No Contact Agreement Colorado: What You Need to Know
If you are dealing with harassment or domestic violence, you may find relief in a no contact agreement. Colorado law recognizes the importance of these agreements to protect victims and prevent further abuse. In this article, we`ll discuss what a no contact agreement is, how to obtain one in Colorado, and what to expect once it`s in place.
What is a no contact agreement?
A no contact agreement (NCA) is a legal document that prohibits one party from contacting or approaching another party. It is typically used in cases of domestic violence, where the victim needs protection from an abuser. A judge can issue a no contact order as part of a criminal or civil case, or a victim can request an NCA through a restraining order.
How to obtain a no contact agreement in Colorado
If you are a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment, you can file for a restraining order in Colorado. There are two types of restraining orders: temporary and permanent. A temporary restraining order can be obtained quickly, without a hearing, and lasts for 14 days. A permanent restraining order requires a court hearing, where both parties can present evidence and testify. Once granted, a restraining order can last up to one year.
In Colorado, a no contact agreement can also be included in a plea agreement or sentencing order in a criminal case. This means that the defendant agrees to stay away from the victim as a condition of their sentence.
What to expect once a no contact agreement is in place
Once a no contact agreement is in place, the person who is prohibited from contacting the victim must abide by the terms of the order. This means they cannot approach the victim in person, by phone, email, social media, or any other means. Violating a no contact order is a criminal offense in Colorado, and can result in fines, jail time, or both.
If the person who seeks protection through a no contact agreement feels that the other party is violating the order, they can report it to the police or the court. The police can arrest the offender if they have probable cause to believe the order has been violated. The victim can also petition the court for a contempt citation, which can result in additional penalties for the offender.
Conclusion
No contact agreements can be a powerful tool in protecting victims of harassment, stalking, and domestic violence. In Colorado, victims can obtain restraining orders that include no contact agreements, or they can request an NCA as part of a criminal case. Once in place, the offender must abide by the terms of the order, or face criminal penalties. If you are a victim in Colorado, you have legal options to protect yourself and prevent further abuse.
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