If you live or work in Colorado, you may have heard the term “mandatory reporter” in conversations about child safety. But many people don’t fully understand what this means—or how serious the consequences can be for not following the law. At Path Forward Legal, we help people understand how Colorado’s child abuse laws work. Often,...Read More

If you have a court date coming up—especially in places like Castle Rock, Parker, or Denver—you might be wondering what to wear. The old advice used to be something like “dress like you’re going to church or Sunday dinner at grandma’s.” While there’s still some truth in that, times have changed. Today, the most important...Read More

If you’ve already gone to court without a lawyer, you’re not alone—and it’s not too late to get legal help. At Path Forward Legal, we often hear from people who attended their first hearing thinking they could handle things on their own, only to realize how complex and overwhelming the process really is. The good...Read More

If you’re facing criminal charges in Colorado, one of your first questions might be: “Will my employer find out?” It’s a valid concern. Whether you’re worried about your reputation, your job security, or mandatory reporting in your industry, knowing how criminal charges become visible—or stay private—can help you make informed decisions. Here’s what you need...Read More

If you’ve recently received a ticket or summons, you might have noticed the letters “FAC” listed as your courtroom. This can cause confusion, especially if it’s your first time dealing with the criminal justice system in Colorado. So, what does “FAC” mean—and what should you expect? “FAC” Stands for “First Appearance Center” In many Colorado...Read More

Facing criminal charges in Colorado? Understand how mandatory protection orders work, why they exist, and what they mean for your rights and future. Table of ContentsWhat Is a Mandatory Protection Order?Purpose:Who is covered? Why Does Colorado Require These Orders?The Federal “Brady” Law & Firearm RestrictionsHow does this affect a defendant?What Does the Order Actually Say? (Terms...Read More

Arrested for domestic violence in Colorado? Here’s exactly what to expect next—and how to protect your rights at every step. Table of Contents1. Immediate Aftermath: The ArrestWhat Triggers a Domestic Violence Arrest?2. Booking and Jail Procedures3. Mandatory Jail Hold: Why You Can’t Leave Right Away4. Bond and Jail ReleaseWhen Can I Get Out of Jail?Setting...Read More

Being accused of sexual assault in Colorado is frightening—especially if you know the allegations aren’t true. Many people are shocked to learn just how little it takes for police to make an arrest in these cases. You might wonder: “Can I really be arrested just because someone accused me?” Here’s what you need to know...Read More

If you’re facing criminal charges in Colorado and have a release condition (sometimes called a “no-contact order” or a “protection order”) that says you can’t return to your home or have contact with the alleged victim, it’s natural to feel confused—especially if your partner or family member is now asking you to come back. Here’s...Read More

1. “I was nervous or overwhelmed.” You’re not alone. Most people don’t plan on needing a criminal defense attorney, and it can feel overwhelming to talk about it—especially with someone you’ve never met. That’s exactly why our consultations are designed to be low-pressure, private, and focused on helping you understand your options. We know how...Read More