Order of Protection Lawyer Laclede County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s dedicated Laclede 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 legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Laclede County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-risk, no-obligation 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 …
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a critical legal instrument designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be facing threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. 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 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 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 they person they say is a risk. The ex parte order occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. 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 Laclede County, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Laclede County, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Laclede County, 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 Laclede County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two chief instances where someone can file an order of protection: abuse and stalking.
- Abuse — Abuse can be acts, attempts or threats involving:
- Injuring a pet
- Assault, or placing another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to compel a person to act in a certain way
- 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 deliberately engaging 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 following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Laclede County, MO can 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 Laclede County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Laclede County, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Laclede County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Laclede County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a proven history of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Laclede County, MO. Each and every one of our clients deserve to have their story presented 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 utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to evaluate the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, go over your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in gathering and preserving vital evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We provide steadfast representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and interests at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Laclede County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting the assistance and advocacy you require throughout this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Laclede County, 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 received. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, comprehending it and following it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any communication, interactions or incidents concerning the petitioner. This documentation can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, get in touch with a competent attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all relevant information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Openness is key to building a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these swift actions will establish the foundation for a robust defense and assist protect your rights during the Laclede County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Laclede County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking prompt steps following being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your version of events 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 ensure your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. The hearing usually consists of:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Laclede County, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can result in a spectrum of significant consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the enforced restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, especially 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, like constraints on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, such as arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be banned from owning firearms as per 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 imposed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Considering the gravity of the potential consequences, you need experienced and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the intricacies of order of protection cases in Laclede County, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are devoted to protecting your rights, investigating legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the complexities of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Laclede County, MO include:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Laclede County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal guidance in such matters, we strongly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to talk about the details of your case, convey your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of safeguarding your rights and future in an order of protection case in Laclede County, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Laclede County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side during the legal journey, providing steadfast support, expertise, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to contact us today to talk about your order of protection case in Laclede County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
