Denver Domestic Violence Lawyers — Immediate, Experienced Help in Denver District Court
Domestic violence situations move fast, and in Denver, the legal system moves with them. A temporary protection order can be issued the same day you file. A permanent order hearing is scheduled within two weeks. The gap between a prepared attorney and an unprepared one at that hearing is the difference between a permanent order on your record and a petition that doesn’t hold up. Burnham Law’s Denver domestic violence attorneys act with urgency, know Denver District Court’s protection order process thoroughly, and handle both the immediate legal crisis and the family law proceedings that often follow.
Our Denver domestic violence attorneys represent both petitioners seeking protection and respondents contesting orders — with the preparation and urgency these cases require. Browse our team below.
She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in Political Science and Criminal Justice before earning her law degree with high honors from Drake University Law School. During her time in law school, she was actively involved in several organizations, including the Children’s Rights Clinic, where she represented children in Dependency and Neglect cases, as well as the Student Bar Association and Law Review. She also gained experience as a Legal Writing Fellow and was a member of the Client Counseling Team. Before joining the Colorado bar, Ali was admitted to practice in Iowa. She worked at a general practice firm, where she gained extensive experience in family law, juvenile law, real estate, and business and estate planning. Ali is dedicated to being a compassionate and zealous advocate for her clients, recognizing the emotional and often high-conflict nature of family law, civil demand letters and probate matters. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys running, skiing, and traveling...
Allison brings a unique blend of business and legal expertise to her practice. After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Georgia, she worked full-time while attending Georgia State University College of Law in the evenings, where she earned her JD. Although born in Texas, Allison’s upbringing included time in Colorado and Georgia. After completing her education in Georgia, she decided to return to Colorado to begin her legal career. She started as a Deputy District Attorney in the 4th Judicial District, prosecuting a variety of cases from misdemeanors to sex offenses. Allison then transitioned to a role as a Senior Contracts Representative at Honeywell, where she worked closely with the United States Air Force. Since 2015, Allison has exclusively practiced family law, a field she discovered to be her true passion. She brings compassion and empathy to her work, ensuring clients understand the legal process every step of the way. While she always strives...
Annie is dedicated to helping clients navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions with clarity and compassion. Her practice focuses primarily on family law, where she represents clients in divorce, allocation of parental responsibilities, post-decree disputes, guardianships, DHS finding appeals and child-related matters. Before joining Burnham Law, Annie gained extensive experience representing clients in district court on guardianship, conservatorship, and expungement cases. From that experience, she learned to approach every case with a balance of empathy and assertiveness, understanding that family law matters are deeply personal and often contentious. Outside the office, Annie enjoys exploring Colorado’s hiking trails and discovering local thrift stores.
Barry has over 35 years of experience handling divorce, custody, parenting time, child support, maintenance, high asset property division, and post decree modification cases. Barry successfully handled the landmark case (Spahmer v. Gullette), which changed child relocation law in Colorado. The case serves as the current governing law for relocation cases in Colorado that arise as part of a divorce proceeding. Barry takes great pride in not only delivering the highest quality legal services, but also developing strong and reliable relationships with his clients. He understands how stressful it is to be involved in a divorce or family law proceeding and considers it his responsibility to take care of his clients and be their trusted advisor when resolving their legal issues.
Brooke Shafranek is an experienced family law attorney with a client-focused approach to her practice. She was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and attended North Carolina State University, where she received her bachelor’s in English and graduated as valedictorian of her graduating class. Brooke attended law school at the University of Florida, where she received several awards, honors and scholarships. Brooke has been recognized as a SuperLawyers Rising Star since 2023, and brings her passion and expertise to every family law matter. Outside of work, Brooke enjoys traveling and watching live music.
Christopher Sutton is an experienced litigator, focusing his current practice on a mix of Criminal Defense and Family Law. He brings over a decade of high-stakes courtroom experience to his practice, having spent nearly ten years as a District Attorney for El Paso County. During this time, he served for three years as a Special Victim's Attorney, handling complex cases including sex crimes, felony child abuse, and multiple homicides. This experience instilled in him a deep commitment to finding justice for clients and giving back to the community. Mr. Sutton's path to law began with a strong interest in the environment. After earning his B.A. in Biology from Washington and Lee University, he worked as an environmental scientist, identifying liabilities in properties. A key experience working on a Superfund site solidified his decision to pursue law. He earned his J.D. from the University of Denver (DU), where he concentrated on environmental and criminal law. Originally from Pottstown, PA, Christopher developed...
