Extended protection orders are a powerful tool for Colorado residents to protect themselves and their families from violence and abuse. They provide an additional layer of protection beyond the standard civil protection order, and can be an important step in the process of seeking safety. In this article, we'll take a look at what extended protection orders are, how they work, and how to obtain one in Colorado. Extended protection orders are court orders that can last up to three years and provide an additional layer of protection. They can be issued in certain circumstances where a standard civil protection order (CPO) may not be enough to protect the victim.
These orders can prevent the respondent from contacting, harassing, or stalking the petitioner, as well as from entering the petitioner's residence, school, or workplace. Extended protection orders also provide additional protections for victims of domestic violence such as prohibiting the respondent from possessing firearms or ammunition, ordering temporary child custody and support, and ordering a mental health evaluation for the respondent. It is important to understand that extended protection orders are separate from civil protection orders and must be obtained through a separate court proceeding. This article will provide an overview of the process of obtaining an extended protection order in Colorado, including information on how to file for an EPO, what to expect during the hearing, and what happens after the EPO is granted. Extended protection orders are a type of civil protection order available in Colorado that offer additional protections beyond other forms of civil protection orders. In order to obtain an extended protection order, victims of abuse or violence must provide evidence of such abuse or violence to the court.
Once granted, an extended protection order can be in place for up to three years and provides a wide range of protections. These protections can include prohibitions on any type of contact with the perpetrator, restrictions on the perpetrator's access to firearms or other weapons, and more. In order to enforce an extended protection order, victims of abuse or violence should report any violations to the local law enforcement agency or the court that issued the order. Violations of an extended protection order can result in criminal charges and may also result in the perpetrator being held in contempt of court.
Victims of abuse or violence who have obtained an extended protection order can access a variety of resources to help them stay safe. These resources can include support services such as counseling, legal assistance, and more. Additionally, victims should know their rights and be aware of any laws that protect them from further abuse or violence. For victims of abuse or violence who have obtained an extended protection order, there are a few steps they can take to ensure their safety.
They should make sure to keep a copy of the order with them at all times and notify law enforcement if it is violated. Additionally, they should consider developing a safety plan that includes steps such as avoiding dangerous situations, identifying safe places, and having a plan for contacting help if needed. In conclusion, extended protection orders are a type of civil protection order available in Colorado that offer additional protections beyond other forms of civil protection orders. These orders provide victims with a way to protect themselves from further abuse or violence by prohibiting contact with the perpetrator and placing restrictions on their access to firearms and other weapons.
Furthermore, victims can access resources and develop safety plans to ensure their safety while the order is in effect. If you are a victim of abuse or violence, it is important to seek help from local law enforcement or legal services to obtain an extended protection order.
What is an Extended Protection Order?
An Extended Protection Order (EPO) is a type of civil protection order available in Colorado that provides longer-term protection for victims of abuse or violence. It is designed to provide greater protections than other types of protection orders, such as temporary restraining orders (TROs).An EPO can be issued for up to two years and can be renewed if needed. It can include provisions for the abuser to stay away from the victim, their home, and/or their workplace.It can also include provisions for the abuser to surrender firearms or other weapons, and may include orders for the abuser to attend counseling or other programs as well. In order to obtain an EPO, the victim must file a petition with the court. The petition must include detailed information about the abuse or violence that has occurred, as well as specific information about the relationship between the abuser and the victim. After the petition is filed, the court may issue a temporary restraining order while it reviews the petition.
Resources for Victims with Extended Protection Orders
Extended protection orders are an important resource for victims of abuse or violence. The order provides additional protection by extending the duration and scope of the original protection order.If you are a victim in Colorado and need help understanding extended protection orders, there are several resources available. The first resource is the Colorado State Website. The website provides information about the types of protection orders available in Colorado, including extended protection orders. It also has information about the process for obtaining an extended protection order, as well as resources to help victims protect themselves and their families.
Another important resource for victims of abuse or violence is Colorado’s Domestic Violence Hotline. The hotline provides victims with information about their legal rights, safety planning, and local services available for victims of abuse or violence. The hotline also provides victims with access to trained advocates who can provide emotional support and guidance. Victims can also seek legal advice from a lawyer experienced in domestic violence issues.
A lawyer can provide guidance on the process for obtaining an extended protection order, as well as any other legal options available to victims of abuse or violence in Colorado. Finally, victims can connect with local shelters and support groups that provide assistance to people experiencing abuse or violence. These organizations offer a range of resources, including shelter, counseling, and legal assistance.
