Order of Protection Lawyer Oak Grove, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s expert Oak Grove, 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 highly successful defense solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Oak Grove, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a crucial legal measure designed to safeguard people who may be confronting threats, harassment, or assault from someone in their family or household. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the accused 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 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 justifiable reason, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say abused them. 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 Oak Grove, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Oak Grove, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Oak Grove, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte immediately 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 Oak Grove, 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 physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to pressure a person to comply
- Harassment, or taking part 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 purposefully participating 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 following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Within such complicated and highly emotional scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Oak Grove, MO can make all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is followed correctly and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Oak Grove, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Oak Grove, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Oak Grove and Missouri order of protection law. As your Oak Grove, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a consistent track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Oak Grove, MO. All of our clients have a right to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises veteran legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to design robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation at no cost to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, review your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in gathering and preserving essential evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail goes overlooked and the court will get the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our skilled 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 Oak Grove, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are in competent hands, receiving the support and advocacy you require throughout this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Oak Grove, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by carefully reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, comprehending it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to serious legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents involving the petitioner. This log can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Give all applicable information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to building a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will lay the foundation for a robust defense and help defend your rights through the Oak Grove, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, like that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Oak Grove, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking immediate steps post being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your side of the story and your defense strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is acknowledged 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 Oak Grove, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can cause a spectrum of major consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the imposed restriction on contacting the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can cause the loss of personal freedoms, such as restrictions on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, such as arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be prohibited 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 immigrant, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Given the severity of the potential consequences, you require knowledgeable and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Oak Grove, MO and is focused on minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complications of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Oak Grove, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Oak Grove, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
In the event that you are confronted with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly urge you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, voice your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options open to you.
To take the preliminary step in the direction of securing your rights and future in an order of protection case in Oak Grove, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Oak Grove, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, giving unwavering support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to reach out to us today to discuss your order of protection case in Oak Grove, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
