Order of Protection Lawyer Greene County, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s expert Greene 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 legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Greene County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary 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 critical legal instrument designed to safeguard individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or assault from someone else. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders the accused to refrain 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 protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or household member.
If a judge determines there is justifiable reason, 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 occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. If a hearing doesn’t occur 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 Greene County, 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 Greene County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Greene County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away 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 Greene County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two primary 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 placing 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
- 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” including tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Within such complicated and highly emotional scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Greene County, MO can make all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Greene County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Greene County, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the details involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is adept in Greene County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Greene County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a consistent track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Greene County, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled 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 leverage this expertise to craft robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to examine the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, discuss your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in collecting and preserving essential evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is missed and the court will get the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We offer resolute representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and interests at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators endeavor to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Greene County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in capable hands, benefiting from the support and advocacy you require during this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Greene County, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with thoroughly reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of 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.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, including arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents concerning the petitioner. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, contact a knowledgeable attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all relevant information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Transparency is key to building a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these prompt actions will establish the foundation for a strong defense and aid defend your rights throughout the Greene County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Greene County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking immediate steps post being served an order of protection, it’s imperative 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 depict your side of the story and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is acknowledged 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, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Greene County, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can cause a spectrum of major consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, especially 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 limitations on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from having firearms under 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. Infringing an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Considering the seriousness of the potential consequences, you require experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the intricacies of order of protection cases in Greene County, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, investigating legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Greene County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously urge you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the chance to talk about the details of your case, voice your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options available to you.
To begin the first step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Greene County, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Greene County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, offering steadfast support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to contact us now to go over your order of protection case in Greene County, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.
