Order of Protection Lawyer Wentzville, MO. If you were served with a restraining order in Wentzville, 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 legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Wentzville, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a no-cost consultation. You can check out 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 known as a restraining order, is a critical legal measure designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be confronting risks, harassment, or violence from someone else. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders the accused to refrain from any form of contact with the person who requested the order of protection.
Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who is a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an restraining order alleging those actions against a current family member or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is justifiable reason, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and their alleged abuser. The ex parte order occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. If a hearing doesn’t occur 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 Wentzville, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Wentzville, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Wentzville, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Wentzville, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two main instances where someone can file an order of protection: abuse and stalking.
- Abuse — Abuse can be acts, attempts or threats involving:
- Injuring a pet
- Assault, or placing another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to pressure a person to follow a specific action
- Harassment, or participating in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping, or holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means intentionally undertaking an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to invoke fear of physical harm
- Course of conduct means two or more acts that “serve no legitimate purpose” such as following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Wentzville, MO can be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Wentzville, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Wentzville, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the details involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is adept in Wentzville and Missouri order of protection law. As your Wentzville, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Wentzville, MO. Every single one of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises veteran legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to design robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation free of charge to evaluate the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in collecting and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We offer unwavering representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators work to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Wentzville, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in competent hands, receiving the support and advocacy you deserve during this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Wentzville, MO, it is vital 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 received. Understand its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, knowing it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can cause serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any communication, interactions or incidents concerning the person who requested the order of protection. This log can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a competent attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is vital to protect your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Share all relevant information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Openness is key to forming a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on entering your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will lay the foundation for a robust defense and aid defend your rights through the Wentzville, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, such as that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Wentzville, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking swift steps following being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your version of events and your defense strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to guarantee your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your version of events. The hearing usually includes:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Wentzville, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a range of significant consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, notably if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can result in the loss of personal freedoms, like constraints on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from owning firearms as per 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 immigrant, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the severity of the potential consequences, you need knowledgeable and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Wentzville, MO and is focused on lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to protecting your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complexities of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Wentzville, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Wentzville, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing an order of protection or need legal guidance in such matters, we highly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, express your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options available to you.
To begin the preliminary step towards ensuring your rights and future in an order of protection case in Wentzville, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Wentzville, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to supporting you during the legal journey, offering steadfast support, legal skill, and advocacy. Don’t wait to get in touch with us now to go over your order of protection case in Wentzville, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
