Family Resource Guide
A comprehensive guide for families of adults accused, charged, or convicted of sexual offenses in Colorado.
In response to concerns raised by family members to the Colorado Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB), the SOMB Family Education, Engagement & Support Workgroup created this guide to help families navigate every stage of the legal process when a loved one is accused, charged, or convicted of a sexual offense in Colorado.
The workgroup is facilitated by family members and includes registered citizens, advocates, therapists, parole and probation representatives, and SOMB members and staff.
“The beginning point in the process is one where you may feel totally alone. No one you know has something like this going on. And it’s the beginning of a process where you often feel the need to hide from friends and families. But in truth, these people may be an important lifeline for you. You need as much support as you can get.”
One source for support is through advocacy groups available in the area. The people involved with advocacy have a long experience in this area and can help guide you, give you information, and be support for your family. You don’t have to walk this road alone.
Chapter 1 — The Arrest
Understanding the physical circumstances of arrest, law enforcement procedures, Miranda rights, search warrants, and immediate steps your family can take — including finding a lawyer and taking care of yourself.
Chapter 2 — Jail and Bail Bond
Supporting a loved one in county jail, understanding the bail bond process, and navigating the financial and emotional impacts on your family.
Chapter 3 — Moving Through the Court System
Criminal court settings, pretrial events, plea bargains vs. trial, jury trial procedures, sentencing hearings, appeals, and post-conviction relief. Includes detailed information on advisement hearings, arraignment, and what to expect at each stage.
Chapter 4 — Evaluation, Child Contact & Sentencing
Sex offense-specific evaluations, child contact screening considerations, and the sentencing process.
Navigating the Prison System
Understanding the Department of Corrections intake process, classification, case management, visitation rules, inmate banking, medical and mental health services, education programs, and the Sex Offender Treatment and Monitoring Program (SOTMP).
Parole, Probation & Treatment
Understanding community supervision requirements, the role of parole and probation officers, sex offense-specific treatment in the community, polygraph requirements, and the Community Supervision Team (CST). Guidance on supporting your loved one through treatment and compliance.
Registration, Collateral Consequences & Moving Forward
Understanding sex offender registration requirements, collateral consequences affecting housing, employment, education, travel, and family life. Information on the process for petitioning to be removed from the registry and building a path forward.
Download the complete 228-page guide prepared by the Colorado SOMB Family Education, Engagement & Support Workgroup.
Disclaimers: This guide does not serve as legal advice. Because sexual offense cases involve complex and technical areas of Colorado criminal law that change frequently, you may wish to consider a lawyer who specializes in criminal defense with expertise in handling sexual offense cases. Your family may be impacted significantly by this challenging experience. You are encouraged to reach out to mental health providers who are trained and experienced in working with these issues.