Colorado Protection Orders: Your Complete Guide to Obtaining and Enforcing Legal Protection
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 now.
For confidential support:
- Colorado Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-844-264-7877 (24/7, free, confidential)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
- TESSA (Colorado Springs): 719-633-3819
- Colorado Crisis Services: 1-844-493-8255
Protection orders save lives. If you’re researching how to obtain a protective order in Colorado, you’re taking an important step toward safety. Whether you’re experiencing domestic violence, stalking, or abuse, Colorado law provides immediate legal protection through court orders that restrict your abuser’s behavior and create serious criminal consequences for violations.
As your legal bestie at Baxter Family Law in Colorado Springs, we understand that navigating the protection order process feels overwhelming when you’re already dealing with fear and trauma. This guide walks you through exactly how Colorado’s protection order system works, what protections you can request, and how to enforce violations. Unlike situations where co-parenting after divorce might work, cases requiring a protection order from the court usually demand immediate action and a comprehensive legal strategy.
Understanding Protection Orders in Colorado: What You Need to Know
Colorado uses several terms interchangeably—”protection order,” “protective order,” and “restraining order” all refer to the same legal tool. These are court orders that restrict an abuser’s behavior to keep you safe. When someone violates a protection order, they face criminal penalties including arrest, jail time, and fines. The order becomes part of a national database accessible to law enforcement across the country.
Colorado’s civil protection order system is designed to be accessible without an attorney, though legal representation significantly improves outcomes. There are no filing fees, and the process prioritizes getting you immediate protection—often the same day you file.
Civil Protection Orders vs. Mandatory Protection Orders: Critical Differences
Understanding the difference between these two types is critical because you may benefit from having both.
Civil Protection Orders – YOU Control These:
YOU file civil court orders yourself at the courthouse. This gives you control over what protections to request: no-contact directives, stay-away orders from your home and workplace, temporary custody of children, exclusive use of your residence, return of personal property, and firearm surrender. The order can be modified or dismissed later at your request. These orders are available for domestic violence, stalking, sexual abuse, and elder abuse. Learn more about leaving abusive relationships safely.
Mandatory Protection Orders – The Criminal Court Issues These:
Criminal courts issue these automatically when someone is arrested for domestic violence. Prosecutors control these orders as part of the criminal case, meaning you don’t file for them yourself. Criminal charges and these orders cannot be dropped by the victim—only prosecutors can dismiss them.
CRITICAL: Having a mandatory protection order does NOT prevent you from ALSO filing for a civil protection order. Many survivors need both for maximum protection. Review CRS 13-14-101 for civil protection orders and CRS 18-6-803.5 for mandatory orders.
Who Can Get a Protection Order in Colorado
Protection orders are available for people in specific relationships, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or marital status. All relationships receive equal protection under Colorado law.
Relationships Covered by Colorado Protection Orders
You can obtain a protection order against someone regardless of your relationship with them. This includes:
- Current or former intimate partners – married, dating, engaged, or romantic relationships (including same-sex couples)
- People who live together or lived together – roommates, household members, former cohabitants
- People who share a child together – even without marriage or romantic relationship
- Family members – related by blood or marriage, including parents, siblings, grandparents, in-laws, step-family (including a step-child)
- Anyone else – neighbors, former clients, coworkers, aquaintances, or strangers
Protection orders are not limited to domestic relationships in Colorado.
If you’re concerned about custody implications, understanding your custodial rights in Colorado is essential. Protection orders frequently include temporary custody provisions.
Types of Abuse That Qualify for Protection Orders
You do NOT need visible injuries, police reports, or physical violence to obtain a protection order. Colorado recognizes multiple forms of abuse under CRS 18-6-800.3:
- Physical violence and threats – hitting, pushing, choking, restraining, threatening harm
- Emotional and psychological abuse – constant criticism, gaslighting, threats, property destruction, isolation
- Financial control – controlling money, preventing work, hiding assets, creating debt
- Sexual violence – forcing unwanted sexual activity, reproductive coercion
- Stalking and harassment – A Victim of stalking includes anyone experiencing following, monitoring, unwanted contact, or technology surveillance
IMPORTANT NOTE: While Colorado law recognizes emotional and psychological abuse, financial control, and other non-physical forms of abuse, proving these types of abuse without physical evidence can be difficult. Courts typically require strong documentation and evidence for protection ordersbased primarily on non-physical abuse.
