Legal Question in Family Law in Colorado
Mentally Abusive ex-boyfriend
I have broken up with a boyfriend of a off & on 4 yr. relationship. I have gotten my own place now. I took all my personal belongings & he told me to take a couch, love seat & chair, said I deserved at least that. Now he says he's filed a police report saying I stole it an I'm afraid of him, of losing my job because of it, I don't know what rights, if any, I have. He's done this to me over & over. Makes me feel guilty by threats of getting me fired, etc. So, I move back. Each time it just gets worse. The mental abuse, he has me so brain washed & scared. I don't know what to do. This time when I left, it was after he threatened to hit me. I just want him to leave me alone and stop threatening to sue me and make me lose my job. Do I have any rights here? Thank you.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Mentally Abusive ex-boyfriend
The scenario you are describing is a familiar one, that of the cycle of violence. In brief, one of the parties threatens or harms the other party, they split up, and then the other party says he's sorry and won't ever do it again. The next time something happens, though, it's generally a little bit more violent or threatening. It sounds like this may be happening in your situation, and I would urge you to get help in this area of your life, such as contacting a local battered womens' shelter or a law enforcement agency who might be able to refer you to another agency that might be able to assist you.
From a legal standpoint, you may be able to apply for a protection order. Generally, in order to get a permanent protection order, you must be able to show to the Judge that you are in threat of physical harm if the order does not enter, however it also depends on what Judge you have as to how lenient they may be.
If nothing else, I strongly encourage you to reach out to someone who can help you get out of this relationship before it does turn violent. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss get a restraining order.
Best of luck to you.
Sincerely,
Christine C. Nierenz, Esq.