Order of Protection Lawyer DeKalb County, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s dedicated DeKalb 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 established track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing effective legal solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-cost 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 vital legal instrument designed to protect people who may be dealing with threats, harassment, or violence from another party. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to avoid 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 restraining order alleging those actions against a current family member or someone who lives with them.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, 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 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 DeKalb County, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in DeKalb County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in DeKalb County, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in DeKalb County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides 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 causing physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to compel a person to act in a certain way
- Harassment, or taking part in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Unlawful imprisonment, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately engaging in 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” including tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO can make all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is followed appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your DeKalb County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in DeKalb County, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the details involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in DeKalb County and Missouri order of protection law. As your DeKalb County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a proven track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in DeKalb County, MO. Each and every one of our clients have a right to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises experienced legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to craft robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation without any fees to examine the specifics of your case, answer your questions, go over your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving vital evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is ignored and the court will get the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We offer unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach favorable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated DeKalb County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting the assistance and advocacy you need during this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in DeKalb 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 meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, comprehending it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Do not violate the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can result in serious legal consequences, like criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a detailed record of any interactions, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This documentation can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a qualified attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to building a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will establish the foundation for a robust defense and aid defend your rights throughout the DeKalb County, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, such as that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s DeKalb County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking swift 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 crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and your defense strategy.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings related to your case. Attend all scheduled hearings 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 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 DeKalb County, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of notable consequences that go 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 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 restrictions 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, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from owning firearms under 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 immigrant, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the severity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in DeKalb County, MO and is dedicated to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to safeguarding your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the complexities of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s DeKalb County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
If you are dealing with an order of protection or require legal guidance in such matters, we strongly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, express your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in DeKalb County, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in DeKalb County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to supporting you through the legal journey, giving unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to get in touch with us now to go over your order of protection case in DeKalb County, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