Courts examine the pattern of coercive control—ongoing tactics used to dominate and control an intimate partner. If behaviors match those in our guide on leaving a narcissistic relationship, you may qualify for legal protection.
How to File for a Protection Order in Colorado: Step-by-Step
Filing for a protection order is designed to be accessible, though having a legal aid or attorney significantly improves your chances of comprehensive protection. Here’s the complete process from filing through your permanent order hearing.
The Filing Process at Your County Courthouse
Step 1: Go to your county courthouse during business hours – no appointment needed, completely free (no filing fees).
Step 2: The petitioner requests protection order forms from the clerk – also available online through Colorado Judicial Branch. Forms available in Spanish and other languages.
Step 3: Complete the petition carefully – describe abuse with specific dates, times, and detailed incidents. Include witness information. List all protections you’re requesting. Attach supporting evidence (photos, texts, medical records, police reports).
Step 4: File with the court clerk – receive your case number and keep copies.
Step 5: See a judge (typically same day) – if the judge finds credible danger, they may provide a temporary protection order immediately, effective until your hearing (typically 14 days).
Step 6: Sheriff serves the respondent – you cannot serve papers yourself. Service must occur before the permanent hearing. Review safe service strategies if also filing for divorce.
Step 7: Attend permanent order hearing within 14 days – On this hearing date, both parties testify and present evidence. Judge decides based on “preponderance of evidence” (more likely than not). Courts provide separate waiting areas for safety.
What to Bring to the Courthouse
Essential items:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Evidence of abuse (photos of injuries, threatening texts/emails, medical records, police reports)
- Witness contact information
- Children’s school/daycare addresses
- Your workplace address
- List of locations needing stay-away provisions
- Attorney contact information if you have representation
Do You Need an Attorney to File for a Protection Order?
You can file without an attorney, but legal representation significantly improves outcomes. Attorneys know how to properly ask the court for help, the legal language judges expect, present evidence strategically, request comprehensive protections most people miss, prepare you for cross-examination, and anticipate manipulation tactics.
Free and low-cost resources:
- Colorado Legal Services (303-837-1313) – free help for low-income survivors
- Self-Help Centers at courthouses – free form assistance
- TESSA (719-633-3819) – help with forms and court accompaniment
- Pro bono programs through bar associations
Contact Baxter Family Law for trauma-informed representation that understands domestic violence dynamics.
What a Colorado Protection Order Can Include: Your Legal Protections
Colorado protection orders are powerful legal tools with multiple provisions tailored to your situation. Understanding what you can request ensures comprehensive protection.
Standard Provisions in Protection Orders
No-contact directives – prohibits all contact: phone calls, texts, emails, social media, through third parties, or in person. Applies 24/7 even if you both want contact.
Stay-away orders – respondent must stay specific distance (typically 100 yards) from your home, workplace, children’s schools, places you frequent, and your vehicle.
Exclusive use of shared residence – court can order abuser to leave your home immediately, even if they own it or pay the mortgage. Police supervise them collecting belongings.
Temporary custody of children – prevents abuser from taking children while establishing permanent arrangements. Custodial rights and co-parenting considerations differ when domestic violence is present.
Return of personal property – court orders return of your car, phone, documents, clothing, children’s items. Police supervise exchanges.
Mandatory firearm surrender – Colorado law requires surrendering ALL firearms and ammunition to law enforcement. Cannot purchase guns while order is active. Review CRS 18-6-801.
Additional Protections You Can Request
Don’t overlook these important provisions:
- Pet protection – Colorado recognizes pet abuse as control tactic
- Restitution – payment for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages
- Supervised visitation – neutral third party or supervised center
- Communication protocols – parenting apps only for matters related to a minor child
- Stay-away from children’s activities – school events, sports, performances
- No vehicle proximity – prevents tracking or confrontations
- Asset protection – prohibits transferring or hiding marital property if divorce pending
Be thorough—judges can’t grant protections you don’t request.
Temporary vs. Permanent Protection Orders: Understanding the Timeline
Understanding the timeline and differences between temporary and permanent orders helps you know what to expect throughout the process.