Cindy graduated cum laude from The Pennsylvania State University before earning her law degree from Penn State Law. During her time in law school, she gained invaluable practical experience as a student attorney for the Penn State Family Law Clinic, where she successfully represented clients on a variety of complex family law issues. Throughout her legal career, Cindy has distinguished herself as a highly skilled Family Law strategist and a zealous litigator. Her extensive experience has given her a unique ability to navigate the complexities of family law and provide powerful advocacy for her clients. Cindy understands the profound emotional and financial strain that contentious family disputes inflict on families. She is deeply committed to being a steady, supportive force during these tumultuous times. Cindy is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her clients; she provides individualized representation, developing unique and thoughtful strategies to help clients achieve their specific case objectives and find stability. Committed to...
Daniel is an experienced litigator who has solely focused on family law since 2012 and has significant experience handling complex and high-conflict cases. Daniel started practicing law at a large family law firm in Florida, where he represented hundreds of clients over the years, before moving to Colorado. He has extensive experience in virtually all areas of family law, ranging from original dissolution actions, allocation of parental responsibilities actions, relocation actions, modifications of parenting time, child support and maintenance. Daniel is a proud alum of Florida State University, where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the state with his wife and daughter.
Jennifer brings two decades of family law paralegal experience to her role as a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional. She began her legal career as a legal assistant at a well-established New York firm specializing in foster care and adoption, where her passion for supporting families and children in vulnerable circumstances took root. After dedicating time to raise a family and complete her Bachelor of Social Work, she returned to the legal environment in 2011, working with a seasoned Colorado family law attorney and further honing her skills in domestic litigation. Jennifer is proud to be part of Colorado’s inaugural class of Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals (LLPs), a groundbreaking initiative expanding access to legal services in family law. She believes in a cooperative, client-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication, practical solutions, and compassionate advocacy. Her social work background reinforces her ability to guide clients through emotionally charged legal matters with both tenacity and empathy. Outside the office, Jennifer enjoys exploring Colorado’s backcountry trails with...
Jennifer is a Partner at Burnham Law. She is an accomplished litigator with expertise in domestic relations law and is often called upon to handle complex dissolutions and post-decree matters. She received the Super Lawyers Rising Star award, a distinction that fewer than 2.5% of lawyers in the state meet. Jennifer got her start practicing criminal law as an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney and she represented clients in court throughout the state of Colorado on a daily basis. Jennifer joined Willoughby and Associates, a premier family law firm in downtown Denver, and has specialized in family law ever since. She is experienced in cases of domestic violence, restrictions and modifications of parenting time, child support, decision making, high conflict APR/dissolution cases, and both pre-decree and post-decree relocation cases. Jennifer enjoys being a source of comfort and guidance to families going through difficult times. She is sensitive to client’s needs while firmly managing their expectations. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending...
Jeremy Wooten, is a seasoned trial attorney who specializes in criminal defense and family law, leveraging a wealth of experience honed over five years at the Colorado State Public Defenders’ Office. Rising to Senior Deputy Public Defender, he successfully managed a diverse caseload, including serious charges like first-degree homicide, drug distribution, and economic crimes, always maintaining an unwavering commitment to client advocacy. Licensed in both Texas and Colorado, Jeremy's legal expertise is defined by strategic planning—meticulously crafting and executing well-thought-out trial strategies—and remarkable resourcefulness in finding innovative solutions to complex legal challenges in both the criminal and family law arenas. His practice is characterized by agile, client-centered advocacy, which relies on adaptability, active listening, and quick thinking essential for effective trial work. Jeremy prioritizes thoroughly understanding his clients' objectives and adapting his strategies dynamically to the evolving nature of trials. His resilience and strategic agility allow him to confidently navigate unexpected developments in the courtroom, ensuring each case is expertly...
Julian Rosielle has been licensed to practice law in Colorado since 2006. Julian is a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Law, where he was on the Dean’s List and an associate editor of the University of Colorado Law Review. Julian practiced exclusively in the area of criminal law for the first thirteen years of his career and has several notable case outcomes to include not guilty verdicts on charges of homicide and assault. Julian has extensive trial experience, ranging from Death Penalty cases to misdemeanor domestic violence to driving under the influence. Beginning in 2019, Julian’s practice has expanded to include domestic relations litigation and civil protection orders. Julian has lived in Colorado since 2004 and when not in Court enjoys hiking with his family and dogs.
Kaliegh is a dedicated family law attorney who understands that every family is unique. Whether she is helping clients reach an amicable solution or advocating in the courtroom, Kaliegh ensures that her clients understand the legal process and can make the best decisions for their families. Both a compassionate advisor and a zealous litigator, Kaliegh knows there is no “one size fits all” approach to representation. Kaliegh began her legal career as a staff attorney for the El Paso and Teller County Child Support Services Office. Kaliegh worked in private practice for several years before joining Burnham Law, navigating clients through divorces, child custody determinations, and post-decree modifications. Kaliegh brings a well-rounded approach centered on each client’s individual needs. In her free time, Kaliegh enjoys traveling, photography, reading, and spending time with her family.
