case, it had me very worried and distraught, I had no idea what to do. I talked with Jeff in a FREE consultation, he was very knowledgeable and understanding of my situation, it had made me feel a lot more comfortable about my case and the position I was in (as if I was family). Every time there was something new about my case or even if I had questions, I felt comforted and relieved, Jeff responded very quickly.

I know not every case is the same and may not be dismissed like mine was, but with Wolf Law in your corner, I believe you have a fighting chance. Thank you again Wolf Law for fighting with me!

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Working with Mr. Wolf was an absolute privilege. Having never been in trouble with the law before, Jeff was there for me each step of the way from the day before I turned myself in, to the very end of my case, which he was able to help me get dismissed.

A true professional, he was nothing but honest and fair to me. He showed me and my family the utmost respect through a difficult time. At a point when I felt alone, Jeff was there to make sure I would be ok.

He is true to his word, and each step of the way, he and his team will keep you informed on any and all items that need to be addressed.

Because of Mr. Wolf, I can continue with my life and move forward. Thank you, Jeff Wolf, and everyone at the firm. If anyone I know ever needs a defense attorney, I will recommend the best in Colorado. Wolf Law.

— John

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I would like to place on record the immense appreciation for Ms Colleen Kelly, Partner at Wolf Law LCC. I had an opportunity as a Solicitor to interact with her on behalf of one of my clients in a DV Matter. Her professionalism and knowledge of law is absolutely outstanding. She is extremely honest and straightforward in her legal advice. She always keeps the interest of the client a priority and safe guards the interest of the client at all times. She is an asset to the legal team and adds value with her expertise and knowledge.

— Nirvikar Singh, Advocate Supreme Court of India

Case Dismissed

I contacted Wolf Law to represent and guide me through legal troubles caused by an unfortunate night of events. I was put in contact with Ms Monahan who was very thorough in explaining the process and was able to file a last minute overseas trip and get court approval for several out of state work trips while the case was still pending. This allowed me to maintain my job responsibilities without awkward conversations or interruptions.

Just months after the incident, Ms Monahan and Wolf Law were able to get the case dismissed and the records sealed. I certainly hope and intend on never needing to call Wolf Law again but if I had to, I would not hesitate to call them again.

— Roger