Order of Protection Lawyer Cooper County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Cooper County, 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 Cooper County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
Legal Videos
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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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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 …
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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 crucial legal measure designed to protect individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or violence from another party. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to refrain 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 protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is “good cause”, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and they person they say abused them. The ex parte order is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. If a hearing doesn’t happen 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 Cooper County, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and interests protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Cooper County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Cooper County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Cooper County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents 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 physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to compel 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 detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means 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 method or device
Within such complicated and highly emotional scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Cooper County, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Cooper County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Cooper County, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Cooper County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Cooper County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a proven history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Cooper County, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of experienced legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to formulate robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation free of charge to assess the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, review your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in gathering and preserving essential evidence to strengthen your defense, ensuring that no detail is ignored and the court will receive the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and interests at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Cooper County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, receiving the assistance and advocacy you require during this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Cooper County, 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 thoroughly reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, understanding it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the other party. This log can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a qualified attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Share all relevant information with your attorney, including details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Candidness is key to creating a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will establish the foundation for a solid defense and help defend your rights during the Cooper County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Cooper County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking prompt steps after being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings related to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances 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
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Cooper County, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of notable consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on contacting the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, especially if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can cause the loss of personal freedoms, such as restrictions on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from possessing 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 immigrant, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the subtleties of order of protection cases in Cooper County, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights, investigating legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Cooper County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Cooper County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal guidance in such matters, we highly encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to talk about the details of your case, convey your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options available to you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of safeguarding your rights and future in an order of protection case in Cooper County, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Cooper County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on standing by your side throughout the legal journey, offering unwavering support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not delay to get in touch with us today to discuss your order of protection case in Cooper County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
