Order of Protection Lawyer Hannibal, MO
If you received a restraining order in Hannibal, MO you need a knowledgeable order of protection defense lawyer to ensure your rights and future stay intact. 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 Hannibal, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a no-risk, no-obligation consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a essential legal instrument designed to protect individuals who may be facing threats, harassment, or assault from someone else. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that orders the alleged perpetrator 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 order of protection alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is “good cause”, they can issue 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 a hearing. 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 Hannibal, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Hannibal, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Hannibal, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away 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 Hannibal, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers 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 employing threats to pressure a person to comply
- Harassment, or participating in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping, or holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking implies intentionally undertaking 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” like following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Hannibal, MO can be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Hannibal, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Hannibal, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is proficient in Hannibal and Missouri order of protection law. As your Hannibal, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a strong track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Hannibal, MO. Every single one of our clients deserve to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of veteran legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to design robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation free of charge to examine the specifics of your case, answer your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving crucial evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is missed and the court will hear the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We provide steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators endeavor to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Hannibal, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are getting the best possible defense team, benefiting from the support and advocacy you deserve during this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Hannibal, 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 meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, knowing it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Obey the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, including arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, contact a competent attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is essential to defend your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all relevant information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Candidness is key to forming a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these prompt actions will set the foundation for a robust defense and aid protect your rights through the Hannibal, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Hannibal, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking swift steps after being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your side of the story and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to guarantee your voice is heard 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
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Hannibal, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, notably if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can lead to the loss of personal freedoms, including restrictions on where you can go and who you can spend time 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 subject to an order of protection may be forbidden from having 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 foreign national, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Considering the severity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the intricacies of order of protection cases in Hannibal, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are devoted to safeguarding your rights, exploring legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Do not traverse the complexities of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Hannibal, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or need legal guidance in such matters, we strongly encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, express your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the first step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Hannibal, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Hannibal, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to supporting you through the legal journey, giving unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to contact us today to go over your order of protection case in Hannibal, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