Enforcement of Extended Protection Orders
Extended protection orders (EPOs) are enforced by the court, and the court may issue additional orders to ensure that the EPO is followed.This could include orders for the respondent to stay away from the petitioner and any other people or places mentioned in the EPO, or orders for the respondent to avoid all contact with the petitioner. If the respondent violates the EPO, they can be arrested and charged with a crime. In Colorado, law enforcement officers must make an arrest if they have probable cause to believe that a respondent has violated an EPO. The police officer must then take the respondent into custody and contact the court.
It is important to note that police officers do not have to witness a violation of an EPO in order to make an arrest; they only need probable cause. The court can also issue additional orders to help enforce an EPO, including orders for the respondent to turn over any firearms they possess. In addition, if the EPO requires the respondent to pay child support or other forms of financial assistance, the court can also issue orders to ensure that these payments are made. Finally, the court may also impose additional penalties on the respondent for violating an EPO, such as fines or jail time.
Types of Protection Provided by an Extended Protection Order
An extended protection order (EPO) is a type of civil protection order available in Colorado.It is designed to provide additional protection to victims of abuse or violence, beyond that provided by a temporary protection order (TPO). EPOs are intended to offer longer-term protection from an abuser or stalker, and can include provisions such as no-contact orders, relocation assistance, and access to resources for victims. EPOs may also require the abuser to attend counseling or anger management classes, as well as provide for the payment of financial damages. In addition, an EPO may also include orders to surrender weapons or firearms.
It is important to note that EPOs are not criminal orders; they are civil orders designed to protect the safety of the victim. The types of protections provided by an extended protection order depend on the specific circumstances and the needs of the victim. Generally speaking, an EPO will include provisions such as:No-Contact Order:This type of order requires the abuser to refrain from any contact with the victim, either directly or indirectly, including through third parties. It also prohibits any communication with the victim, such as through phone calls, emails, text messages, or social media.
Relocation Assistance:
In some cases, an EPO may provide for relocation assistance for the victim.This could include financial assistance for expenses related to moving, temporary housing, and other costs associated with relocating to a safe place.
Access to Resources:
An EPO may also provide for access to resources for victims, such as legal aid or counseling services. It is important for victims of abuse or violence to have access to these resources in order to ensure their safety and wellbeing.Counseling or Anger Management:
In some cases, an EPO may require the abuser to attend counseling or anger management classes. This is designed to help the abuser gain control over their emotions and behavior in order to avoid future acts of violence or abuse.Surrendering Weapons/Firearms:
In some cases, an EPO may require the abuser to surrender weapons or firearms. This is done in order to ensure that the abuser does not have access to weapons that could be used against the victim.Staying Safe with an Extended Protection Order
Extended Protection Orders (EPOs) are a legal way for people to protect themselves from abuse or violence in Colorado.An EPO is a civil court order that can provide protection to victims of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault. It is important to understand the process for obtaining an EPO, as well as the rights and responsibilities that come with it. The process for obtaining an EPO starts with filing a petition in the district court in the county where the victim lives. The petition should include a description of the abusive behavior, any incidents of harassment, and a statement of the victim's need for protection. The court will consider the evidence and decide whether or not to grant an EPO.
If the court grants the EPO, it will include a list of orders that must be followed by the defendant. The order may include restrictions on contact between the defendant and the victim, as well as orders regarding possession of firearms or other weapons. It may also include orders to attend counseling or other treatment, or orders to pay restitution or fees. The EPO may also contain orders regarding custody or support payments. It is important to remember that an EPO is a civil court order and not a criminal conviction. This means that even if the defendant violates the order, they cannot be arrested or charged with a crime.
However, violation of the EPO can be used as evidence in a criminal case. Having an EPO does not guarantee safety, but it can help protect victims of abuse or violence. It can provide peace of mind and help keep abusers away. It is important to remember that an EPO is only one part of an overall safety plan, which should also include finding safe places to go, having a safety plan in place, and seeking support from family, friends, and local resources. Extended protection orders can be an invaluable resource for victims of abuse or violence. They provide legal protection from contact with an abuser and allow victims to access resources and assistance.
It is important for victims to understand their rights and responsibilities when an extended protection order is in place, and to take steps to ensure their safety. Understanding the various types of protection provided by an extended protection order, the process for obtaining them, and how to stay safe with an extended protection order can help victims of abuse or violence feel more secure in their safety and well-being.
