Protective orders in Colorado are enforced strictly, and one of the most common and costly mistakes people make is assuming that intent determines whether a violation occurred.
Often, it does not.
Many violations happen without anger, malice, or an attempt to cause harm. Under Colorado law, a violation can still lead to arrest, criminal charges, and serious consequences even when the person did not intend to break the rules.
What Counts as Violating a Protective Order?
In Colorado, a person commits a violation of a protective order when they knowingly violate a valid court order issued for the protection of another person. See C.R.S. § 18-6-803.5(1).
“Knowingly” does not require malicious intent or a desire to cause harm. It generally means the person was aware of the order and engaged in conduct that violated its terms.
Common examples include responding to a text message, phone call, or email; showing up at a location restricted by the order, even briefly; communicating through a third party; commenting on or interacting with social media content; asking someone else to relay a message; or appearing at a child exchange location without court authorization.
Good intentions do not cancel a violation.
“But They Contacted Me First”—Why That Still Counts
One of the most common misunderstandings is believing that contact is permitted if the protected person initiates it.
Even if the protected person reaches out, says it is “okay” to talk, or encourages communication, the restrained party remains legally obligated to follow the protective order exactly as written. Only a judge has the authority to modify or lift a protective order. See C.R.S. § 18-1-1001(5).
Agreeing to contact does not invalidate the order.
Accidental Violations Happen More Than People Expect
Some violations are genuinely unintentional. Common examples include running into the protected person at a grocery store, not realizing a particular location is restricted, forgetting that no-contact provisions often include electronic and social media communication, or misunderstanding narrow child-related exceptions written into an order.
While context may matter at sentencing, courts and law enforcement often treat these violations the same as intentional ones for charging purposes.
What Happens After a Violation Is Alleged
Violating a protective order is a separate criminal offense in Colorado. See C.R.S. § 18-6-803.5.
Potential consequences include arrest, additional criminal charges separate from the underlying case, stricter bond or release conditions, negative effects on parenting time or decision-making authority, and adverse consequences in any related criminal, domestic relations, or juvenile matter.
Even a single, brief, or non-threatening violation can significantly complicate an ongoing case.
Why Protective Order Violations Are Taken Seriously
Protective orders exist to prevent escalation and reduce the risk of harm. Courts rely on strict enforcement to make them effective.
As a result, judges have little tolerance for ambiguity, law enforcement officers often have limited discretion once a violation is reported, and the existence of a violation frequently matters more than the surrounding circumstances.
Understanding the precise terms of the order is critical.
What to Do If You Are Unsure About the Terms
If you are uncertain about what a protective order allows or prohibits, do not guess, do not rely on what the other party says, and do not test the boundaries.
Instead, read the order carefully, seek clarification from legal counsel, or request clarification or modification from the court. Proactive clarification is far safer than responding to a violation charge after the fact.
If You Have Already Been Accused of a Violation
If a violation has already occurred or you have been accused of one, it is important to take the allegation seriously immediately.
Do not assume the charge will be dismissed, that the court will “understand,” or that it will be treated as a minor issue. Early legal guidance can meaningfully affect how the situation is handled and how much long-term damage occurs.
Understanding the Rules Can Protect Your Future
Protective orders are not flexible suggestions. They are enforceable court orders with real and lasting consequences.
Whether a violation was intentional or accidental, the impact can follow you long after the incident. Knowing exactly what the order requires and respecting those boundaries can help protect your rights, your family, and your future.