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Domestic Violence

Does Self-Defense Apply in Domestic Violence Cases?

By Timothy Bussey on September 24, 2021

In Colorado, if law enforcement is called out to a domestic incident, they are required to arrest someone. While you may honestly have acted in self-defense, you may find yourself arrested, taken to the police station, booked, and in jail until you post bond – just the start of some grave consequences.

Posted in: Domestic Violence

Can a Domestic Violence Victim Refuse to Testify?

By Timothy Bussey on August 12, 2021

A statue of the blind scales of justice.

Colorado laws are tough in cases of domestic violence. If a person calls 911 due to an attack, or threat of an attack by a domestic partner, the police are dispatched to the home. Law enforcement will arrive at the door, and they are obligated to make an arrest, to one or both people involved in the incident.

Posted in: Domestic Violence

Trying to Get Back with Your Ex for Valentine’s Day?

By Timothy Bussey on February 12, 2018

Pop culture tells us that Valentine’s Day is a time for love, from romantic first dates to the rekindling of old flames. Unfortunately, for many people it can be a painful reminder of a relationship gone bad and ended through a difficult breakup. You might be tempted to reach out to your ex or make a grand gesture to try and win them back.

That’s all well and good…unless you’ve had a protection order issued against you.

Posted in: Domestic Violence

If I Am Arrested For Domestic Violence, When Will I Get Out of Jail?

By Timothy Bussey on January 9, 2017

prison-barsIf you or someone close to you is facing a domestic violence allegation in Colorado, it is an incredibly stressful situation. Once law enforcement is involved there are a couple things that you should know. This blog will detail the beginning stages of what happens when a domestic violence allegation is leveled at a person.

Will I Get Arrested?

This is a common question that we are asked here at The Bussey Law Firm. The short answer is: yes. Colorado law has a mandatory arrest provision in its law for allegations that are domestic violence in nature. Pursuant to C.R.S. § 18-6-803.6(1), when a peace officer believes he or she has established probable cause that a crime has been committed and that the crime was committed as an act of domestic violence as defined by C.R.S. § 18-6-800.3(1), the officer shall arrest the person suspected of the offense.

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Five Things Best Left Unsaid at the Thanksgiving Table

By Timothy Bussey on November 28, 2013

The Thanksgiving table is perfectly set. The turkey is tasty and tender. The mashed potatoes are just right. And then it begins – the bickering. Thanksgiving is that wonderful time of the year when families come together to express gratitude for everything we have received during the year. But, what happens at the table may be something entirely different, which is why many of us dread the conversations more than we may dread the cooking.

When it comes to maintaining peace at the Thanksgiving table, it is best to steer clear of topics that are inappropriate for the occasion. Here are five things that are best left unsaid at the Thanksgiving table:

1. Sweeping generalizations: These are always/never statements like: “You never call me back” or “You’ve always loved Jack more than you’ve loved me.” These types of statements can spark lengthy, conflict-ridden discussions, which is exactly what makes Thanksgiving a nightmare for many families.

Posted in: Domestic Violence

Arrests Made in Alleged 7-11 Car Theft and Kidnapping

By Timothy Bussey on August 26, 2013

Two people were arrested after a vehicle was allegedly stolen with a child still in the backseat. According to a KOAA news report, the car was parked at a 7-11 on South Union in Colorado Springs. The man and woman left the car running with the child inside to use the ATM in the store. The car was then allegedly stolen and left on Whitman road with the child inside, unharmed. The man and woman did not steal or kidnap the child, but they were arrested when police investigated the incident. The man faces charges of attempting to influence a public official and child abuse. The woman faces charges of obstruction and child abuse. Both had outstanding warrants.

This complicated case has so far only resulted in the arrest of the people who left the car running with a child inside. Depending on the circumstances of the case, leaving a child unattended can be considered a form of abuse. Under Colorado Statute 18-6-401: “A person commits child abuse if such person causes an injury to a child’s life or health, or permits a child to be unreasonably placed in a situation that poses a threat of injury to the child’s life or health, or engages in a continued pattern of conduct that results in malnourishment, lack of proper medical care, cruel punishment, mistreatment, or an accumulation of injuries.”

Posted in: Domestic Violence


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