Order of Protection Lawyer Fulton, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s expert 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 highly successful 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 reach out to us through our website for a complimentary consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a essential legal tool designed to safeguard individuals who may be confronting dangers, harassment, or assault from another party. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to abstain from 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 restraining 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 issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say is a risk. The ex parte order is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. 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 Fulton, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Fulton, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Fulton, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Fulton, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two primary 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 putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to force a person to follow a specific action
- 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 implies deliberately engaging 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 tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
In these intricate and intense scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Fulton, MO can be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Fulton, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Fulton, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Fulton and Missouri order of protection law. As your Fulton, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a consistent track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Fulton, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises seasoned legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to design robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to examine the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in gathering and preserving vital evidence to bolster your defense, making sure that no detail is missed and the court will get the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We offer resolute representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators endeavor to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Fulton, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in capable hands, receiving the assistance and advocacy you deserve amidst this difficult 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 crucial 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’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee 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.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to severe legal consequences, such as arrest.
- Document all communication — Maintain a detailed record of any interactions, interactions or incidents concerning the other party. This documentation can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, contact a competent attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to defend your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Give all pertinent information with your attorney, like details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Openness is key to building a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on entering your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will lay the foundation for a robust defense and aid protect your rights during the Fulton, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, akin to that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Fulton, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking prompt steps post being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your version of events and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to make sure your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually consists of:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Fulton, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can cause a range of significant consequences that reach 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, particularly 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, such as restrictions on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, such as arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be forbidden 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 immigrant, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Considering the severity of the potential consequences, you need experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Fulton, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, investigating legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Do not navigate 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 For a Free Consultation
If you are confronted with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly recommend you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this crucial initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, voice your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the preliminary step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Fulton, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Fulton, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to supporting you through the legal journey, providing resolute support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not delay to reach out to us today to talk about your order of protection case in Fulton, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
