The county court "Domestic Violence Fast Track Program” (Fast Track) was developed to ensure that both the victim and the accused receive a speedy hearing in court. Under Colorado’s domestic violence mandatory arrest policy (18-6-803.7), if an officer finds probable cause to believe domestic violence has occurred he/she must arrest the offender and transport them to jail for booking. The defendant appears in court the day following the offense.
A Notice to Appear is given to the victim requesting their presence the same day the defendant appears.Being present at court allows victims to:
- receive immediate support
- request special conditions for bond
- leave with a copy of their mandatory protection order (MPO)
- meet with a deputy district attorney
- discuss a possible disposition of their case
- begin safety planning with a victim advocate
The Fast Track program strengthens victim safety by holding the offender responsible quickly and effectively.Under this program misdemeanor domestic violence cases receive the quick response they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my rights as a victim?
Will the defendant be taken to jail?
How will I know if the defendant is released from jail?
Where should I go if I am afraid of the defendant?
Do I need to appear at the District Attorney's Office?
Where is the County Courthouse located?
Is childcare available during this meeting?
What if it is impossible for me to attend?
Will I be able to get a no-contact orer?
What happens during the defendant's first appearance?
What is an Arraignment?
Is there assistance available to help pay for medical bills and counseling?
Will I have to testify?
What if I do not want to testify?
What are the possible outcomes of this case?
How long is the domestic violence-counseling program and is it expensive?
Will the defendant have restrictions on weapons?
Will the defendant have anyrestrictions on alcohol?
Do I need an attorney?
What are my rights as a victim?
You have the right under the Constitution of the State of Colorado, to be informed of the critical stages of the criminal justice process. Furthermore, your views will be considered in regards to any continuances and you have the right to be heard during bond reduction hearings, acceptances of plea negotiations, or sentencing. (Victim’s Rights Brochure)
Will the defendant be taken to jail?
In most cases, the defendant will be taken to jail. In the 18th Judicial District, a defendant may not bond prior to advisement by a judge.
How will I know if the defendant is released from jail?
You may contact the detention facility and request to be notified when the defendant is released from custody. The automated VOICE system will contact you when the defendant is released.
Arapahoe County 720-874-3500
Douglas County 303-660-7559
Elbert County 303-621-2027
Lincoln County 719-743-2426
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Where should I go if I am afraid of the defendant?
If you do not feel safe, you may want to go to a shelter. You can tell the officer who responded or call:
Gateway Women's Shelter in Arapahoe County 303-343-1851.
Project Safeguard (legal advocates) 303-344-9016
Women's Crisis and Family Outreach Center
Douglas and Elbert Counties 303-688-8484 or 1-800-247-7472
Lincoln County Resource Center 719-743-2889
Do I need to appear at the District Attorney's Office?
Yes, it is important for you to appear at the District Attorney's Office as the Notice to Appear instructs. You will be meeting with the Fast Track Assistant who will provide you additional information and ask for your input in resolving the case. It will be your choice if you want to attend the defendant's hearing at the courthouse.
Where is the County Courthouse located?
Read the Notice to Appear carefully. It contains the address and time you are requested to appear.
The Arapahoe County Courthouse, Littleton is located at 1790 W. Littleton Blvd. in Littleton.
The Arapahoe County Courthouse, Aurora is located at 15400 East 14th Place; near Colfax and Chambers.
The Douglas County Courthouse is located at 4000 Justice Way, Suite 2250 in Castle Rock.
The District Attorney’s Office is located at 751 Ute Street in Kiowa.
The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office is located at 103 Third Avenue in Hugo
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Is childcare available during this meeting?
We do not provide childcare, but you may bring your children with you if you do not have someone to watch them.
What if it is impossible for me to attend?
If you are unable to appear at the District Attorney's office, you must call the Fast Track Assistant by 8:30 a.m.
Arapahoe County, Aurora 303-636-2008
Arapahoe County, Littleton 303-734-5260
Douglas County 303-814-7136
Elbert County &bsp; 303-621-2875
Lincoln County 719-743-2223
Will I be able to get a no-contact order?
When the defendant is arraigned, a "No Contact Order” is put into place. When you meet with the Fast Track Assistant, you may request a modification to the no contact order.
What happens during the defendant's first appearance?
The defendant will be informed of his/her rights and the Judge will review the bond requirements for change if bond has not already been established. Bonds may have specific conditions attached to them and you have the right to be present during this hearing and give your input.
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What is an Arraignment?
During this hearing, the Judge reads the defendant the charge(s) and asks him/her to enter a guilty or not guilty plea. If the defendant enters a guilty plea, the Judge will clarify his/her understanding of the charge(s) and will explain the possible punishment. The defendant may be sentenced at a later time. If the defendant enters a not guilty plea, future court dates will be set.
Is there assistance available to help pay for medical bills and counseling?
Yes, you may be eligible for help from a fund called Crime Victim Compensation. They provide assistance with medical and hospital expenses, counseling, some property damage, and other expenses you may have experienced as a result of the incident. The Fast Track Assistant will give you more information and help you with applying for this fund at the first hearing.
Will I have to testify?
Depending on what happens with the case, we may need you to testify. However, if this case goes to trial the Victim Witness Assistant will be there to support you and the District Attorney will talk with you about testifying.
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What if I do not want to testify?
We will try to make this experience as easy as possible. You will be asked to tell the truth about what happened during the incident. Your testimony is very important in helping resolve this case.
What are the possible outcomes of this case?
If the defendant enters a plea of guilty or is found guilty in court, he/she may be ordered to into a domestic violence-counseling program and may be ordered into a substance abuse treatment program. In addition the defendant may be on probation, serve jail time, pay a fine or some combination. A sentence will depend on the Victim's input, the defendant's criminal history, and what occurred during the incident.
How long is the domestic violence-counseling program and is it expensive?
Defendants are ordered into a minimum of 36 weeks of treatment for the length of their probation sentence. These programs are based on a sliding fee scale and the cost depends on the defendant’s income.
Will the defendant have restrictions on weapons?
The defendant will be prohibited from having possession of any firearms, destructive devices, illegal weapons, or other dangerous weapons during the period in which the Court has jurisdiction over him/her.
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Will the defendant have any restrictions on alcohol?
The defendant may be prohibited from using alcohol, drugs, or any controlled substance in an excessive or abusive manner, and from using any narcotic or dangerous drug or controlled substance without a prescription.
Do I need an attorney?
A deputy district attorney represents the state during the criminal case. If you have questions about custody issues, divorce, or other legal issues you may contact a private attorney. If you are not sure what help you need or if you cannot afford an attorney, you might consider contacting a non-profit victim assistance organization such as the previously listed agencies. They cannot give legal advice, but they offer restraining order clinics, court advocacy and accompaniment, and information on divorce and custody.
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