Denver Restraining Order Attorney

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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Mr. Wolf was great to work with. He explained all the aspects of my case in great detail and his communication is excellent. My case was for DUI and Jeff was able to get my sentence deferred which from my understanding, is a very rare outcome.

— Tony G

Wolf Law Saved My Career

I’m a college student in a highly prestigious nursing school. After a night of drinking, my now ex-girlfriend and I got into a heated argument that landed me with domestic violence charges. I thought my career was over and the tens of thousands of dollars I spent on multiple years of school were all for nothing. However, Mr. Wolf was able to get two of my three charges dismissed altogether (one of them being the most serious) without us even walking into the courtroom. When we got to court, he was able to get me a deferred sentence–the best possible scenario. All in all, Wolf Law is hands-down the best in the Denver area. They are the reason I can still pursue my career goals.

— Blair

Jeff Helped Me Feel Safe Again

I would highly recommend attorney Jeffrey Wolf. He consistently demonstrates knowledge and professionalism, both in and out of the courtroom. His expertise helped me to understand the legal process. As a victim of domestic violence, I looked to Mr. Wolf to assist me in obtaining a restraining order. His compassion combined with skill helped me to feel safe again. I reached a positive outcome in my case and felt informed, confident, and cared for with Mr. Wolf in my corner.

— Karen

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Fortunately, I don’t find myself needing legal representation often…only once before have I needed an attorney. My situation was interesting…I was given a disorderly conduct summons and felt it was far beyond the pale in terms of its validity. I didn’t want this on my record and needed help navigating the legal process. I did some research on a few attorneys and read about Jeff Wolf’s practice. I called Jeff and we spoke the same day. He listened to me and I met with him a few days later. He took the time to explain his process and approach, which made sense to me and seemed to be in the right dollar range for what we were dealing with. Thankfully, my case was dismissed. Jeff took the time to show the DA that there were inconsistencies all over the place and that there was no way I was guilty…likely shouldn’t have even been issued a summons. As I said to Jeff, I hope I never have to talk with him again, but I won’t hesitate to call if need be.

— Christian

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Colorado Law had recently passed a law, that would help me in the messy situation I was in. I knew immediately I had to find a lawyer to discuss the situation and the circumstances surrounding the process, and eligibility requirements for my specific case. I have to admit, I was very nervous reaching out to any lawyers who could help me.

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Throughout the whole process, I was comfortable, and very trusting, as questions were answered accurately and after I tried contacting him with new questions or comments, he would return my call or email within 24 Hours! That showed me that he cared and was on top of his workload.

Nonetheless, the outcome of my case worked really well for me, and was a success. And for that, I want to show my gratitude.

Thank You Mr. Wolf for being on my side! I strongly recommend to anyone looking for a well competent lawyer, to contact Jeffrey Wolf at Wolf Law!

— Erwin H.

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I recently had the pleasure of becoming Colleen Kelley’s client. Even despite the terrible circumstances of fighting wrongful criminal charges, Colleen provided a supportive and pleasant experience during this process. Thankfully, I was introduced to Colleen through another attorney. She took my case on short notice and started working on my behalf in less than 24 hours by showing up to court the day after I secured her services.

She was diligent in her research, communication, and pursuit of justice. In just three short months, my case was dismissed. During this three-month nightmare, Colleen provided clarity and assurance along the way. While Colleen was very thorough in regards to every possible outcome I might experience, her professionalism and devotion to this case made it clear that the outcomes would be outstanding from day one. I’m so thankful that I found Colleen to represent me. I would highly recommend her services.

— Dawn R.

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From my very first conversation, I knew that I was in good hands being represented by Jeffrey Wolf. He was extremely honest about my situation and gave me clarity about possible and likely outcomes, never sugarcoating anything. Mr. Wolf has excellent communication skills as he explained all the aspects of my case to me in great detail. He skillfully navigated me through the most difficult and stressful event of my entire life while always exhibiting concern for my personal wellbeing throughout the process.

I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to represent me. Mr. Wolf was great during negotiations with the DA, great in the court room (which was always done via WebEx), always very calm and confident, but firm and never let himself get pushed around by anyone. As a result, Mr. Wolf negotiated a much lower sentence with the DA which allowed me to avoid prison time enabling me to be home with my wife and continue watching out for my 91 years old father.
Thank you, Mr. Wolf!

— Mike Forstner

Colleen is wonderful!

Colleen was so helpful and it was comforting to have her knowledge and experience working on our emergency. She took a process we had no experience with and made us feel secure and empowered. She did so much for us, and I can’t thank her enough or recommend her more highly!

— James Sehota

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If you are in legal trouble Jeff is the attorney for you!
From the first consultation he was a very understanding and caring guy who tells it like it is. I had a pretty bad charge against me and due to Jeff’s knowledge and his ability to negotiate with the powers that be, he was able to get me a pretty fair deal. He was so kind, putting my mind at ease by telling me I was going to be alright as this was the first time in my life I had ever been in trouble.
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