Phelps County, MO

Posted by Emily Herr on October 13, 2023

Order of Protection Lawyer Phelps County, MO

Combs Waterkotte’s professional Phelps 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 proven track record of excellence, Combs Waterkotte is committed to providing highly successful legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Phelps County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-cost consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.

Understanding Orders of Protection

An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a essential legal tool designed to protect individuals who may be facing threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator 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 family member or household member.

If a judge determines 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 is issued before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. If a hearing doesn’t happen 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 Phelps County, MO judge thinks you are.

During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and future protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Phelps County, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Phelps County, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Phelps 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:
- Harming a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing 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 confining 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” including following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device

Amidst these complex and highly emotional scenarios, the advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Phelps County, MO can make all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.

Combs Waterkotte: Your Phelps County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer

When you are facing an order of protection in Phelps County, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is adept in Phelps County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Phelps County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:

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 Phelps County, MO. Each and every one of our clients have a right to have their story shared in court.
Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of experienced legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to formulate robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation free of charge to assess the specifics of your case, answer your questions, review your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
Evidence collection — Our team assists in collecting and preserving crucial evidence to fortify your defense, ensuring that no detail is missed and the court will get the full version of all perspectives of the story.
Court representation — We deliver resolute representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and future at all phases.
Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.

With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Phelps County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, getting the help and advocacy you deserve amidst this tough time.

What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection

Immediate Actions

Whenever served with an order of protection in Phelps County, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:

Read the order thoroughly — Start with meticulously reading the order of protection document you received. Understand its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, understanding it and following it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, including criminal charges.
Document all communication — Keep a detailed record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the petitioner. This record can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a competent attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to defend your rights and future most effectively.
Notify your attorney — Provide all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Candidness is key to building a strong defense.
Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.

Taking these prompt actions will lay the foundation for a robust defense and help defend your rights during the Phelps County, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, such as that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Phelps County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to direct you through this process.

The Legal Process

After taking immediate steps after being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will occur:

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 the legal defenses you have.
Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Be present at all scheduled hearings with your attorney to ensure your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. 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 Phelps County, MO, Missouri

Facing an order of protection can result in a range of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:

Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the mandated restriction on contacting the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, notably if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can result in the loss of personal freedoms, like restrictions on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and possible incarceration.
Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be forbidden from possessing firearms as per 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 immigrant, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.

Considering the seriousness of the potential consequences, you need seasoned and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Phelps County, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our experienced attorneys are focused on defending your rights, looking into legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complications of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your advocate and guide.

Other cases we take on in Phelps County, MO include:

Call Combs Waterkotte’s Phelps County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today

If you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly recommend you to set up a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this crucial initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss the details of your case, express your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.

To begin the first step towards ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Phelps County, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Phelps County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.

Through Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to supporting you throughout the legal journey, offering unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to get in touch with us today to discuss your order of protection case in Phelps County, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.