When an individual is convicted of a domestic violence offense, that person will likely be ordered to participate in a domestic violence treatment program in addition to whatever other penalties he or she might receive. It is important to understand when these types of programs will be assigned and what they entail. Besides actual domestic violence convictions, these programs can be assigned to those who commit crimes against property when these offenses are used for the purpose of coercing, controlling, punishing, intimidating or carrying out revenge on another individual the offender is in an intimate relationship with, according to Colorado Revised Statutes §18-6-801.
These domestic violence programs, as defined in §16-11.8-103, are designed for the purpose of helping prevent offenders from harming victims in the future. They can include components such as counseling (on both the individual and group levels), outpatient treatment and/or treatment in therapeutic communities. The programs can be assigned to individuals who receive deferred judgments or sentences, as well as to individuals who are probation, parole or in community corrections, according to the program structure defined by the law. They are not available to individual who are sentenced to prison. Domestic violence training programs generally consists of a minimum of 36 sessions, with treatment being based on each offender's risk level, according to information provided by Colorado's Domestic Violence Offender Management Board.
Before receiving an order for such a program, the defendant will be ordered to undergo a treatment evaluation, which will determine whether such a program is the best option for the offender's sentence. The defendant will be required to pay for the cost of his or her evaluation. Domestic violence treatment programs (and their providers) must meet certain standards set by the Domestic Violence Offender Management Board.
Individuals who want to learn a more about the state's domestic violence treatment programs should consult with a skilled attorney who is fully knowledgeable about the state's laws relating to this offense. At Lancaster Law Office, LLC we have in-depth knowledge and understanding about domestic violence laws in Colorado. We can also help our clients challenge their criminal domestic violence charges in court, as well as related restraining order petitions. Contact our office in Denver, Colorado to find out how we might be able to assist you with your case!
