How do you define domestic violence?

If you have been accused of committing domestic violence, you need to have a clear understanding of exactly what domestic violence is and how it typically manifests itself within a household. First and foremost, domestic violence and other kinds of emotional abuse are behaviors that one party in a relationship employs in order to control the other person.

Whether you happen to be married, unmarried, lesbian, gay, heterosexual, dating or separated with your abuser, certain types of behaviors might be considered domestic violence by a Colorado court. These behaviors include: putdowns and name-calling; preventing a partner from getting in touch with his or her friends and family; taking away money; preventing a spouse from being employed; threats of violence; violence against the other person; sexual assault; and stalking.

Domestic violence allegations are criminal allegations, and they can include various forms of physical assault like pushing, shoving and hitting. Sexual abuse and forced sexual activity can also qualify as domestic violence.

Accusations of domestic violence usually result in swift action from Colorado police and the criminal court system. An individual accused of domestic violence could be subjected to immediate court orders that prevent him or her from making contact with family members. It can also result in arrests and other serious consequences.

Those who are accused of domestic violence may want to fight the charges in court with a well-orchestrated and strategic criminal defense. Colorado courts are well aware that people are often wrongly accused of domestic violence out of spite, in order for the other party to gain the upper hand in divorce proceedings, and for other reasons. For this reason, anyone accused of domestic violence will have the chance to defend him or herself in court, and the person will not be punished until — and only if — the accused is proved to be guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.

Source: domesticviolence.org, “Definition,” accessed June 26, 2015