How Temporary Protection Orders Work
Temporary orders are granted the same day you file if the judge finds credible danger. They’re effective immediately and last until your permanent hearing (14 days typically). The respondent doesn’t need to be present when issued, but must be personally served before violations become arrestable offenses. Carry certified copies everywhere and take a photo on your phone as backup.
The Permanent Protection Order Hearing: What to Expect
Both parties present evidence and testimony at a hearing within 14 days. Courts provide separate waiting areas and security. You must prove by preponderance of evidence that abuse occurred and you need ongoing protection. Judges look for credible testimony with specific details, corroborating evidence, and patterns of abuse over time.
If the respondent has an attorney, expect aggressive cross-examination. Our guide on divorcing a narcissist explains how abusers present differently in court—judges recognize these patterns, but you need effective representation.
What “Permanent” Actually Means in Colorado
“Permanent” orders have no automatic expiration date—they last indefinitely until a judge dismisses them. Respondents can request dismissal after two years, but you have the right to object. Courts consider whether treatment was completed, violations occurred, behavior changed, and you still fear harm. The order stays in effect even if you reconcile until your request to modify the order or the court officially dismisses it. Learn more at Colorado Judicial Branch protection order resources.
After You Get Your Protection Order: Keeping Yourself Safe
Obtaining the order is just the beginning. Once the order is issued, using it effectively maximizes your protection and safety.
Essential Steps Once Your Order Is Granted
Carry your order everywhere – keep certified copies with you and photo on your phone. Memorize your case number.
Distribute copies- You can submit copies to your work (security, HR, supervisor), children’s schools and daycare, landlord or trusted neighbors where you reside, family you visit, and your attorney.
File with law enforcement (optional but recommended) – speeds response if violations occur.
Document everything – keep detailed journal of any contact attempts or violations with dates, times, locations, and witnesses. Save all texts, voicemails, emails. Don’t delete blocked messages—screenshot and save them.
What to Do If Your Protection Order Is Violated
Call 911 immediately if respondent contacts you, appears at prohibited locations, or violates any provision. State clearly: “I have a protection order and it’s being violated.”
Law enforcement MUST arrest violators in Colorado. Each violation is a separate crime with penalties including jail time and fines. Violations prove ongoing danger and support keeping the order long-term.
DO NOT:
- Confront the abuser yourself
- Respond to contact attempts (even to tell them to stop)
- Agree to meet “just to talk”
- Feel guilty about calling police
Document violations thoroughly – write down what happened, get police report number, screenshot electronic evidence, take photos if safe. Each documented violation creates criminal consequences and proves continued need for protection. Review documentation strategies when dealing with manipulative people.
Modifying Your Protection Order When Your Needs Change
Life changes require order modifications. Common reasons include: new residence or job, children’s new schools, new romantic partner needing protection, escalating behavior, or new pets.
File a motion to modify with the court. Provide specific reasons and evidence supporting changes. Court may hold a hearing depending on modifications requested. Consider attorney help for major changes.
Communication When You Share Children
For parents sharing children, courts can order communication only through approved methods about child-related matters only:
- Parenting apps (OurFamilyWizard, TalkingParents) – documented, monitored
- Email only for child topics
- Through attorneys for high-conflict situations
Keep messages brief, informative, friendly, and firm. Never discuss personal topics, the relationship, or legal matters. Review co-parenting with protection orders – traditional co-parenting doesn’t work with domestic violence.
If you want to reconcile: File a motion to modify or dismiss. Never just ignore the order—violations of the order are still crimes once both parties have been served with a copy, even with mutual consent. Judge ensures you’re not coerced and dismissal serves your interests.
Special Types of Protection Orders in Colorado
IMPORTANT NOTE: Civil protection orders in Colorado (CRS 13-14-101) cover domestic abuse, stalking, unlawful sexual behavior, and elder abuse under a single statute. The relationship between parties does not determine whether you can obtain a protection order-what matters is the type of abuse or behavior you’re experiencing.
Extreme Risk Protection Orders (Colorado’s “Red Flag Law”)
For situations involving firearm threats, law enforcement or family members can file for Extreme Risk Protection Orders allowing temporary firearm removal from dangerous individuals. These are separate from civil protection orders but can be used together. Review [CRS 13-14.5-103].”
