455.035. Protection orders — ex parte.
Allows courts to give fast temporary protection from abuse or threats
If someone is in immediate danger from abuse or threats, a judge can issue a quick temporary protection order—called an ex parte order—without waiting for a full court hearing.
1. After someone files a verified petition, the court can issue an ex parte order of protection right away if there’s good cause—like immediate danger to the person or child. This order starts immediately and stays in effect until the respondent is served and a hearing is held. The court will deny the request if the person filing isn’t legally allowed to seek protection under §455.020.
2. The order is still valid even if the respondent hasn’t been served yet. If the respondent is under 17 and not emancipated, the papers must be served on their parent, guardian, or court-appointed guardian ad litem, who must bring them to court.
3. If the respondent is under 17, the case must be transferred to juvenile court for the hearing on a full protection order. A guardian ad litem will be appointed if the child doesn’t have a parent or guardian representing them.
Contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP to talk with a Missouri order of protection defense lawyer.
