Order of Protection Lawyer Creve Coeur, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Creve Coeur, 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 established 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 Creve Coeur, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-cost consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a essential legal measure designed to safeguard individuals who may be dealing with dangers, harassment, or assault from another party. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to refrain from any form of contact with the petitioner.
Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who is a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
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 alleged victim and their alleged abuser. 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 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 Creve Coeur, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Creve Coeur, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Creve Coeur, MO, reach out to 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 Creve Coeur, 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:
- Mistreating a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to force a person to follow a specific action
- Harassment, or taking part 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 means deliberately undertaking 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” such as tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
Amidst these complex and highly emotional scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO can prove to be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Creve Coeur, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Creve Coeur, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is well-versed in Creve Coeur and Missouri order of protection law. As your Creve Coeur, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a consistent track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Creve Coeur, MO. Every single one of our clients deserve to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of experienced legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to evaluate the specifics of your case, answer your questions, go over your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in gathering and preserving vital evidence to fortify your defense, guaranteeing that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver steadfast representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Creve Coeur, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting the support and advocacy you need 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 Creve Coeur, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by 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, understanding it and following it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can result in serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the person who requested the order of protection. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is essential to defend your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Candidness is key to building a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will establish the foundation for a solid defense and assist safeguard your rights during the Creve Coeur, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Creve Coeur, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking prompt steps post being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to guarantee your voice is acknowledged and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. 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 Creve Coeur, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can result in a variety of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the imposed restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, notably 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 be with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, like arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be prohibited 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. Violating an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you require seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Creve Coeur, MO and is dedicated to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are focused on protecting your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complications of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Creve Coeur, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Creve Coeur, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
If you are dealing with an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we highly recommend you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, convey your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of safeguarding your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Creve Coeur, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Creve Coeur, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side through the legal journey, providing resolute support, legal skill, and advocacy. Don’t delay to reach out to us now to discuss your order of protection case in Creve Coeur, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.
