Order of Protection Lawyer Rolla, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s expert Rolla, 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 effective defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Rolla, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a essential legal instrument designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be confronting dangers, harassment, or assault from someone in their family or household. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the accused to refrain from 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 evaluates the petition and thinks there is “good cause”, 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 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 Rolla, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and interests protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Rolla, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Rolla, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Rolla, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides 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 placing another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to force 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 holding somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means deliberately engaging in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to invoke fear of physical harm
- Course of conduct means two or more acts that “serve no legitimate purpose” like tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
Amidst these complex and emotionally charged scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Rolla, MO can prove to be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is followed appropriately and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Rolla, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Rolla, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Rolla and Missouri order of protection law. As your Rolla, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a proven history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients who received orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Rolla, MO. Each and every one of our clients deserve to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises experienced legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We tap into this expertise to design robust defenses tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We offer an initial consultation at no cost to evaluate the specifics of your case, address your questions, review your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in gathering and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, ensuring that no detail is ignored and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We deliver steadfast representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at every step.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Rolla, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting the support and advocacy you require during this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Rolla, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with carefully reading the order of protection document you received. Grasp its terms and restrictions to ensure 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 — Stick firmly to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to severe legal consequences, such as criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Keep a thorough record of any interactions, interactions or incidents related to the person who requested the order of protection. This log can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is paramount to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Share all applicable information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that led to the order of protection. Candidness is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will lay the foundation for a robust defense and help protect your rights during the Rolla, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, akin to that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Rolla, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking swift steps post being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will assist you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your version of events and your defense strategy.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings related to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before you have your day in court. The hearing usually includes:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Rolla, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can lead to a range of major consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The foremost consequence is the imposed restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, particularly if you have in common 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 spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, such as arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be forbidden from owning 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 alien, having an order of protection placed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Considering the severity of the potential consequences, you must have experienced and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Rolla, MO and is focused on lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to defending your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the complexities of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Rolla, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Rolla, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
If you are facing an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously urge you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to go over the details of your case, convey your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the preliminary step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Rolla, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Rolla, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.
Through Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to supporting you through the legal journey, providing unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to reach out to us today to go over your order of protection case in Rolla, MO and take proactive steps towards protecting your rights and future.
