Order of Protection Lawyer Liberty, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s expert Liberty, 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 impressive track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing highly successful defense solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Liberty, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a vital legal tool designed to ensure the safety of people who may be facing risks, harassment, or violence from another party. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that orders the alleged perpetrator to abstain from 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 protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, 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 occur 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 Liberty, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and future protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Liberty, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Liberty, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Liberty, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two primary 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 putting another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to compel a person to follow a specific action
- 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 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” such as following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Liberty, 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 Liberty, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Liberty, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the details involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is adept in Liberty and Missouri order of protection law. As your Liberty, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a consistent track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Liberty, MO. Each and every one of our clients deserve to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of seasoned legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to formulate robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation at no cost to evaluate the specifics of your case, answer your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in collecting and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver unwavering representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, striving to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Liberty, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are in competent hands, getting the help 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 Liberty, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with thoroughly reading the order of protection document you received. Understand its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, understanding it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Do not violate the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to severe legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This documentation can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all pertinent information with your attorney, like details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Openness is key to building a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these swift actions will establish the foundation for a robust defense and aid defend your rights through the Liberty, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, such as that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Liberty, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking prompt 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 aid you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Participate in 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 consists of:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Liberty, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can cause a variety of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on contacting 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 result in the loss of personal freedoms, like constraints on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be forbidden 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 alien, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Considering the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have experienced and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Liberty, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to defending your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Liberty, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal guidance in such matters, we highly urge you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the chance to discuss the details of your case, convey your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.
To take the preliminary step towards safeguarding your rights and future in an order of protection case in Liberty, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Liberty, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on supporting you through the legal journey, providing unwavering support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to reach out to us now to go over your order of protection case in Liberty, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.
