Order of Protection Lawyer Carrollton, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s dedicated Carrollton, 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 Carrollton, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary 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 …
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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 known as a restraining order, is a essential legal measure designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be facing threats, harassment, or assault from someone in their family or household. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires the accused 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 relative or household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say abused them. 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 Carrollton, 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 Carrollton, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Carrollton, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Carrollton, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides two chief 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 leveraging threats to compel a person to follow a specific action
- 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 detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means purposefully participating in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to cause 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 medium or device
Within such complicated and emotionally charged scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Carrollton, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Carrollton, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Carrollton, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is adept in Carrollton and Missouri order of protection law. As your Carrollton, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a strong track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Carrollton, MO. All of our clients are entitled to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of experienced legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to design robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, answer your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in collecting and preserving crucial evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will receive the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We provide steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Carrollton, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, benefiting from the help and advocacy you require amidst this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Carrollton, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with carefully reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, knowing it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents concerning the other party. This log can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a qualified 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 — Share all pertinent information with your attorney, including details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to creating a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will set the foundation for a robust defense and assist protect your rights throughout the Carrollton, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Carrollton, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking immediate steps after being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline 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 court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is heard 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
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Carrollton, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of significant consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on contacting the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, especially 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, such as constraints 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, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be banned from having firearms under 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 foreign national, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Considering the seriousness of the potential consequences, you need experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Carrollton, MO and is focused on lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are focused on protecting your rights, looking into legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complexities of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Carrollton, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Carrollton, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are dealing with an order of protection or need legal advice in such matters, we strongly encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, convey your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the first step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Carrollton, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Carrollton, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to supporting you throughout the legal journey, providing unwavering support, legal skill, and advocacy. Don’t delay to reach out to us today to go over your order of protection case in Carrollton, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
