Order of Protection Lawyer Pettis County, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s expert Pettis County, 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 established 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 Pettis County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free consultation. You can check out 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 …
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a essential legal tool designed to ensure the safety of individuals who may be dealing with threats, harassment, or violence from someone in their family or household. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders the accused to avoid any form of contact with the person who requested the order of protection.
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 “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 happen 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 Pettis County, 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 Pettis County, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Pettis County, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Pettis County, 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 putting another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to force 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
- Kidnapping, or detaining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking implies purposefully 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 means or device
Within such complicated and intense scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Pettis County, MO can be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Pettis County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Pettis County, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in Pettis County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Pettis County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a proven track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Pettis County, MO. Each and every one of our clients deserve to have their story heard 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 formulate robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation free of charge to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving essential evidence to fortify your defense, making sure that no detail is missed and the court will hear the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Pettis County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible defense team, receiving the help and advocacy you deserve throughout this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Pettis County, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to defend 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 make sure of 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 — Stick firmly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, such as arrest.
- Document all communication — Maintain a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This log can serve as vital evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, reach out to a qualified attorney with experience 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 relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Transparency is key to forming a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on entering your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will set the foundation for a robust defense and aid protect your rights through the Pettis County, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, like that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Pettis County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking swift steps after being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your side of the story and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to make sure your voice is recognized 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
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Pettis County, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can result in a variety of notable consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the imposed restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, notably 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 limitations on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent facing an order of protection may be forbidden from having 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 result in immigration-related issues.
Considering the severity of the potential consequences, you need experienced and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Pettis County, MO and is focused on minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are focused on safeguarding your rights, looking into legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Pettis County, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Pettis County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer For a Free Consultation
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously recommend you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During 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 open to you.
To take the first step in the direction of securing your rights and future in an order of protection case in Pettis County, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Pettis County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to standing by your side during the legal journey, offering unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t wait to reach out to us today to go over your order of protection case in Pettis County, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
