Protect Yourself: A Guide to Local Helplines and Resources for Protective Orders in Colorado Springs

DON'T DELAY - PROTECTIVE ORDERS WORK!

Welcome to my personal blog on protecting yourself from the dangers of domestic violence through local helplines and resources in Colorado Springs. I too am a domestic violence survivor, and it's important to know that you are not alone. Whether you are facing a difficult situation at home, struggling with your mental health, or in need of legal assistance, there are helplines and resources available to provide support and guidance.

A protective order, also known as a restraining order, is a legal document issued by a court that requires an individual to stay away from and stop all contact with the person seeking protection. In Colorado Springs, protective orders can be obtained through the El Paso County Combined Courts. The process typically involves filling out paperwork, attending a hearing, and providing evidence of the need for protection. If you are unsure of where to start, the local helplines and resources we will cover can provide guidance and support throughout the process.

There are several local helplines and resources in Colorado Springs that specialize in providing support for those seeking protective orders:

TESSA.org (719-633-3819) offers assistance with filling out protection order paperwork, shelter assistance, and arranging counsel with expert domestic violence attorneys. They also provide information on community resources and referrals for counseling services.

Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence (719-309-4751)  is another helpful resource that offers legal advocacy services for individuals seeking protective orders. They can help with filing paperwork, preparing for court hearings, and providing emotional support throughout the process.

Kingdom Builders Family Life Center (719-247-8190) is another valuable resource in Colorado Springs. They offer a 24-hour crisis hotline for those experiencing domestic violence and can provide assistance with obtaining protective orders.

They also offer counseling services and support groups for survivors of domestic violence. In addition to these helplines and resources, there are also several organizations that offer legal services specifically for those seeking protective orders. These include The Legal Aid Foundation of Colorado and The Colorado Legal Services Domestic Violence Program. These organizations can provide legal representation for individuals who cannot afford an attorney and offer guidance throughout the process of obtaining a protective order. It is important to remember that seeking a protective order can be a difficult and emotional process. However, with the support and resources available in Colorado Springs, you do not have to go through it alone.

Remember, your safety and well-being should always be a top priority. Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects many individuals and families in Colorado Springs. If you are in need of legal protection, it is important to know what resources are available to you. In this guide, we will cover local helplines and resources that can provide support and assistance for those seeking protective orders in Colorado Springs. First, it is important to understand what a protective order is and how to obtain one.

If you or someone you know is in need of legal protection from domestic violence, please reach out to one of these local helplines or resources for assistance.  If you have suggestions for additional resources in Colorado Springs that should be listed here, please email me, thank you! - Deb

The Process of Obtaining a Protective Order

If you are in a situation where you feel that you or your family is at risk of harm from someone else, it may be necessary to obtain a protective order. This is a legal document that can help protect you and your loved ones from further harm or abuse. The process of obtaining a protective order in Colorado Springs can seem intimidating, but we are here to guide you through it. Here are the steps you need to take:

1. File a petition: The first step is to file a petition with the court. This can be done at the El Paso County Courthouse or at one of the designated locations for filing protective orders.
2. Provide information: You will need to provide information about yourself and the person you are seeking protection from.

   This can include personal information, details of the abuse, and any evidence you have.

3. Temporary order: The court may grant a temporary protective order if they believe you are in immediate danger. This order will be valid until your hearing date.
4. Serve the order: Once the temporary order is granted, it must be served to the respondent (the person you are seeking protection from) by law enforcement.
5. Attend the hearing: A hearing will be scheduled within 14 days of the temporary order being served. Both parties will have the opportunity to present evidence and testimony.
6. Final order: If the court determines that there is enough evidence for a final protective order, it will be issued for a set period of time (usually one year).

Obtaining a protective order can be an important step in keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. If you need assistance or have any questions about the process, don't hesitate to reach out to one of the local helplines or resources listed in this guide. No one should have to live in fear of domestic violence.

We hope that this guide has provided you with the information and resources you need to protect yourself and your loved ones. Remember, you are not alone and help is available.