Order of Protection Lawyer Washington, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s professional Washington, 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 legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Washington, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us through our website 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 measure designed to ensure the well-being of individuals who may be facing threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that orders 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 restraining order alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
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 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 Washington, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and interests protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Washington, MO. If you were served with an order of protection in Washington, MO, contact Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Washington, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act offers two chief 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 placing another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or employing threats to force a person to act in a certain way
- Harassment, or taking part 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 implies 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 following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
Within such complicated and highly emotional scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Washington, MO can be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed correctly and that no ones rights are infringed on.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Washington, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Washington, MO, you should have a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the details involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is adept in Washington and Missouri order of protection law. As your Washington, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte boasts a consistent history of securing the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Washington, MO. Each and every one of our clients are entitled to have their story shared 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 suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation free of charge to assess the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and develop a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team works in gathering and preserving essential evidence to fortify your defense, ensuring that no detail goes overlooked and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, standing up for your rights and interests at all phases.
- Negotiation — Our adept negotiators endeavor to reach favorable resolutions when possible, aiming to reduce the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Washington, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, getting the support and advocacy you need throughout this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
When served with an order of protection in Washington, MO, it is imperative to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with thoroughly reading the order of protection document you received. Grasp its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, knowing it and following it until the hearing is in your best long-term advantage.
- Do not violate the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can result in severe legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the petitioner. This log can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Immediately, get in touch with a qualified attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is vital to protect your rights and future in the best manner.
- Notify your attorney — Share all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Openness is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, abide by these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these swift steps will lay the foundation for a strong defense and assist protect your rights through the Washington, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, like that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Washington, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to lead you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once 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 preparing and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your side of the story and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Stay informed of the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Be present at all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to ensure your voice is recognized 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
- Granting or refusal of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Washington, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can cause a variety of major consequences that go beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the enforced restriction on contacting the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, notably if you have in common children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can result in the loss of personal freedoms, such as limitations on where you can go and who you can be with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be forbidden from having 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 placed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Given the gravity of the potential consequences, you must have knowledgeable and dedicated legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the nuances of order of protection cases in Washington, MO and is focused on minimizing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are focused on defending your rights, looking into legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate the challenges of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Washington, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now
If you are facing an order of protection or need legal advice in such matters, we strongly encourage you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the chance to go over the details of your case, express your concerns, and gain insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the first step towards ensuring your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Washington, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Washington, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side throughout the legal journey, giving resolute support, legal skill, and advocacy. Don’t wait to get in touch with us now to discuss your order of protection case in Washington, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
