Denver, CO, August 1, 2026 —

A new law in Colorado, designated as SB 26-095, now permits survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking to provide testimony in court remotely, rather than in person. This legislative update is intended to mitigate the emotional and psychological trauma that victims may experience when compelled to confront their alleged abusers in a courtroom setting.

The core provision of SB 26-095 allows these survivors to testify from a location that is physically separated from the defendant. This measure seeks to provide a safer and more comfortable environment for individuals recounting their experiences, thereby reducing the potential for re-traumatization during legal proceedings.

The passage of this law was significantly influenced by Coles Whalen, a survivor of stalking. Whalen’s personal experiences reportedly underscored the profound difficulties and distress that victims often face when required to testify in person. Her advocacy played a crucial role in highlighting the need for such accommodations.

In addition to enabling virtual testimony, the new legislation incorporates several other measures aimed at protecting vulnerable individuals and improving the justice system. These include provisions designed to combat the use of intimidating lawsuits, often referred to as SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) suits, which can be used to silence victims. The law also addresses critical issues such as rape kit backlogs and aims to enhance victims’ access to their medical examination results.

The law’s comprehensive approach aims to create a more supportive legal framework for survivors of severe crimes, acknowledging the unique challenges they face and implementing practical solutions to improve their experience within the justice system.



Story summarized from the original created by Colette Bordelon on www.denver7.com, see more information here.

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