Order of Protection Lawyer Jasper County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s dedicated Jasper 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 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 Jasper County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Legal Videos
Can I get a restraining order removed from my record?
Can you get an order of protection or restraining order removed from your record in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss if a restraining order stays on your record permanently or if …
Potential for Emotional Manipulation in Missouri Order of Protection Cases
Order of protection cases in Missouri aim to safeguard individuals from harm, but there is potential for emotional manipulation that can complicate outcomes. Some may exaggerate or fabricate abuse …
Why You Need an Order of Protection Defense Lawyer in Missouri
Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discusses the importance of having an attorney for an Order of Protection defense. An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to …
Challenges of Getting an Order of Protection Dismissed
What are the challenges of getting an order of Protection dismissed in Missouri? An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to protect individuals from domestic violence or harassment in …
Do I Need a Lawyer For A Restraining Order?
Do you need a lawyer or attorney for a restraining order or an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss why you should hire an attorney if you have been served with …
What To Do After Being Served With An Order of Protection
What should you do immediately after being served with an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discuss what you need to do …
Can I get a restraining order removed from my record?
Can you get an order of protection or restraining order removed from your record in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss if a restraining order stays on your record permanently or if …
Potential for Emotional Manipulation in Missouri Order of Protection Cases
Order of protection cases in Missouri aim to safeguard individuals from harm, but there is potential for emotional manipulation that can complicate outcomes. Some may exaggerate or fabricate abuse …
Why You Need an Order of Protection Defense Lawyer in Missouri
Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discusses the importance of having an attorney for an Order of Protection defense. An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to …
Challenges of Getting an Order of Protection Dismissed
What are the challenges of getting an order of Protection dismissed in Missouri? An Order of Protection (OP) is a legal measure to protect individuals from domestic violence or harassment in …
Do I Need a Lawyer For A Restraining Order?
Do you need a lawyer or attorney for a restraining order or an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte discuss why you should hire an attorney if you have been served with …
What To Do After Being Served With An Order of Protection
What should you do immediately after being served with an order of protection in Missouri? Chris Combs and Steve Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Law Firm discuss what you need to do …
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a crucial legal instrument designed to safeguard individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or violence from someone in their family or household. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the accused to avoid 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 protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, 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 Jasper County, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Jasper County, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Jasper County, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Jasper County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides 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 being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing 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
- Unlawful imprisonment, or detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means 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 tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Jasper County, MO can be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that everyone’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Jasper County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Jasper County, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is adept in Jasper County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Jasper County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a consistent history of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Jasper County, MO. Every single one of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of experienced legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to formulate robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, review your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving crucial evidence to fortify 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 unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Jasper County, 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 need during this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Jasper County, MO, it is imperative 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. Grasp its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, knowing it and following it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to grave legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents involving the petitioner. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a qualified attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, including details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Openness is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these prompt actions will lay the foundation for a solid defense and help defend your rights during the Jasper County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Jasper County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking immediate steps following 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 preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and your defense strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to make sure your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your version of events. The hearing usually includes:
- 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 Jasper County, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can result in a range of major consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can cause the loss of personal freedoms, such as constraints on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be forbidden from owning 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 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.
Given the severity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Jasper County, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Jasper County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Jasper County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we vigorously encourage you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, express your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of safeguarding your defense in an order of protection case in Jasper County, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Jasper County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on standing by your side throughout the legal journey, providing resolute support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to contact us today to talk about your order of protection case in Jasper County, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
