Order of Protection Lawyer Jackson, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s expert Jackson, 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 established 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 Jackson, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact 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 essential legal tool designed to safeguard individuals who may be facing dangers, harassment, or assault from someone in their family or household. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to abstain 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 household member.
If a judge determines there is “good cause”, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and their alleged abuser. The ex parte order is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. 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 Jackson, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Jackson, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Jackson, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Jackson, 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:
- Mistreating a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to pressure 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 means deliberately engaging 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” like tracking, 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 Jackson, MO can be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is followed appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Jackson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Jackson, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Jackson and Missouri order of protection law. As your Jackson, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a strong track record of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Jackson, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of seasoned 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 offer an initial consultation without any fees to assess 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 collecting and preserving vital evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is missed and the court will receive the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver resolute representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and interests at each stage.
- 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 Jackson, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting 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 Jackson, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to protect your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by carefully reading the order of protection document you received. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, comprehending it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to serious legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents concerning the other party. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is vital to safeguard your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Give all applicable information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Transparency is key to building a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these swift steps will lay the foundation for a solid defense and assist protect your rights through the Jackson, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, akin to that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Jackson, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
After 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 assist you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and your defense strategy.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Attend all scheduled hearings with your attorney to ensure 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 Jackson, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can result in a spectrum of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, especially 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 constraints on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from owning firearms according to 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 alien, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Considering the severity of the potential consequences, you require knowledgeable and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the subtleties of order of protection cases in Jackson, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, looking into legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the complications of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Jackson, MO include:
- Drivers License Reinstatement Attorney
- Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
- Weapons Crime Attorney
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Jackson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are confronted with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we strongly encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this pivotal initial meeting, you will have the chance to talk about the details of your case, express your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options available to you.
To begin the preliminary step towards safeguarding your rights and future in an order of protection case in Jackson, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Jackson, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on supporting you during the legal journey, giving resolute support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not delay to get in touch with us today to talk about your order of protection case in Jackson, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.