Miguel C. Mondragon is a tenacious and dedicated attorney who is fiercely committed to his clients and their legal outcomes. Recognizing that clients facing divorce or criminal charges are often in their most vulnerable state, Miguel acts as a passionate advocate, ensuring they have a voice within the legal system. Growing up in southern Colorado, Miguel developed a strong work ethic by working in construction, lumber, and brickyards while attending college. Before becoming an attorney, his interest in law was sparked by his work within the Larimer County Corrections system. While attending the University of South Dakota School of Law, he gained valuable experience working with East River Legal Services, the Colorado State Public Defenders Office, and Samuelson Law. Upon graduation, Miguel honed his skills first as a solo practitioner, then at Weaver & Associates, P.C., before founding Mondragon Law, where he specialized in criminal defense and family law. He brings this deep experience and tenacity to his current role...
Mikayla assists clients on a variety of family law matters, such as dissolution of marriage, allocation of parental responsibilities, and child support enforcement. Mikayla began her legal career as a child support attorney for El Paso County where she helped parents obtain financial support for their children. While Mikayla has worked in private practice for a number of years, she draws on her experiences as a public child support attorney to help her current clients achieve the best possible results. Clients can expect an honest and tenacious legal advocate in Mikayla’s representation. She understands the sensitive and stressful nature of family law cases, and Mikayla will be there to guide her clients through the legal process. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and camping with her family.
Patrick has experience in the areas of family law, dependency and neglect, and juvenile delinquency. His practice currently focuses on domestic relations, dependency and neglect, and family law matters. Patrick received his Juris Doctor from the University of Colorado Law School where he earned a Juvenile and Family Law Certificate for demonstrated dedication to these fields of law. While attending CU, he also clerked for the 20th Judicial District as a judicial intern and was a student attorney with the Juvenile and Family Law Clinic, assisting low-income clients with a variety of legal issues, including adoptions, divorces, and custody disputes.
Theresa graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in political science and minor in communications in 2014. She went on to graduate third in her class at Western Michigan University Law School in 2018. While in law school she clerked for a judge in the second district court of appeals in Florida. After moving to Colorado she worked for a cannabis law firm assisting cannabis business owners with licensing and compliance/regulations. She then found her passion working in domestic relations and has practiced family law exclusively ever since. Theresa handles all issues related to custody including dependency and neglect, custody disputes, allocation of parental responsibilities, guardianship, and adoptions. Theresa also has experience with high asset cases and division of complex assets. Both in and out of the courtroom, Theresa has a reputation as a strong advocate for those she represents. She is skilled at seeing the big picture, and effectively navigates clients to their best possible outcome....
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders in Denver, Colorado
Colorado’s civil protection order system has two stages in Denver proceedings. A temporary protection order (TPO) is issued by Denver District Court on an ex parte basis — based solely on the petitioner’s sworn affidavit, without prior notice to the respondent. If the judge finds sufficient grounds, the TPO issues the same day and is served on the respondent by Denver law enforcement. The respondent must comply immediately upon service.
A permanent protection order (PPO) hearing is scheduled within 14 days of the TPO being issued. Denver District Court holds PPO hearings on a regular protection order docket. Both parties have the right to appear, present testimony and documentary evidence, call witnesses, and be represented by counsel. The judge evaluates whether the conduct described in the petition meets the legal standard for a permanent order and whether ongoing protection is warranted. A permanent protection order can restrict contact, require the respondent to vacate a shared residence, address temporary parenting arrangements, and prohibit firearm possession under federal law.
In Denver’s large, diverse population, protection order proceedings reflect a wide range of circumstances — from straightforward domestic violence situations to protection orders sought strategically in the context of contested divorce and custody proceedings. Denver District Court sees both types regularly, and judges in this court are experienced in evaluating the full factual context of each petition. Both petitioners with legitimate safety needs and respondents facing inaccurate or strategic petitions benefit significantly from experienced legal representation at the PPO hearing stage.
What Our Denver Domestic Violence Attorneys Handle
Filing for temporary protection orders on behalf of petitioners in fear for their safety or their children’s safety. We help clients prepare sworn affidavits that document the relevant conduct specifically, completely, and in a format that gives Denver District Court the information needed for same-day review.
Representing petitioners at PPO hearings to present evidence effectively, organize witness testimony, and ensure the judge has a complete, coherent account of what occurred and why permanent protection is necessary.
Representing respondents at PPO hearings when a protection order has been filed that is inaccurate, exaggerated, or motivated by tactical advantage in a divorce or custody dispute. Denver District Court provides both parties a full hearing opportunity, and respondents who are prepared with credible evidence have a genuine opportunity to contest an inaccurate petition.
