Order of Protection Lawyer Fulton, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s professional Fulton, 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 proven track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing effective legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Fulton, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a essential legal measure designed to ensure the safety of individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that orders 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 household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner 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 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 Fulton, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Fulton, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Fulton, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Fulton, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides two chief 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 inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging 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 intentionally 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” such as following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Amidst these complex and intense scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Fulton, MO can make all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Fulton, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Fulton, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Fulton and Missouri order of protection law. As your Fulton, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a strong track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Fulton, MO. All of our clients have a right to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of veteran legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to craft robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation free of charge to evaluate the specifics of your case, answer your questions, go over your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in assembling and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, ensuring that no detail is ignored and the court will get the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We offer resolute representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Fulton, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in capable hands, benefiting from 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 Fulton, 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’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, knowing it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, including arrest.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, contact a qualified attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is essential to safeguard your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Candidness is key to building a robust 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 aid protect your rights throughout the Fulton, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Fulton, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking immediate steps post being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- 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 — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to ensure your voice is heard 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 Fulton, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can result in a range of major 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, 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 be with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from possessing firearms according to 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 issued against you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also lead to 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 Fulton, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, looking into legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the challenges of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Fulton, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Fulton, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or need legal advice in such matters, we strongly recommend you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this pivotal initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss the details of your case, express your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the first step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Fulton, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Fulton, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, offering unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not wait to reach out to us today to discuss your order of protection case in Fulton, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
