Order of Protection Lawyer Ladue, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s professional Ladue, 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 proven track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing effective defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Ladue, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a vital legal tool designed to ensure the safety of individuals who may be dealing with risks, harassment, or assault from another party. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the accused to avoid any form of contact with the person who requested the order of protection.
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 family member or household member.
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 alleged victim and they person they say is a risk. The ex parte order is issued 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 Ladue, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Ladue, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Ladue, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Ladue, 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 physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to pressure a person to comply
- Harassment, or participating in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Unlawful imprisonment, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means purposefully 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” such as following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Ladue, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Ladue, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Ladue, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is well-versed in Ladue and Missouri order of protection law. As your Ladue, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong history of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Ladue, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of veteran legal professionals with deep 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 extend an initial consultation free of charge to evaluate the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving vital evidence to fortify your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will receive the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators endeavor 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 Ladue, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are getting the best possible defense team, benefiting from the assistance and advocacy you require throughout this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Ladue, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, knowing it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can cause serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents related to the other party. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Candidness is key to creating a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will lay the foundation for a solid defense and aid protect your rights through the Ladue, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, akin to that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Ladue, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking prompt steps after being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Attend all scheduled hearings with your attorney to make sure your voice is acknowledged and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually comprises:
- 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 Ladue, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can lead to a spectrum 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 interfere with personal relationships, especially if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can cause the loss of personal freedoms, like constraints on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be prohibited from owning firearms according to 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 alien, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Given the seriousness of the potential consequences, you must have experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the subtleties of order of protection cases in Ladue, MO and is committed to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to protecting your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Ladue, MO include:
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Ladue, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or need legal guidance in such matters, we vigorously urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the chance to talk about the details of your case, express your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of securing your defense in an order of protection case in Ladue, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Ladue, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, offering unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to contact us today to discuss your order of protection case in Ladue, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