Emergency custody provisions in protection orders when children are involved. Interim parenting arrangements in a protection order can establish a baseline that carries into the broader APR proceeding. We address these provisions proactively from the start.
Criminal and family law coordination when the underlying conduct has generated criminal domestic violence charges alongside the civil protection order. Civil and criminal proceedings run on separate tracks but affect each other, and Burnham Law handles both.
Modification and dismissal of protection orders when circumstances have changed, the original factual basis was insufficient, or the underlying family law dispute has been resolved.
How Denver Domestic Violence Cases Work
Protection order cases in Denver begin at Denver District Court’s filing window at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse. The petitioner submits a petition and sworn affidavit describing the conduct that supports the requested order. A judge reviews the filing — typically the same day — and issues or denies a temporary protection order. Denver law enforcement serves the TPO on the respondent, who must comply immediately and cannot contest the order until the PPO hearing.
The PPO hearing is set within 14 days of the TPO being issued. Both parties receive notice. At the hearing, each side can testify, call witnesses, present documentary evidence — text messages, emails, photographs, medical records — and cross-examine the other party. The 14-day window is short, and the preparation window it allows is exactly why engaging an attorney immediately upon learning of the proceeding is essential for respondents.
Permanent protection orders issued by Denver District Court are entered into the Colorado protection order registry, appear in background checks, and prohibit firearm possession under the federal Lautenberg Amendment. In Denver’s professional community — where background checks are routine and firearms ownership is common — these consequences extend well beyond the civil order and affect employment, professional licensing, and personal circumstances in ways that make the PPO hearing high-stakes for respondents.
Why Burnham Law for Domestic Violence Cases in Denver
Available when urgency is real. Protection order situations don’t wait for business hours. We respond quickly when clients need immediate legal action and make ourselves accessible throughout the 14-day window between TPO service and PPO hearing.
Denver District Court experience. We appear in Denver District Court’s protection order proceedings regularly — on both sides. Our familiarity with how Denver judges evaluate these cases affects how we prepare and present every hearing.
Both sides of the docket. We represent petitioners and respondents. Experience on both sides makes us better advocates regardless of which party we represent — we know how cases are built and exactly how they’re contested.
Family law and criminal defense integrated. When domestic violence issues intersect with divorce, custody, and criminal charges — common in Denver — having attorneys who handle all three is a strategic advantage that single-practice firms can’t match.
How quickly can I get a protection order in Denver?
A temporary protection order can be issued the same day you file the petition at Denver District Court if the judge finds sufficient grounds in your affidavit. The court reviews petitions on the day they are filed. Denver law enforcement serves the order on the respondent — often the same day — once it’s issued by the court.
What evidence is most effective at Denver protection order hearings?
Documentary evidence tends to be the most compelling at PPO hearings — text messages, emails, voicemails, social media communications, photographs of injuries or property damage, and medical records. This evidence is specific, timestamped, and doesn’t depend solely on the petitioner’s testimony. Witness testimony from people who observed relevant conduct or its aftermath can also be significant. Organizing and presenting this evidence effectively is where attorney preparation makes the most difference.
Can a protection order affect my divorce or custody case in Denver?
Yes, significantly. A permanent protection order creates a factual record that Denver District Court will consider in any subsequent APR determination. Colorado’s best-interests factors explicitly include domestic violence history. Interim parenting arrangements included in a protection order can establish a baseline that influences the custody proceeding. The protection order and the family law proceeding are legally distinct but practically intertwined, and representation that accounts for both from the start is more effective than treating them separately.
I’ve been falsely accused — what should I do?
Engage an attorney immediately. You have approximately 14 days until the PPO hearing — enough time to prepare effectively, but not enough to wait. Gather any documentary evidence that contradicts the petition’s claims: communications demonstrating a different account of events, evidence of the petitioner’s state of mind or motivations, witness information, and any other relevant documentation. A well-prepared respondent with credible, specific evidence has a genuine opportunity to defeat an inaccurate petition at Denver District Court.
Does a Denver protection order affect my professional license or employment?
A permanent protection order is a public court record and may appear in background checks conducted by employers, licensing boards, and professional associations. The federal Lautenberg Amendment’s prohibition on firearm possession can directly affect employment in fields requiring firearms authorization — law enforcement, security, and certain government positions. The employment and licensing implications of a permanent protection order in Denver’s professional community are real and should factor into how seriously respondents engage the PPO hearing process.
Schedule a Consultation with a Denver Domestic Violence Lawyer
Whether you need immediate protection or you’ve been served with a protection order you intend to contest, the timeline is short and the stakes are real in Denver District Court. Don’t navigate this process without experienced legal representation.
Call (303) 990-5308 or schedule a confidential consultation online. Our Denver domestic violence attorneys are available to act quickly when the situation requires it.
