English
EspañolWhat are the steps for getting the protection order?
The steps for getting a protection order against stalking, sexual assault, physical harm/threats and abuse of elderly/at-risk adult are similar to the steps for getting a domestic violence protection order, which you can find on our Steps for getting a domestic violence protection order page.
Am I eligible to file for this type of protection order?
Under Colorado law, you may be eligible for a protection order against someone you are not in a relationship with and not related to if you are an elderly or at-risk adult, and that person has:
- stalked you;
- committed sexual violence against you;
- made “unlawful sexual contact” with you;
- physically assaulted you or threatened you with physical harm; or
- threatened or harmed an animal owned by you or by your children.1
If you are at least 60 years old or mentally or physically incapacitated, verbal abuse or wrongful confinement can also be reasons for a protection order. See What is the legal definition of mistreatment/abuse of an elderly or at-risk adult? For more information.
1 Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 13-14-104.5(1)(a); 13-14-101(1); see Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-3-404
Can a minor file for a protection order?
Colorado law doesn’t specifically say that someone under 18 (a minor) can file for their own order without a parent. However, a parent or guardian can file for a protection order on their behalf.1
If a parent or guardian is not available, it may be possible to have someone else file on the minor’s behalf. The clerk’s office at your local courthouse should be able to tell you if they would accept a petition brought by an adult who is not the parent or guardian.
You may want to contact a legal services organization or a court clerk for more information on minors requesting protection orders. See our Colorado Finding a Lawyer and Colorado Courthouse Locations pages for contact information.
Note: You cannot get a protection order against someone who is under ten years old.2
1 Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-14-101(2.2); see Colo. R. of County Ct. Civ. P. Rule 317(c)
2 Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-14-104.5(1)(a)
