Springfield, MO

Posted by Emily Herr on October 13, 2023

Order of Protection Lawyer Springfield, MO

Combs Waterkotte’s expert Springfield, 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 defense solutions to help good people caught in bad situations. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Springfield, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a no-risk, no-obligation consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.

What Is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a vital legal tool designed to ensure the safety of people who may be confronting dangers, harassment, or violence from another party. It serves as a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that requires the alleged perpetrator to abstain from 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 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 petitioner and they person they say is a risk. The ex parte order occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until a hearing. If a hearing doesn’t take place 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 Springfield, 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 Springfield, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Springfield, 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 achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Springfield, MO

Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two main instances where someone can file an order of protection: abuse and stalking.

Abuse — Abuse can be acts, attempts or threats involving:
- Mistreating a pet
- Assault, or putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to pressure a person to comply
- 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 confining somebody somewhere against their will
Stalking — Stalking implies intentionally undertaking 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” such as tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any means or device

Within such complicated and highly emotional scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Springfield, MO can make all the difference in making sure that the legal process is adhered to appropriately and that all parties’ rights are protected.

Combs Waterkotte: Your Springfield, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer

If you’re facing an order of protection in Springfield, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the details involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Springfield and Missouri order of protection law. As your Springfield, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:

Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte maintains a strong track record of securing the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Springfield, MO. All of our clients are entitled to have their story presented in court.
Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of veteran legal professionals with deep 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 provide an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, discuss your legal options, and formulate a customized legal strategy.
Evidence collection — Our team assists in assembling and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will receive the full version of both sides of the story.
Court representation — We provide resolute representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at all phases.
Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.

By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Springfield, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible defense team, receiving the assistance and advocacy you deserve amidst this tough time.

What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection

Immediate Actions

If served with an order of protection in Springfield, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to defend your rights and interests:

Read the order thoroughly — Begin by carefully reading the order of protection document you received. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, comprehending it and abiding by it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can result in serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
Document all communication — Maintain a detailed record of any communication, interactions or incidents concerning the other party. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, get in touch with a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is vital to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
Notify your attorney — Give all relevant information with your attorney, including details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Transparency is key to creating a solid defense.
Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on entering your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to prevent further legal complications.

Taking these swift actions will set the foundation for a solid defense and help safeguard your rights throughout the Springfield, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, akin to that offered by Combs Waterkotte’s Springfield, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is essential to direct you through this process.

The Legal Process

After taking prompt steps post being served an order of protection, it’s imperative to understand the legal process that will occur:

Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline your side of the story and your legal strategy.
Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Participate in all scheduled hearings with your attorney to guarantee your voice is heard and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your version of events. The hearing usually comprises:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)

Consequences of an Order of Protection in Springfield, MO, Missouri

Facing an order of protection can cause a spectrum of notable consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:

Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on reaching out to 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, such as constraints on where you can go and who you can associate with.
Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, like arrest and potential incarceration.
Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be banned from owning firearms as per 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. Violating an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.

Considering the seriousness of the potential consequences, you need knowledgeable and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Springfield, MO and is committed to lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are focused on defending your rights, investigating legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not navigate the complexities of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.

Other cases we take on in Springfield, MO include:

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

If you are dealing with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously urge you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the chance to go over the details of your case, convey your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.

To take the first step towards ensuring your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Springfield, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Springfield, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.

Through Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side through the legal journey, offering unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Do not delay to get in touch with us today to talk about your order of protection case in Springfield, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.