Civil Stalking Protection Orders
Available against strangers, acquaintances, coworkers, or neighbors who don’t fit domestic relationship requirements. Must show credible threat and pattern of stalking behavior. Similar process and provisions to domestic violence orders.
Protection Orders for Elder Abuse and Exploitation
Protects vulnerable adults 60+ from physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, or abandonment. Can be filed by the elder person or on their behalf by family, caregivers, or Adult Protective Services. May involve coordination with Adult Protective Services.
Protection Orders for Sexual Assault Survivors
Available even without criminal charges or police reports against perpetrators who sexually assaulted you, regardless of relationship. Confidential support through TESSA Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 719-633-3819.
Protection Orders in Divorce and Child Custody Cases
When domestic violence exists, protection orders significantly impact divorce proceedings and custody determinations. Understanding these intersections helps you protect both your safety and your legal rights.
Filing for Protection Orders and Divorce Simultaneously
You can and often should file for both. Protection orders provide immediate safety while divorce addresses long-term property, support, and custody. They’re separate cases working together on different timelines—protection orders can be obtained same day; divorce takes minimum 91 days.
How protection orders affect divorce:
- Exclusive use of home establishes living arrangements during proceedings
- Prevents service-related danger (sheriff handles service)
- Courts provide safety accommodations (separate waiting areas, staggered times, security escorts, video testimony)
- Evidence strengthens divorce case for custody and property division
Review strategies for leaving abusive relationships safely and divorcing narcissists for high-conflict cases. For military families, see military divorce in Colorado Springs.
How Protection Orders Impact Child Custody Decisions
Colorado courts take domestic violence very seriously in custody decisions. Protection orders demonstrate abuse occurred and support custody restrictions including:
Parenting time restrictions:
- Supervised visitation at professional centers or with approved supervisors
- Neutral public exchange locations
- No direct contact except through approved communication about children
- Children cannot be messengers
Temporary custody in protection orders prevents abuser from taking children while permanent arrangements are established. Violations particularly damage abuser’s custody case by showing disregard for court authority.
Understanding custodial rights in Colorado is essential when domestic violence is present. Courts recognize children witnessing abuse are themselves victims.
When Children Need Protection Too
Protection orders can include children as protected parties, restricting abuser’s contact except during court-ordered parenting time. Provide certified copies to schools, daycare, after-school programs, and coaches. Update emergency contact lists removing abusive parent.
Have age-appropriate conversations with children about the order without frightening them. They shouldn’t feel responsible for enforcement- that’s for adults and law enforcement. Review protecting children when leaving abuse.
Common Questions About Colorado Protection Orders
“Can I get a protection order if we’re not married?”
Absolutely. Marriage is NOT required. Protection orders cover dating relationships, people who lived together, people who share a child, and same-sex relationships. LGBTQ+ individuals have equal protection. Affirming legal services understand your specific needs.
“What if we have children together? Can I still get a protection order?”
Yes, and having children makes protection even more important. Courts balance protecting you and children while allowing safe parent-child relationships when possible through supervised visitation, neutral exchanges, and approved communication methods about children only. Children’s safety is the court’s top priority. Review custodial rights with domestic violence.
“Can I drop my protection order later if we reconcile?”
You can request dismissal anytime by filing a motion. The court holds a hearing ensuring you’re not coerced and dismissal serves your interests. Judges may deny dismissal if evidence shows ongoing danger, even if you request it. Never just ignore the order—violations are still crimes even with mutual consent.
“What if my abuser files for a protection order against me?”
This is a common manipulation tactic. You need an attorney immediately. Courts scrutinize “cross-petitions” carefully to identify the predominant aggressor based on who initiated violence, patterns of control, relative severity, history, and fear. Don’t assume courts will automatically see you’re the victim—abusers can be convincing. Review manipulation tactics.
“Will my protection order show up on background checks?”
Yes, protection orders are public record and appear in background checks. This protects future partners who might search the abuser’s history. Your personal information (home address, contact info) remains confidential. The order affects the abuser’s employment, gun ownership, professional licenses, and housing.
“Can I get a protection order against my landlord? Boss? Neighbor?”
It depends. Domestic violence protection orders require specific relationships. For landlord harassment, contact housing authorities. For workplace harassment, contact HR or EEOC. For neighbor disputes, consider civil harassment orders. Stalking protection orders may apply regardless of relationship if stalking behavior exists.
