Order of Protection Lawyer Atchison County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Atchison County, 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 proven 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 Atchison County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-risk, no-obligation 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 known as a restraining order, is a essential legal instrument designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be facing risks, harassment, or assault from someone else. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to refrain from any form of contact with the petitioner.
Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who is a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an order of protection alleging those actions against a current relative or household member.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can provide 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 a hearing. If a hearing doesn’t happen 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 Atchison County, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Atchison County, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Atchison County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Atchison County, 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:
- Harming a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to compel 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
- Unlawful imprisonment, or holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking implies purposefully 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” like following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Atchison County, MO can make all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is followed correctly and that everyone’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Atchison County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Atchison County, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is proficient in Atchison County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Atchison County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Atchison County, MO. All of our clients deserve to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of veteran legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, review your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in assembling and preserving crucial evidence to strengthen your defense, ensuring that no detail is ignored and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We provide steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and interests at every step.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Atchison County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting the assistance and advocacy you need during this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Atchison County, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by thoroughly reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, understanding it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can cause grave legal consequences, including arrest.
- Document all communication — Maintain a comprehensive record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents concerning the petitioner. This record can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, reach out to a competent attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to defend 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. Transparency is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will set the foundation for a solid defense and aid safeguard your rights through the Atchison County, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, akin to that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Atchison County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking prompt steps post being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your side of the story and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to make sure your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually comprises:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Atchison County, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a range of notable consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly 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 limitations on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be prohibited from having 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 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 need knowledgeable and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Atchison County, MO and is committed to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights, investigating legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Atchison County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Atchison 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 vigorously recommend you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this essential initial meeting, you will have the chance to go over the details of your case, convey your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the first step in the direction of securing your defense in an order of protection case in Atchison County, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Atchison County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to supporting you throughout the legal journey, providing steadfast support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not delay to contact us now to talk about your order of protection case in Atchison County, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
