Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Branson, MO

Posted by Emily Herr on October 13, 2023

Order of Protection Lawyer Branson, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Branson, 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 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.

What Is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a vital legal measure designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be dealing with risks, harassment, or violence from someone else. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to abstain from any form of contact with the petitioner.

Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who has suffered from domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an protective order alleging those actions against a current family member or someone who lives with them.

If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can issue 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 a hearing. 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 Branson, MO judge thinks you are.

It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Branson, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Branson, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible resolution to your case.

Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Branson, 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 placing another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing 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 undertaking 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 tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device

Within such complicated and intense scenarios, the advice 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 all parties’ rights are protected.

Combs Waterkotte: Your Branson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer

Should you be facing an order of protection in Branson, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound 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 has a consistent track record of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Branson, MO. All of our clients are entitled to have their story heard in court.
Expertise and experience — Our team consists of seasoned legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation without any fees to evaluate the specifics of your case, address your questions, discuss your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
Evidence collection — Our team helps in collecting and preserving essential evidence to fortify your defense, making sure that no detail is missed and the court will receive the full version of all perspectives of the story.
Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at each stage.
Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.

With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Branson, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are in trustworthy hands, receiving the support and advocacy you deserve 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 crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to defend your rights and interests:

Read the order thoroughly — Start with meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, knowing it and following it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
Do not violate the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, like arrest.
Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents concerning the person who requested the order of protection. 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 a background in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is paramount to defend your rights and future most effectively.
Notify your attorney — Share all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Transparency is key to forming a solid defense.
Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.

Taking these swift actions will establish the foundation for a robust defense and help protect your rights through the Branson, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Branson, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to direct you through this process.

The Legal Process

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

Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and your legal strategy.
Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to ensure your voice is acknowledged 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
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)

Consequences of an Order of Protection in Branson, MO, Missouri

Confronting an order of protection can cause a spectrum of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:

Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the enforced restriction on contacting the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, notably 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, like limitations on where you can go and who you can associate with.
Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, including arrest and possible incarceration.
Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be prohibited from possessing firearms according to federal law.
Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder is under a valid full order of protection.
Immigration consequences — If you’re an immigrant, 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 experienced and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Branson, MO and is focused on reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to defending 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 advocate and guide.

Other cases we take on in Branson, MO include:

Call Combs Waterkotte’s Branson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now

If you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously urge you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to go over the details of your case, express your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options available to you.

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

With Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to supporting you through the legal journey, offering unwavering support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not delay to get in touch with us now to discuss your order of protection case in Branson, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.