Resources and Support for Protection Order Assistance
Free Legal Help in Colorado
Colorado Legal Services (303-837-1313) – free legal assistance for low-income survivors: coloradolegalservices.org
Self-Help Centers at courthouses – free form assistance and procedural guidance
Pro bono programs through bar associations – volunteer attorneys
Domestic violence advocates – help complete forms, court accompaniment, safety planning
Domestic Violence Support and Advocacy in Colorado
Organizations ready to help:
24/7 Hotlines (confidential and free):
- Colorado Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-844-264-7877
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
- Colorado Crisis Services: 1-844-493-8255
Colorado Springs: TESSA – 24/7 Crisis Line: 719-633-3819 – emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, support groups, children’s programs: tessacs.org
Statewide: Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence – referrals to local programs
Review comprehensive resource list for leaving abusive relationships.
Emergency and Safety Resources
Immediate help when you need it:
In immediate danger – call 911. Tell dispatcher about your protection order.
Emergency shelter: Call Colorado Domestic Violence Hotline (1-844-264-7877) or TESSA (719-633-3819) for safe, confidential housing, safety planning, legal advocacy, counseling, children’s services, and case management. All services free and confidential.
.
Why Legal Representation Matters for Protection Orders
When You Absolutely Need an Attorney
Hire an attorney immediately if: abuser has attorney, complex custody issues, significant assets, criminal charges pending, prior protection orders exist, violations need enforcement, false allegations made, facing cross-petition, immigration concerns, military service complications, filing for divorce simultaneously, or child safety requires immediate intervention.
How Baxter Family Law Helps with Protection Orders
Our trauma-informed approach provides: understanding of domestic violence dynamics, experience with Colorado protection order law, strategic evidence presentation, thorough hearing preparation, anticipation of manipulation tactics, comprehensive protection requests, criminal case coordination, strong violation enforcement, modifications as situations change, and integration with divorce/custody cases.
We regularly represent clients dealing with narcissistic or manipulative ex-partners. Review our guide on divorcing a narcissist for specialized knowledge of manipulation tactics.
What to Expect in Your Consultation with Us
Come prepared to discuss: Your situation honestly, abuse history, prior police involvement, children’s safety, immediate concerns, and goals.
We’ll explain: Whether protection orders are right for your situation, what protections you can request, timeline and process, what happens at hearings, how we can help, fee structure and payment options, and safety planning with legal strategy.
This consultation is confidential. Attorney-client privilege protects our conversations. We provide a safe, judgment-free environment. We believe you and understand what you’re facing.
Protection Orders Save Lives
If you’re reading this guide, you’re already taking important steps toward safety. Protection orders provide immediate safety, establish consequences for continued abuse, and give you legal backing to reclaim your life.
Remember these essential truths:
- You don’t have to face this alone. Attorneys, advocates, and support services exist specifically to help survivors navigate protection orders and safety planning.
- Colorado law is on your side. The state has comprehensive protections for domestic violence, stalking, and abuse survivors. Courts take protection orders seriously.
- Acting quickly matters. The sooner you have legal protection, the safer you’ll be. Don’t wait for escalation.
- Professional help makes a significant difference. Experienced legal representation substantially improves outcomes and ensures comprehensive protection.
- Protection orders work. They provide legal consequences for abuse, involve law enforcement in your safety, and give you tools to rebuild your life.
Whether you need help filing your first protection order, enforcing violations, modifying protections, or integrating orders with divorce and custody, Baxter Family Law is here to help. As your legal bestie, we understand the courage it takes to seek protection and the comprehensive strategy needed to keep you safe.
Don’t wait for abuse to escalate. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Emergency Resources – Save These Numbers:
- 911 – immediate danger
- Colorado Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-844-264-7877
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
- TESSA (Colorado Springs): 719-633-3819
- Colorado Crisis Services: 1-844-493-8255
Your safety matters. Your children’s safety matters. Let us help you take the legal steps necessary to protect what matters most.
Disclaimer: This article provides general legal information and should not be construed as specific legal advice. Every situation is unique and requires individualized assessment by qualified legal counsel. Attorney-client privilege is not established by reading this article. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or contact your local domestic violence hotline immediately.
