Order of Protection Lawyer Montgomery County, MO. If you received a restraining order in Montgomery County, MO you need a skilled order of protection defense lawyer to ensure your rights and future stay intact. With a impressive 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 Montgomery County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary 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 …
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a vital legal instrument designed to ensure the well-being of individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or assault from another party. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to avoid 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 restraining order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks 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 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 Montgomery County, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Montgomery County, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Montgomery County, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away 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 Montgomery County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two main 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 placing another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to compel a person to act in a certain way
- 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 detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means purposefully 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” including following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
Amidst these complex and intense scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Montgomery County, MO can prove to be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Montgomery County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Montgomery County, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Montgomery County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Montgomery County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a consistent history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Montgomery County, MO. Each and every one of our clients have a right to have their story presented in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of seasoned legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to design robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation at no cost to examine the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, discuss your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving essential evidence to bolster your defense, making sure that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver resolute representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Montgomery County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in trustworthy hands, receiving the assistance and advocacy you require during this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Montgomery County, MO, it is vital 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 received. Grasp its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, comprehending it and following it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can cause serious legal consequences, such as arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a detailed record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a competent attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that led to 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, adhere to these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will lay the foundation for a solid defense and aid safeguard your rights during the Montgomery County, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Montgomery County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking immediate steps post 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 drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and your legal strategy.
- 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 guarantee 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
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Montgomery County, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can result in a variety of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, especially 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, such as constraints on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be prohibited from possessing firearms under 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. Breaking an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the seriousness of the potential consequences, you need knowledgeable and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Montgomery County, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are focused on safeguarding your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Do not traverse the complexities of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Other cases we take on in Montgomery County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Montgomery County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
In the event that you are confronted with an order of protection or need legal guidance in such matters, we highly recommend you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this pivotal initial meeting, you will have the chance to go over the details of your case, convey your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.
To begin the first step in the direction of securing your defense in an order of protection case in Montgomery County, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Montgomery County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on supporting you through the legal journey, giving steadfast support, knowledge, and advocacy. Do not wait to reach out to us now to discuss your order of protection case in Montgomery County, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
