Order of Protection Lawyer Lawrence County, MO. If you were hit with a restraining order in Lawrence County, MO you need an experienced order of protection defense lawyer to protect your rights and interests. With a established track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing effective defense solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Lawrence County, 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.
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 called a restraining order, is a crucial legal instrument designed to ensure the safety of people who may be confronting dangers, harassment, or assault from someone else. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to avoid 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 order of protection alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is “good cause”, they can provide 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 a hearing. If a hearing doesn’t happen 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 Lawrence County, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and future protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Lawrence County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Lawrence County, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately 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 Lawrence 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:
- Mistreating a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to pressure a person to follow a specific action
- 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 holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately participating in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to cause 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 means or device
In these intricate and emotionally charged scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Lawrence County, MO can prove to be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Lawrence County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Lawrence County, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Lawrence County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Lawrence County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a proven track record of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Lawrence County, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of experienced legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to design robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation at no cost to assess the specifics of your case, answer your questions, review your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in assembling and preserving essential evidence to fortify your defense, ensuring that no detail is ignored and the court will get the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver resolute representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators endeavor to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Lawrence County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in competent hands, receiving the help and advocacy you require throughout this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Lawrence County, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to protect your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, knowing it and following it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to severe legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any interactions, interactions or incidents involving the person who requested the order of protection. This record can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Share all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Openness is key to forming a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will set the foundation for a solid defense and assist defend your rights during the Lawrence County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, like that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Lawrence County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking swift steps after being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to ensure your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. The hearing usually comprises:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Lawrence County, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can cause a spectrum of significant consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the mandated 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 cause the loss of personal freedoms, like limitations on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be forbidden from having firearms according to 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 foreign national, having an order of protection issued against 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 experienced and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the subtleties of order of protection cases in Lawrence County, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are focused on protecting your rights, investigating legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Lawrence County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Lawrence County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, voice your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Lawrence County, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Lawrence County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to supporting you during the legal journey, providing resolute support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t wait to contact us now to talk about your order of protection case in Lawrence County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
