In many divorce cases, especially those involving allegations of abuse, family court and criminal court can overlap in ways that dramatically affect the outcome. If you’re facing both a divorce and domestic violence charge in Colorado, choosing a single lawyer to handle both may be one of the most strategic legal decisions you make.
Two Cases, One Story
Divorce proceedings are handled in civil court, while domestic violence charges proceed through the criminal justice system. But make no mistake: these cases do not exist in isolation. Statements made in one court can influence the other. Protective orders, custody arguments, and criminal convictions can shape how property is divided, how parental responsibilities are allocated, and even where you can live.
Having separate lawyers for each case risks misalignment. A criminal defense attorney might push for a plea deal that looks reasonable in criminal court but creates devastating consequences in family court—such as loss of custody or restricted parenting time.
Unified Strategy Protects Your Rights
Here’s why having the same lawyer for both your divorce and domestic violence matters can be critical:
- Coherent messaging: One lawyer can ensure consistent testimony, filings, and legal arguments across both courtrooms.
- Efficient evidence management: Evidence presented in one case may be admissible in the other. A single lawyer can evaluate how texts, voicemails, or witness statements affect both legal fronts.
- Informed negotiation: A lawyer familiar with both cases can craft settlement offers or plea deals that minimize collateral damage.
- Protection order strategy: Colorado courts frequently issue mandatory protection orders in criminal cases, which can conflict with custody or housing needs during divorce. A lawyer who understands both systems can address those tensions early.
- Consistent communication: Managing two cases means managing a flood of information, dates, and documents. Working with one lawyer who knows every aspect of your legal battle ensures nothing gets lost or misinterpreted. It also means fewer calls, less confusion, and clearer updates—something Boal Law prioritizes with every client.
Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge in Divorce
Under Colorado law, domestic violence can significantly impact how courts view parental fitness. Even if a criminal conviction isn’t secured, the mere existence of charges may influence a family court’s assessment.
- Parental responsibilities: Judges may limit or supervise parenting time under CRS § 14-10-124, which outlines best interests of the child.
- Protection orders: These can prevent contact with a spouse or children, affecting living arrangements and communication.
- Credibility: Contradictory testimony in criminal vs. family court can erode your credibility in both.
One Lawyer. One Plan.
Boal Law is uniquely positioned to handle both divorce and domestic violence defense. As a former Deputy District Attorney in El Paso County, Brian Boal understands how criminal charges unfold—and how they influence divorce outcomes.
We provide:
- Unified courtroom representation
- Strategic planning from the start
- Coordinated management of timelines, hearings, and evidence
- A direct line of communication with your attorney—no bouncing between firms or retelling your story
If you’re navigating a breakup involving both family and criminal law, don’t risk missteps caused by a divided legal team. Choose a lawyer who sees the full picture.
Legal Systems Don’t Communicate. Your Lawyer Should.
Courts don’t coordinate with each other, but your legal strategy must. Hiring the same lawyer for both divorce and domestic violence charges gives you a voice in both courtrooms—and a plan that protects your rights at every step.
At Boal Law, we believe that clear communication isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. We make it a point to keep you informed and supported throughout the entire process. When everything is on the line, having a single lawyer who listens, communicates, and acts decisively makes all the difference.