Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Bates County, MO

Posted by Emily Herr on October 13, 2023

Order of Protection Lawyer Bates County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s expert Bates 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 impressive 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 Bates County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a no-risk, no-obligation consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.

What Is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a essential legal tool designed to ensure the well-being of individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or assault from another party. It is a court-issued directive–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 protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.

If a judge determines there is “good cause”, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and their alleged abuser. The ex parte order is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. If a hearing doesn’t happen 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 Bates 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 Bates County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Bates County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible resolution to your case.

Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Bates County, MO

Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two primary 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 physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to pressure a person to follow a specific action
- Harassment, or taking part in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Unlawful imprisonment, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
Stalking — Stalking means purposefully engaging 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

Amidst these complex and intense scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Bates County, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is followed appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.

Combs Waterkotte: Your Bates County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer

If you’re facing an order of protection in Bates County, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in Bates County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Bates County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:

Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a proven track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Bates County, MO. All of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
Expertise and experience — Our team comprises veteran legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to craft robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to evaluate the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, discuss your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving crucial evidence to fortify your defense, making sure that no detail is missed and the court will receive the full version of both sides of the story.
Court representation — We provide resolute representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at all phases.
Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.

By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Bates County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in capable hands, receiving the help and advocacy you require amidst this challenging time.

What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection

Immediate Actions

Whenever served with an order of protection in Bates County, MO, it is vital 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’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, knowing it and following it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can cause grave legal consequences, including criminal charges.
Document all communication — Maintain a detailed record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the other party. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, contact a knowledgeable attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
Notify your attorney — Give all applicable information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Transparency is key to creating a strong defense.
Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.

Taking these swift actions will lay the foundation for a robust defense and aid defend your rights during the Bates County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, akin to that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Bates County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to lead you through this process.

The Legal Process

Once taking immediate steps post being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will unfold:

Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your side of the story and your legal strategy.
Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to make sure your voice is heard 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
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)

Consequences of an Order of Protection in Bates County, MO, Missouri

Encountering an order of protection can lead to a variety of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:

Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the mandated restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, especially 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 restrictions on where you can go and who you can be with.
Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be banned from owning 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 foreign national, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.

Given the gravity of the potential consequences, you need seasoned and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Bates County, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to protecting your rights, looking into legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.

Other cases we take on in Bates County, MO include:

Call Combs Waterkotte’s Bates County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today

If you are confronted with an order of protection or require legal guidance in such matters, we strongly recommend you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, voice your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.

To begin the first step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Bates County, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Bates County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.

With Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, giving unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to contact us now to discuss your order of protection case in Bates County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.