If you have been charged with Menacing Domestic Violence, odds are you got into a fight with your significant other in a public place. Depending on the circumstances, you could be facing misdemeanor or felony charges – either way, the addition of the Domestic Violence label makes the consequences much more serious. Let’s take a look at these two crimes to better understand what you can expect in court in Weld, Morgan, or Logan County.
What is Menacing?
Menacing – C.R.S. – 18-3-206, is charged whenever a person threatens another person, and in doing so, places that person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. If the incident involves a deadly weapon such as a knife, gun, or any object which could cause serious injury (even a beer bottle or fist can be seen as deadly weapons), it is charged as a class 5 felony. Let’s say you and your girlfriend were out drinking one night in Greeley, when she got upset at you. You told her to stop, or else – and show her your fist. If she is afraid, she could call the police. You could face felony charges for your behavior.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic Violence (DV) isn’t a crime on its own. Instead, it is added as a sentence-enhancer to any crime which occurs between two people who are in (or have been) in an intimate relationship (learn more about the vague definition of intimate relationship). If a person is convicted of a Domestic Violence crime, they will be required to complete (and pay for) DV treatment overseen by the Domestic Violence Offender Management Board.
Don’t stand alone in court: Work with an attorney who can fight on your behalf.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for Menacing DV Charges
If you have been charged with Menacing Domestic Violence, you need to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. If you are convicted of any felony or a Domestic Violence crime, you will not be able to own a firearm, or pass certain background checks (which are required for some jobs or find a place to live). Don’t put your future on the line by working with an overworked public defender in Greeley, Evans, or Erie. Protect your future by working with a skilled criminal defense lawyer who will be your advocate in the courtroom.
If you or a loved one has been charged with Menacing Domestic Violence, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.
Image Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net – David Castillo Dominici