Order of Protection Lawyer Chesterfield, MO. If you received a restraining order in Chesterfield, MO you need a knowledgeable order of protection defense lawyer to ensure your rights and future stay intact. With a proven track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing effective defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Chesterfield, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary consultation. You can check out 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 called a restraining order, is a essential legal tool designed to safeguard people who may be confronting threats, harassment, or violence from another party. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that orders 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 family member or household member.
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 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 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 Chesterfield, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Chesterfield, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Chesterfield, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Chesterfield, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two main 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 being physically injured
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to force 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
- Kidnapping, or detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking implies 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” such as following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
In these intricate and intense scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Chesterfield, MO can make all the difference in making sure that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Chesterfield, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Chesterfield, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is proficient in Chesterfield and Missouri order of protection law. As your Chesterfield, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a consistent history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Chesterfield, MO. Every single one of our clients have a right to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises seasoned legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to design robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation free of charge to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in collecting and preserving vital evidence to bolster your defense, making sure that no detail is missed and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our talented 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 Chesterfield, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in trustworthy hands, getting the assistance and advocacy you deserve during this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Chesterfield, MO, it is vital 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 received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, knowing it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to grave legal consequences, like criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents concerning the petitioner. This log can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, contact a knowledgeable attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is paramount to protect your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all pertinent information with your attorney, like details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Transparency is key to building a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on entering your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will lay the foundation for a robust defense and assist defend your rights through the Chesterfield, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Chesterfield, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking prompt steps following being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in preparing 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 — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Attend all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to guarantee 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
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Chesterfield, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can result in a range of significant consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary 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 spend time 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 forbidden from owning firearms as per 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 alien, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have experienced and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the subtleties of order of protection cases in Chesterfield, MO and is committed to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are focused on protecting your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for 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 Chesterfield, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Chesterfield, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
If you are dealing with an order of protection or need legal advice in such matters, we highly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this crucial initial meeting, you will have the chance to talk about the details of your case, voice your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the preliminary step towards ensuring your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Chesterfield, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Chesterfield, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side during the legal journey, giving resolute support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t wait to reach out to us now to go over your order of protection case in Chesterfield, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
