Civil Protection Orders in Durango, CO — Representation for Both Sides
Whether you need a civil protection order or someone has filed one against you, the outcome depends on what happens before and during the hearing. Barrie Newberger King has represented petitioners and respondents in protection order cases across Southwest Colorado for over 12 years. A Georgetown Law graduate and former Deputy Public Defender, she has worked both sides of Colorado's court system.
Barrie Handles Both Sides of a Civil Protection Order
Most attorneys take only one side of a protection order case. Barrie represents both petitioners seeking protection and respondents contesting an order. That experience on both sides means she understands what the court looks for and where the weaknesses in each position typically appear.
Obtaining a protection order
For the person seeking protection, Barrie starts with a consultation on whether the facts support a civil protection order under Colorado law. She assists with the paperwork, coordinates service on the restrained party and represents petitioners at both the temporary and permanent hearings. Throughout the process, she evaluates which evidence is strongest for each stage, not just for the initial filing.
Defending against a protection order
For the respondent, the priority is the permanent order hearing. Barrie analyzes the basis for the petition, identifies evidence that contradicts or contextualizes the allegations and builds a defense around the legal standard the petitioner must meet. A temporary order is issued without the respondent present. The
permanent hearing is the first real opportunity to present a defense. Barrie knows that standard, and she knows where to contest it. Her background as a former Deputy Public Defender means she has spent years working both sides of Colorado's court system, including the La Plata County courts that handle civil protection order cases in this region.
How Colorado's Civil Protection Order Process Works
Colorado uses a two-step process for civil protection orders. The first step is the temporary order, issued quickly and without both parties present. The second is the permanent order hearing, where both sides can appear and present their case. Understanding what each stage requires is important regardless of which side you are on.
Colorado's Two-Step Protection Order Process at a Glance
| Temporary Order (TPO) | Permanent Order (PPO) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is present | Petitioner only (ex parte) | Both parties present |
| How it is issued | Same-day by judge, no hearing | After full evidentiary hearing |
| Timeline | Issued immediately upon filing | Scheduled within 14 days of TPO |
| What is decided | Immediate protection granted | Long-term restrictions confirmed |
The temporary protection order hearing
The petitioner files a request with the court and, if the judge finds imminent danger, a temporary protection order is issued the same day. The process is ex parte, meaning the respondent is not present. Once issued, the respondent must be personally served with a copy of the order. The court must schedule the permanent order hearing within 14 days of the temporary order being issued. Self-representation forms are available through the Colorado Judicial Branch for those who choose to proceed without an attorney.
What it takes for a protection order to become permanent
At the permanent hearing, both parties are present and can present evidence and call witnesses. The petitioner must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the alleged acts occurred and that, without the order, they are likely to continue. The court does not require a showing of imminent danger at the permanent hearing, only at the temporary stage. A permanent protection order has no automatic expiration date once issued.
Talk to Barrie Before Your Hearing
Protection order hearings move quickly in Colorado. A confidential consultation with Barrie gives you a clear picture of where you stand and what to do before you walk into that courtroom. Barrie has helped clients in Durango, Cortez, Pagosa Springs, Bayfield, Ignacio, Mancos, Silverton, Dove Creek and Dolores.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The filing fee is $85. Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking pay no fee. Barrie can confirm what applies to your situation.
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A permanent protection order has no expiration date. A restrained party can request removal no earlier than two years after the order was made permanent.
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A violation is a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 120 days in jail. Consequences apply from the moment the order is served.