Order of Protection Lawyer Pevely, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s professional Pevely, 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 defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Pevely, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary 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 essential legal instrument designed to protect individuals who may be facing threats, harassment, or assault from someone in their family or household. It is a court-issued document–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 is a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an protective order alleging those actions against a current family member or household member.
If a judge determines there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim 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 occur 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 Pevely, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and future protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Pevely, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Pevely, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Pevely, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides two main 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 physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to pressure a person to act in a certain way
- Harassment, or engaging 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 intentionally 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 method or device
In these intricate and intense scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Pevely, MO can make all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is followed correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Pevely, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Pevely, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is well-versed in Pevely and Missouri order of protection law. As your Pevely, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a consistent track record of achieving the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Pevely, MO. All of our clients deserve to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises veteran legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to design robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to examine the specifics of your case, answer your questions, discuss your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in collecting and preserving vital evidence to fortify your defense, ensuring that no detail is missed and the court will hear the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We offer unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and interests at every step.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, aiming to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Pevely, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are in trustworthy hands, receiving the help and advocacy you need during this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Pevely, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to protect your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with thoroughly reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, comprehending it and following it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mandated in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to severe legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Maintain a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents involving the person who requested the order of protection. This record can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, contact a competent attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is paramount 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 led to the order of protection. Openness is key to building a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will establish the foundation for a strong defense and help safeguard your rights throughout the Pevely, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, like that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Pevely, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking immediate steps following being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings 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, accompanied by the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Pevely, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can cause a range of notable consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, especially 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, like limitations on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, including arrest and possible 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 is affected by a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an alien, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Breaking an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Considering the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Pevely, MO and is focused on reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights, exploring legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Pevely, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we vigorously recommend you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the chance to go over the details of your case, express your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options available to you.
To take the preliminary step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Pevely, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Pevely, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-obligation consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on supporting you through the legal journey, offering resolute support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t wait to get in touch with us today to talk about your order of protection case in Pevely, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.
