Jackson, MO

Posted by Emily Herr on October 13, 2023

Order of Protection Lawyer Jackson, MO

Combs Waterkotte’s dedicated 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 to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Jackson, 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.

What Is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a crucial legal measure designed to ensure the safety of individuals who may be confronting dangers, harassment, or violence from someone else. It is a court-issued directive–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 has suffered from domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an order of protection alleging those actions against a current family member or household member.

If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is “good cause”, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim 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.

It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Jackson, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Jackson, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible resolution to your case.

Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Jackson, MO

Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two main 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 causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to compel 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 holding somebody somewhere against their will
Stalking — Stalking implies purposefully undertaking 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” like following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device

Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Jackson, MO can prove to be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.

Combs Waterkotte: Your Jackson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer

Should you be facing an order of protection in Jackson, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in Jackson and Missouri order of protection law. As your Jackson, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:

Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a strong history of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Jackson, MO. Each and every one of our clients deserve to have their story presented in court.
Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of seasoned legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to craft robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, discuss your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
Evidence collection — Our team helps in collecting and preserving vital evidence to fortify your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is ignored and the court will get the full version of all perspectives of the story.
Court representation — We provide resolute representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at all phases.
Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, striving to mitigate 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, benefiting from the support and advocacy you require throughout this challenging 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 imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to protect your rights and interests:

Read the order thoroughly — Start with meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, comprehending it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
Obey the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, like criminal charges.
Document all communication — Hold onto a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This log can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, reach out to 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 — Give all pertinent information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Candidness is key to creating a solid defense.
Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.

Taking these prompt steps will set the foundation for a solid defense and aid defend your rights throughout the Jackson, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Jackson, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential 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 occur:

Filing a response — Your attorney will help 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 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
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)

Consequences of an Order of Protection in Jackson, MO, Missouri

Encountering an order of protection can cause a range of notable consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:

Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the imposed restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, notably 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 constraints on where you can go and who you can be with.
Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, like arrest and potential incarceration.
Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be forbidden from possessing 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 immigrant, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.

Given the severity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the intricacies of order of protection cases in Jackson, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to safeguarding your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the complexities of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.

Other cases we take on in Jackson, MO include:

Call Combs Waterkotte’s Jackson, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today

In the event that you are facing an order of protection or need 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 go over the details of your case, voice your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options available to you.

To take the first step towards safeguarding your rights and future in an order of protection case in Jackson, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Jackson, MO now 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 unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t hesitate to contact us now to discuss your order of protection case in Jackson, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.