From criminal investigations to threats of domestic violence, there are many reasons why a protection order might be filed. No matter where you stand in one of these cases, we will fight for the best possible outcome.

Understanding Broomfield Protection Orders

Whether you’ve filed a protection order or had one issued against you, taking the right legal steps is critical. Mistakes in the filing process can result in your request being denied, and the protection you need not being granted. Violating a protection order, even unintentionally, can also lead to serious criminal charges.

Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. supports individuals throughout Broomfield and the greater Front Range in both filing and contesting protection orders.

What is a Protection Order?

You might not realize it, but the terms “protection order” and “restraining order” mean the same thing. Broomfield courts issue protection orders to keep one individual safe from the threats of another person. While motivations for filing protection orders can vary, the courts grant them for the sake of public safety.

Classifications for Broomfield Protection Orders

Broomfield and the state of Colorado classify protection orders in two ways:

• Protection Orders for Criminal Cases: Issued automatically during criminal cases to protect a victim or witness.
• Civil Protection Orders: Requested by a citizen of Broomfield who feels threatened by another person.

Protection Orders for Criminal Cases in Broomfield

The Colorado courts also use the term “mandatory protection orders” (MPOs) to describe criminal protection orders. These protection orders are considered mandatory because Broomfield courts automatically issue them during criminal cases.

Mandatory protection orders (MPOs) are put in place to stop defendants from harming a victim or a witness in many ways:

• Calling, texting, or emailing the victim
• Showing up at the victim’s home, work, or school
• Making threats in person or online
• Asking others to contact or pressure the victim on their behalf
• Destroying or hiding evidence
• Trying to influence what a witness says in court

Please note, Broomfield courts often treat domestic violence protection orders with stricter rules than other criminal cases.

Civil Protection Orders in Broomfield

While criminal protection orders are issued automatically, civil protection orders (CPOs) are filed for by citizens when they feel their safety is at risk.

The process begins when the person seeking protection (petitioner) files for a protection order with the Broomfield courts. If they deem it necessary, the court will issue a temporary protection order (TPO) that is valid until an evidentiary hearing takes place. At the second hearing, the person fighting the protection order (respondent) will have the chance to explain their side.

If the Broomfield judge deems the civil protection order valid, they will issue a permanent protection order (PPO).

Need Help Filing a Civil Protection Order?

Filing for a protection order is a courageous step. Let our experienced Broomfield attorneys at Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. help you take it with confidence. We are your trusted advocates during these challenging times.

How Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. Helps File Protection Orders

With over 30 years of experience, we know exactly how to file civil protection orders for the best possible results. The team at Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. will be by your side the entire time and ensure that no critical steps are missed.

Step 1: Filing Paperwork

To get the process started, our criminal defense attorneys will file your civil protection order paperwork at:

Broomfield Combined Courts

17 Descombes Drive

Broomfield, CO 80020

With a strong working knowledge of the Broomfield legal system, Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C will ensure the necessary documents are completed accurately and filed on time, including JDF 402, JDF 442, and JDF 401.

Step 2: The Temporary Protection Order Hearing

Temporary protection order hearings are often scheduled very quickly after the paperwork is filed. To prepare you, our legal team will gather key evidence, including text messages, photos, and police reports. At the hearing, we will submit the additional evidence to the court while clearly explaining your situation to the judge.

Step 3: The Permanent Protection Order Hearing

During the permanent protection order hearing, our team will represent you in court and put local knowledge behind your case. Common duties during these hearings include:

• Witness preparation
• Presenting evidence
• Cross-examinations
• Negotiating alternatives
• Make legal arguments

What Happens if There is a Protection Order Filed Against Me?

At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C., we also realize how stressful it can be if you must defend yourself against a protection order. Unfortunately, civil protection orders can show up on criminal background checks.

As seen with misdemeanor and felony crimes in Colorado, having a criminal background can greatly hinder your ability to secure employment and housing. In some instances, it can also keep you from joining the military or carrying a firearm.

Due to the severity of the consequences, you’re well advised to work with a skilled attorney if defending yourself against a protection order.

Legal Advocacy for Both Sides of Broomfield Protection Orders

From filing a protection order to defending against one, the Broomfield attorneys at Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. will help you find a resolution and move forward.

Let us put our local knowledge to work for you!