Order of Protection Lawyer Glendale, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s professional Glendale, 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 tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Glendale, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a no-cost consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a critical legal measure designed to safeguard people who may be dealing with threats, harassment, or violence from someone in their family or household. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders the accused 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 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 occurs 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 Glendale, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Glendale, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Glendale, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Glendale, 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:
- Injuring a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to compel 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 implies purposefully participating in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to invoke 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 means or device
In these intricate and emotionally charged scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Glendale, MO can be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed correctly and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Glendale, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Glendale, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is adept in Glendale and Missouri order of protection law. As your Glendale, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a proven history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Glendale, MO. Every single one of our clients are entitled to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of veteran legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to design robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, answer your questions, review your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is ignored and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We offer resolute representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and interests at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, striving to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Glendale, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible defense team, receiving the assistance and advocacy you require amidst this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Glendale, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to protect your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with 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, comprehending it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- 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 comprehensive record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This documentation can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to defend your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Candidness is key to building a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will set the foundation for a solid defense and help protect your rights during the Glendale, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, like that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Glendale, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking prompt steps after being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will occur:
- 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 — Be aware of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Attend all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to make sure 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
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Glendale, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can cause a variety of significant consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the mandated restriction on contacting 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 result in the loss of personal freedoms, like restrictions on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, including arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be banned from having firearms as per federal law.
- Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder is affected by a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an immigrant, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Given the seriousness of the potential consequences, you must have knowledgeable and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the intricacies of order of protection cases in Glendale, MO and is committed to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are focused on defending your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Glendale, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Glendale, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we strongly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this pivotal initial meeting, you will have the occasion to talk about the details of your case, express your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the first step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Glendale, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Glendale, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, offering unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to contact us now to talk about your order of protection case in Glendale, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
