Order of Protection Lawyer Meramec, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s expert Meramec, 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 legal solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Meramec, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation. Take a look at 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 well-being of individuals who may be dealing with dangers, harassment, or assault from another party. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to refrain 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 restraining order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is justifiable reason, they can issue 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 a hearing. If a hearing doesn’t take place 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 Meramec, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and future protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Meramec, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Meramec, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Meramec, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two primary 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 taking part in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping, or detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means intentionally participating 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” such as tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device
Amidst these complex and intense scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Meramec, MO can prove to be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Meramec, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Meramec, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the details involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is well-versed in Meramec and Missouri order of protection law. As your Meramec, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- 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 Meramec, MO. Every single one of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up 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 evaluate 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 crucial evidence to bolster your defense, ensuring that no detail goes overlooked 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 interests 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.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Meramec, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, getting the support and advocacy you require throughout this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Meramec, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with 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, comprehending it and following it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Do not violate the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can cause grave legal consequences, like criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents related to the person who requested the order of protection. This record can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, contact a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Share all pertinent information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Transparency is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will lay the foundation for a robust defense and help defend your rights during the Meramec, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, akin to that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Meramec, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking immediate 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 aid you in crafting 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 — Stay informed 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 recognized 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 Meramec, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can result in a range of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost 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 lead to the loss of personal freedoms, like limitations on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be banned from having firearms as per 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 issued against you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have knowledgeable and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Meramec, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to protecting your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Meramec, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Meramec, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
In the event that you are facing an order of protection or need legal guidance in such matters, we strongly urge you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, convey your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the first step in the direction of securing your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Meramec, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Meramec, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on standing by your side throughout the legal journey, offering steadfast support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not wait to contact us today to discuss your order of protection case in Meramec, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
