Order of Protection Lawyer Neosho, MO. If you were hit with a restraining order in Neosho, MO you need a knowledgeable 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 highly successful legal solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Neosho, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
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Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a vital legal instrument designed to protect individuals who may be confronting threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that requires the accused 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 household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is “good cause”, they can issue 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 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 Neosho, 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 Neosho, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Neosho, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Neosho, 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:
- Injuring 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 comply
- Harassment, or engaging in a course of conduct that “alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose”
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking implies deliberately engaging 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” like following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
Amidst these complex and highly emotional scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Neosho, MO can be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that everyone’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Neosho, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Neosho, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Neosho and Missouri order of protection law. As your Neosho, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a proven track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Neosho, MO. All 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 utilize this expertise to craft robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to examine the specifics of your case, address your questions, review your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in gathering and preserving essential evidence to bolster your defense, making sure that no detail is missed and the court will get the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and interests at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Neosho, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible defense team, receiving the assistance and advocacy you deserve throughout this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Neosho, 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 meticulously reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Grasp its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, comprehending it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Do not violate the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents concerning the petitioner. This record can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is vital to defend your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to creating a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these swift actions will set the foundation for a solid defense and assist defend your rights during the Neosho, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Neosho, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to lead 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 unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Attend all scheduled hearings with your attorney to make sure your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually consists of:
- 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 Neosho, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a range of notable consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the mandated restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly 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, including constraints on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, like arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be prohibited from owning firearms under federal law.
- Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder is affected by a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an immigrant, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Considering the gravity of the potential consequences, you require seasoned and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the subtleties of order of protection cases in Neosho, MO and is dedicated to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are devoted to safeguarding your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the challenges of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Neosho, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Neosho, 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 strongly encourage you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to talk about the details of your case, voice your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the first step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Neosho, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Neosho, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side during the legal journey, giving steadfast support, expertise, and advocacy. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to discuss your order of protection case in Neosho, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.

