Order of Protection Lawyer Sedalia, MO. Combs Waterkotte’s expert Sedalia, 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 tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Sedalia, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a free consultation. Take a look at 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 called a restraining order, is a critical legal measure designed to ensure the safety of individuals who may be dealing with dangers, harassment, or violence from another party. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to refrain from any form of contact with the person who requested the order of protection.
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 relative or household member.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say abused them. The ex parte order occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. 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 Sedalia, MO judge thinks you are.
During this pivotal hearing you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Sedalia, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Sedalia, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible 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 Sedalia, 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 placing another person in fear of physical harm
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to compel a person to follow a specific action
- Harassment, or participating 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 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” like tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any medium or device
In these intricate and emotionally charged scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Sedalia, MO can prove to be all the difference in ensuring that the legal process is followed correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Sedalia, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
When you are facing an order of protection in Sedalia, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the details involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in Sedalia and Missouri order of protection law. As your Sedalia, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a strong track record of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Sedalia, MO. Every single one of our clients deserve to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of experienced 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 extend an initial consultation without any fees to evaluate the specifics of your case, address your questions, review your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, ensuring that no detail goes overlooked and the court will get the full version of every angle of the story.
- Court representation — We offer steadfast representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators work to reach favorable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Sedalia, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in competent hands, receiving the support and advocacy you need throughout this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Sedalia, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with thoroughly reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to ensure compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, knowing it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Do not violate the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can result in grave legal consequences, including criminal charges.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This record can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to protect your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all applicable information with your attorney, including details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to building a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.
Taking these immediate steps will establish the foundation for a robust defense and help protect your rights through the Sedalia, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, such as that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Sedalia, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is vital to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
After taking swift steps after being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will occur:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your version of events and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings related to your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances 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 consists of:
- 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 Sedalia, MO, Missouri
Encountering an order of protection can cause a spectrum of major consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly 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, like limitations on where you can go and who you can spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, like arrest and possible incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under 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 affected by a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an alien, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also lead to immigration-related issues.
Given the seriousness of the potential consequences, you must have knowledgeable and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Sedalia, MO and is committed to minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to protecting your rights, exploring legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – let Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Sedalia, MO include:
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Sedalia, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
In the event that you are dealing with an order of protection or require legal guidance in such matters, we highly recommend you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this essential initial meeting, you will have the occasion to discuss the details of your case, voice your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options open to you.
To take the preliminary step towards securing your defense in an order of protection case in Sedalia, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Sedalia, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a free consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on standing by your side throughout the legal journey, giving resolute support, legal skill, and advocacy. Do not wait to reach out to us now to talk about your order of protection case in Sedalia, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
