Order of Protection Lawyer Arnold, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Arnold, MO order of protection defense lawyers are trusted and esteemed criminal defense attorneys dedicated to safeguarding the rights and interests of individuals who have been served with a restraining order. With a established track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing highly successful legal solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Arnold, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website 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 critical legal measure designed to safeguard individuals who may be dealing with dangers, harassment, or violence from another party. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the accused to avoid 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 evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim 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 take place within 15 days, the order of 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 Arnold, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Arnold, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Arnold, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Arnold, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides two primary 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 physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to pressure a person to comply
- Harassment, or engaging in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Unlawful imprisonment, or holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately participating in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to trigger fear of physical harm
- Course of conduct means two or more acts that “serve no legitimate purpose” including following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Within such complicated and intense scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Arnold, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is followed appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Arnold, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Arnold, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Arnold and Missouri order of protection law. As your Arnold, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Arnold, MO. All of our clients have a right to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of seasoned legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to craft robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation at no cost to examine the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in collecting and preserving crucial evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will get the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Arnold, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in competent hands, receiving the assistance and advocacy you need throughout this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Arnold, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to defend your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by 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.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can cause serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the petitioner. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is vital to protect your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Give all pertinent information with your attorney, including details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Candidness is key to forming a solid 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 swift actions will lay the foundation for a strong defense and assist protect your rights throughout the Arnold, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Arnold, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking immediate steps following being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Attend 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 consists of:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Arnold, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can lead to a range of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the mandated restriction on contacting the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, notably if you have in common children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can cause the loss of personal freedoms, like limitations on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be forbidden from owning firearms according to federal law.
- Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder is affected by a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an foreign national, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Given the seriousness of the potential consequences, you require knowledgeable and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Arnold, MO and is committed to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complexities of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Arnold, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Arnold, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we vigorously encourage you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, convey your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the first step in the direction of securing your rights and future in an order of protection case in Arnold, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Arnold, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side through the legal journey, giving steadfast support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t hesitate to contact us now to discuss your order of protection case in Arnold, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
