Order of Protection Lawyer Kansas City, MO
If you were hit with a restraining order in Kansas City, MO you need an experienced order of protection defense lawyer to protect your rights and interests. With a proven track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing effective legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Kansas City, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-risk, no-obligation 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 instrument designed to safeguard individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or assault from another party. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the accused 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 restraining order alleging those actions against a current relative or household member.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say is a risk. 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 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 Kansas City, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Kansas City, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Kansas City, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Kansas City, 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 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
- Kidnapping, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means intentionally participating 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 means or device
Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Kansas City, MO can prove to be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Kansas City, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Kansas City, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the details involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is adept in Kansas City and Missouri order of protection law. As your Kansas City, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Kansas City, MO. Every single one of our clients have a right to have their story shared 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 suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation free of charge to evaluate 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 gathering and preserving crucial evidence to fortify your defense, ensuring that no detail is missed and the court will get the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Kansas City, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are in trustworthy hands, receiving the support and advocacy you need amidst this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Kansas City, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to defend your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Grasp its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, understanding it and following it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any interactions, interactions or incidents involving the petitioner. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, get in touch with a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is vital to defend your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Give all applicable information with your attorney, like details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Candidness is key to creating a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will lay the foundation for a robust defense and assist defend your rights during the Kansas City, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Kansas City, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking swift steps post being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in drafting 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 — Keep in mind 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 hearing your version of events. The hearing usually includes:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Kansas City, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can lead to a range of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on contacting the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, particularly if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can result in the loss of personal freedoms, like restrictions on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be prohibited from owning firearms under 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. Breaking an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you need seasoned and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Kansas City, MO and is dedicated to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to protecting your rights, investigating legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the challenges of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Kansas City, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
In the event that you are confronted with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we strongly recommend you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this pivotal initial meeting, you will have the chance to discuss the details of your case, convey your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the preliminary step in the direction of ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Kansas City, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Kansas City, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on standing by your side through the legal journey, offering resolute support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to talk about your order of protection case in Kansas City, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
