Order of Protection Lawyer Carthage, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s expert Carthage, 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 Carthage, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact 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 known as a restraining order, is a crucial legal instrument designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be facing threats, harassment, or assault from someone in their family or household. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires 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 has suffered from 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 determines there is “good cause”, they can provide 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 all parties gather for a court appearance. If a hearing doesn’t occur 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 Carthage, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Carthage, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Carthage, MO, reach out to 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 outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Carthage, 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:
- Harming a pet
- Assault, or placing another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing 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
- Kidnapping, or holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking implies deliberately participating in 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” like following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
In these intricate and emotionally charged scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Carthage, MO can prove to be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Carthage, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Carthage, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is well-versed in Carthage and Missouri order of protection law. As your Carthage, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong history of securing the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Carthage, MO. Every single one of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises experienced legal professionals with deep 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 free of charge to evaluate 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 bolster your defense, ensuring that no detail is missed and the court will hear the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Carthage, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in capable hands, getting the help and advocacy you deserve 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 Carthage, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by meticulously 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, 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 mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, like criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This log can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, reach out to a knowledgeable attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to safeguard your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Give all pertinent information with your attorney, including details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Transparency is key to building a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these swift steps will lay the foundation for a solid defense and aid protect your rights throughout the Carthage, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Carthage, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking swift steps following being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually consists of:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Carthage, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can result in a range of major consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the mandated restriction on contacting the protected party. This can disrupt 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 — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be banned from possessing firearms under federal law.
- Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder is affected by a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an alien, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the severity of the potential consequences, you require experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Carthage, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights, looking into legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not navigate the complications of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Carthage, MO include:
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Carthage, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly urge you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the chance to talk about the details of your case, express your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the preliminary step in the direction of ensuring your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Carthage, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Carthage, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side through the legal journey, giving resolute support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to reach out to us now to go over your order of protection case in Carthage, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
