Order of Protection Lawyer Branson, MO. If you were hit with a restraining order in Branson, MO you need a skilled 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 tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Branson, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact 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 …
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a critical legal tool designed to ensure the well-being of individuals who may be confronting risks, harassment, or violence from someone in their family or household. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that orders the alleged perpetrator to abstain 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 order of protection alleging those actions against a current family member or someone who lives with them.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is “good cause”, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say abused them. The ex parte order is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. 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 Branson, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Branson, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Branson, 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 resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Branson, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two chief 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 placing another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to force 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 detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means purposefully 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” including following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
In these intricate and intense scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Branson, MO can make all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Branson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Branson, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the details involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in Branson and Missouri order of protection law. As your Branson, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a consistent track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Branson, MO. All of our clients deserve to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises experienced legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in assembling and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail goes overlooked and the court will receive the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We provide resolute representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Branson, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, receiving 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 Branson, 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 thoroughly reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, knowing it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Do not violate the order — Comply closely to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a thorough record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents concerning the person who requested the order of protection. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Give all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will establish the foundation for a solid defense and aid safeguard your rights through the Branson, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, such as that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Branson, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking prompt steps post being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your version of events and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Participate in all scheduled hearings with your attorney to ensure your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually includes:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Branson, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of major consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly if you have in common 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, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be prohibited from having firearms according to 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 imposed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Considering the gravity of the potential consequences, you need seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the subtleties of order of protection cases in Branson, MO and is focused on lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not traverse the challenges of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Branson, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Branson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we vigorously recommend you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the occasion to talk about the details of your case, express your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the first step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Branson, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Branson, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side during the legal journey, giving unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not delay to get in touch with us now to go over your order of protection case in Branson, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
