Order of Protection Lawyer Gentry County, MO. If you received a restraining order in Gentry County, MO you need an experienced order of protection defense lawyer to protect your rights and interests. With a established track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing highly successful defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Gentry County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a no-cost consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Legal Videos
Can I get a restraining order removed from my record?
Can you get an order of protection or restraining order removed from your record in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss if a restraining order stays on your record permanently or if …
Potential for Emotional Manipulation in Missouri Order of Protection Cases
Order of protection cases in Missouri aim to safeguard individuals from harm, but there is potential for emotional manipulation that can complicate outcomes. Some may exaggerate or fabricate abuse …
Why You Need an Order of Protection Defense Lawyer in Missouri
Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discusses the importance of having an attorney for an Order of Protection defense. An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to …
Challenges of Getting an Order of Protection Dismissed
What are the challenges of getting an order of Protection dismissed in Missouri? An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to protect individuals from domestic violence or harassment in …
Do I Need a Lawyer For A Restraining Order?
Do you need a lawyer or attorney for a restraining order or an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss why you should hire an attorney if you have been served with …
What To Do After Being Served With An Order of Protection
What should you do immediately after being served with an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discuss what you need to do …
Can I get a restraining order removed from my record?
Can you get an order of protection or restraining order removed from your record in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss if a restraining order stays on your record permanently or if …
Potential for Emotional Manipulation in Missouri Order of Protection Cases
Order of protection cases in Missouri aim to safeguard individuals from harm, but there is potential for emotional manipulation that can complicate outcomes. Some may exaggerate or fabricate abuse …
Why You Need an Order of Protection Defense Lawyer in Missouri
Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discusses the importance of having an attorney for an Order of Protection defense. An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to …
Challenges of Getting an Order of Protection Dismissed
What are the challenges of getting an order of Protection dismissed in Missouri? An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to protect individuals from domestic violence or harassment in …
Do I Need a Lawyer For A Restraining Order?
Do you need a lawyer or attorney for a restraining order or an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss why you should hire an attorney if you have been served with …
What To Do After Being Served With An Order of Protection
What should you do immediately after being served with an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discuss what you need to do …
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a crucial legal measure designed to ensure the safety of individuals who may be dealing with threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to refrain from any form of contact with the person who requested the order of protection.
Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who has suffered from domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an restraining order alleging those actions against a current family member or household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and they person they say is a risk. The ex parte order is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. If a hearing doesn’t take place within 15 days, the immediate protection automatically expires. After the hearing, a judge can issue a full order that lasts between 180 days to up to two years, depending on how serious a threat the Gentry County, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and interests protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Gentry County, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Gentry County, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Gentry County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides two chief instances where someone can file an order of protection: abuse and stalking.
- Abuse — Abuse can be acts, attempts or threats involving:
- Mistreating a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to compel a person to act in a certain way
- Harassment, or engaging in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately undertaking an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to cause fear of physical harm
- Course of conduct means two or more acts that “serve no legitimate purpose” including tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
Within such complicated and highly emotional scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Gentry County, MO can make all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed correctly and that everyone’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Gentry County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Gentry County, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the details involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Gentry County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Gentry County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a proven track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Gentry County, MO. All of our clients are entitled to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises seasoned legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to craft robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, ensuring that no detail is missed and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We provide steadfast representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Gentry County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in competent hands, getting the assistance and advocacy you deserve throughout this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Gentry County, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, comprehending it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Obey the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to grave legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This documentation can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a competent attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to safeguard your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Share all applicable information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to building a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will establish the foundation for a solid defense and help protect your rights throughout the Gentry County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, akin to that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Gentry County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking swift steps following being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to make sure your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. The hearing usually comprises:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Gentry County, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can result in a spectrum of notable consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, notably if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can lead to the loss of personal freedoms, including constraints on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be banned from having firearms under federal law.
- Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder becomes subject to a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an alien, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Considering the seriousness of the potential consequences, you require experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Gentry County, MO and is focused on reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not navigate the complications of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Gentry County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Gentry County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or seek legal guidance in such matters, we strongly urge you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, voice your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the first step towards safeguarding your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Gentry County, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Gentry County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side through the legal journey, providing unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t hesitate to contact us now to talk about your order of protection case in Gentry County, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
