Order of Protection Lawyer Lincoln County, MO. If you were hit with a restraining order in Lincoln County, MO you need a knowledgeable order of protection defense lawyer to protect your rights and interests. With a established track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing highly successful defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Lincoln County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
Legal Videos
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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 …
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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 tool designed to ensure the safety of people who may be confronting risks, harassment, or violence from someone else. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders the alleged perpetrator 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 restraining order alleging those actions against a current family member or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and their alleged abuser. The ex parte order occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. If a hearing doesn’t take place 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Lincoln County, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible 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 Lincoln 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 putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to force a person to follow a specific action
- Harassment, or taking part 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 purposefully undertaking 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 tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Lincoln County, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Lincoln County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Lincoln County, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the details involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is adept in Lincoln County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Lincoln County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a consistent track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Lincoln County, MO. All of our clients are entitled to have their story heard 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 utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, review your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in assembling and preserving essential evidence to fortify your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will hear the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and interests at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach favorable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Lincoln County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are getting the best possible defense team, benefiting from the help and advocacy you deserve amidst this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Lincoln County, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with carefully reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, understanding it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can result in serious legal consequences, including arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents related to the person who requested the order of protection. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is essential to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Candidness is key to creating a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will lay the foundation for a strong defense and help safeguard your rights through the Lincoln County, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, like that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Lincoln County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking swift steps following being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your side of the story and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is acknowledged 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
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Lincoln County, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can lead to a range of significant consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the mandated restriction on contacting the protected party. This can interfere with 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, such as restrictions on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be forbidden from owning firearms according to 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 immigrant, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Given the severity of the potential consequences, you must have experienced and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Lincoln County, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are devoted to protecting your rights, looking into legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Lincoln County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Lincoln County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
If you are facing an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we highly encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the chance to discuss the details of your case, convey your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options available to you.
To take the preliminary step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Lincoln County, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Lincoln County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side during the legal journey, providing unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t wait to get in touch with us today to talk about your order of protection case in Lincoln County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
