Order of Protection Lawyer Dallas County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Dallas 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 to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Dallas County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-risk, no-obligation 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 …
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 …
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 …
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a essential legal tool designed to protect individuals who may be confronting risks, harassment, or assault from someone else. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to avoid 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 protective order alleging those actions against a current family member or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and they person they say is a risk. 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 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 Dallas County, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Dallas County, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Dallas County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible 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 Dallas County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two chief instances where someone can file an order of protection: abuse and stalking.
- Abuse — Abuse can be acts, attempts or threats involving:
- Injuring a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to pressure 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 holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately participating in 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” including following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Dallas County, MO can make 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 Dallas County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Dallas County, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the details involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Dallas County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Dallas County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a proven track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Dallas County, MO. Each and every one of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises veteran legal professionals with in-depth 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 extend an initial consultation free of charge to examine the specifics of your case, answer your questions, review your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in assembling and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Dallas County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in competent hands, benefiting from the support and advocacy you need throughout this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Dallas County, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by 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, knowing it and following it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, contact a competent attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Give all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Transparency is key to creating a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these swift actions will set the foundation for a solid defense and assist defend your rights through the Dallas County, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, like that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Dallas County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking immediate steps post 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 drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your side of the story and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to guarantee your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. The hearing usually comprises:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Dallas County, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can result in a spectrum of significant consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to 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, like constraints on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be prohibited from owning firearms according to 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 issued against you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the severity of the potential consequences, you need seasoned and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Dallas County, MO and is dedicated to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the complexities of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Dallas County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Dallas County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly encourage you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this essential initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to go over the details of your case, express your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of securing your defense in an order of protection case in Dallas County, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Dallas County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, providing resolute support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t delay to contact us today to talk about your order of protection case in Dallas County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
