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 impressive 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 Oak Grove, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us through our website for a no-cost consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a critical legal measure designed to protect individuals who may be confronting risks, harassment, or assault from someone else. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders 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 protective order alleging those actions against a current relative or household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and their alleged abuser. 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 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 Oak Grove, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Oak Grove, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Oak Grove, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte immediately 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 Oak Grove, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two chief 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 causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to force 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 holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately 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” like following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Amidst these complex and highly emotional scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Oak Grove, MO can prove to be 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
When you are facing an order of protection in Oak Grove, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is proficient 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 strong history of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Oak Grove, 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 seasoned legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to craft 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, discuss your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving crucial evidence to fortify your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is missed and the court will get the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators endeavor to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to lessen 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 rest assured that you are in capable hands, getting the help 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 safeguard your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by thoroughly reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Grasp its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, understanding it and following it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to serious legal consequences, like criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Maintain a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents concerning the person who requested the order of protection. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all applicable information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Transparency is key to creating a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these swift steps will set the foundation for a strong defense and assist protect your rights during the Oak Grove, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, such as that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Oak Grove, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once 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 drafting 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 associated with your case. Participate in 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 consists of:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Approval or rejection of a protection order, including 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 result in a spectrum of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to 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 lead to the loss of personal freedoms, including restrictions on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be prohibited from having firearms under federal law.
- Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder is under a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an foreign national, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have knowledgeable and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows 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 experienced attorneys are devoted to defending your rights, investigating legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the complications of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your champion 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 facing an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly encourage you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the chance to talk about the details of your case, voice your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the first step towards ensuring your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Oak Grove, MO, talk to an order of protection defense lawyer in Oak Grove, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side during the legal journey, offering resolute support, expertise, and advocacy. Do not hesitate to contact us today to discuss your order of protection case in Oak Grove, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
