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 impressive track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing highly successful legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Meramec, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free 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 critical legal tool designed to ensure the safety of people who may be facing risks, harassment, or violence from someone else. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to abstain from any form of contact with the petitioner.
Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who has suffered from domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an order of protection alleging those actions against a current family member or household member.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say abused them. 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 happen 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 Meramec, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Meramec, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Meramec, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible resolution to 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:
- Harming a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to compel 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 holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means intentionally engaging 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” such as tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
In these intricate and highly emotional scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Meramec, MO can make all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is followed correctly and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Meramec, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Meramec, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of experienced 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 maintains a proven history of securing the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Meramec, MO. All of our clients are entitled to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of veteran legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to craft robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation at no cost to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving crucial evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail goes overlooked and the court will receive the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver unwavering representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach amicable 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 capable hands, receiving the support and advocacy you deserve during this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Meramec, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by carefully reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not concur 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 — Comply closely to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to grave legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents concerning the petitioner. This documentation can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a competent attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to defend your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all applicable 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 includes restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will set the foundation for a strong defense and assist defend your rights through the Meramec, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, such as that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Meramec, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once 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 depict your side of the story and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings tied to 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 hearing your version of events. The hearing usually includes:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Meramec, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can lead to a variety of significant consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the imposed restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, particularly if you have in common children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can lead to the loss of personal freedoms, such as limitations 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 potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be forbidden from possessing 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 issued against you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Considering the seriousness of the potential consequences, you require experienced and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Meramec, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Meramec, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are dealing with an order of protection or require legal guidance in such matters, we strongly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this crucial initial meeting, you will have the occasion to talk about the details of your case, convey your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the preliminary step in the direction of securing your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Meramec, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Meramec, 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 through the legal journey, providing unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t hesitate to contact us now to discuss your order of protection case in Meramec, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
