Combs Waterkotte is the Leading Order of Protection Law Firm in Missouri.

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Combs Waterkotte is a top-rated restraining order defense law firm serving St. Louis and all of Missouri. Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients served with protective orders—many based on false or exaggerated claims. Our exceptional record and over 350 reviews speaks for itself. We help good people in bad situations, just like you.

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Cases Handled

Over 10,000

Jail Days Saved

Over 1 Million

Google Reviews

350+ Perfect

Legal Experience

Over 50 Years

Leading DWI lawyers and attorneys in Missouri

By Hiring Combs Waterkotte for your Ex Parte Order of Protection Lawyers:

We’ll guide you through the full hearing process and court timeline.
Build a clear defense against false or exaggerated allegations.
Protect your custody, parenting rights, and home access.
Over 50 years of combined restraining order legal experience.
Discreet and strategic legal representation.
Prevent firearm restrictions and lasting damage to your record.
Respond effectively to emergency orders with tight deadlines.
Support from attorneys experienced in both civil and criminal protective order cases.
Get on with your life.

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“Best group of criminal defense lawyers in the St. Louis area. I can’t say enough about them and the lengths that this firm will go to ensure presumption of innocence and actually fight for their clients.”

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We Win Order of Protection Cases in Missouri.

Over 10,000 Criminal Cases Closed
Over 350 Five-Star Google Reviews
Over Five Decades of Order of Protection Experience
Extensive Order of Protection Dismissals & Appeals
Multiple Major Media Apperances

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Leading Order of Protection lawyers and attorneys in Missouri

We Win What Can’t Be Won:

Combs Waterkotte’s order of protection lawyers have defended hundreds of clients accused of assault, abuse, harassment, or threats in connection with protective order filings. No matter the details or accusations, we know how to build a defense that protects your rights, your future, and your reputation.

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Call Now: (314) 900-HELP

You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact St. Louis’s best ex parte protection order attorneys at (314) 900-HELP to start fighting for your freedom and future today.

Ex Parte Orders

Ex parte protective orders are issued by a judge without your presence or input. Based solely on the petitioner’s sworn statement, these temporary orders can immediately restrict your ability to go home, see your children, or contact the other party. A hearing is typically scheduled within 15 days, but until then, the restrictions are enforceable by law.
Full Orders of Protection

A full order of protection is issued after a court hearing where both parties can present evidence. These orders may last up to one year or more, and can include no-contact provisions, stay-away orders, firearm restrictions, and more. Violating a full order can result in criminal charges and additional penalties.
Violation of a Protection Order

If you are accused of violating the terms of an active protection order — even by sending a text or responding to contact — you may face separate criminal charges. Missouri law treats these violations seriously, and penalties can include jail time, fines, and further restrictions.
Firearm Restrictions

Being subject to an order of protection can affect your right to possess or purchase firearms. Under both Missouri and federal law, protective orders may trigger automatic firearm prohibitions, regardless of whether you’ve been charged with a crime.
Custody and Parenting Impacts

Orders of protection can complicate or override existing custody arrangements. They may prevent you from seeing your children or restrict communication. If family court proceedings are ongoing, a protective order may influence temporary or permanent custody outcomes.
False or Exaggerated Claims

Not all protection orders are based on clear or accurate evidence. In some cases, they are filed out of retaliation, fear, or as leverage in family disputes. Missouri courts allow you to challenge these claims at a hearing, but without legal representation, the consequences may become permanent.
Harassment and Stalking Allegations

Protective orders are commonly granted based on harassment or stalking allegations, even if no physical violence occurred. This can include repeated calls, texts, social media contact, or following someone in person. These claims are often subjective and must be challenged carefully.
Emergency Hearings and Trial Representation

You have a right to a hearing, but these cases move quickly. If you miss court or arrive unprepared, the judge can issue a full order by default. An attorney can help you gather evidence, prepare witnesses, and argue your case effectively.
Criminal Charges Related to Protective Orders

In many cases, a protection order is just the beginning. You may also face criminal charges such as domestic assault, child endangerment, harassment, or tampering with a witness. These can carry serious legal consequences, including jail time and a permanent record.

Ex Parte Orders

Ex parte protective orders are issued by a judge without your presence or input. Based solely on the petitioner’s sworn statement, these temporary orders can immediately restrict your ability to go home, see your children, or contact the other party. A hearing is typically scheduled within 15 days, but until then, the restrictions are enforceable by law.
Full Orders of Protection

A full order of protection is issued after a court hearing where both parties can present evidence. These orders may last up to one year or more, and can include no-contact provisions, stay-away orders, firearm restrictions, and more. Violating a full order can result in criminal charges and additional penalties.
Violation of a Protection Order

If you are accused of violating the terms of an active protection order — even by sending a text or responding to contact — you may face separate criminal charges. Missouri law treats these violations seriously, and penalties can include jail time, fines, and further restrictions.
Firearm Restrictions

Being subject to an order of protection can affect your right to possess or purchase firearms. Under both Missouri and federal law, protective orders may trigger automatic firearm prohibitions, regardless of whether you’ve been charged with a crime.
Custody and Parenting Impacts

Orders of protection can complicate or override existing custody arrangements. They may prevent you from seeing your children or restrict communication. If family court proceedings are ongoing, a protective order may influence temporary or permanent custody outcomes.
False or Exaggerated Claims

Not all protection orders are based on clear or accurate evidence. In some cases, they are filed out of retaliation, fear, or as leverage in family disputes. Missouri courts allow you to challenge these claims at a hearing, but without legal representation, the consequences may become permanent.
Harassment and Stalking Allegations

Protective orders are commonly granted based on harassment or stalking allegations, even if no physical violence occurred. This can include repeated calls, texts, social media contact, or following someone in person. These claims are often subjective and must be challenged carefully.
Emergency Hearings and Trial Representation

You have a right to a hearing, but these cases move quickly. If you miss court or arrive unprepared, the judge can issue a full order by default. An attorney can help you gather evidence, prepare witnesses, and argue your case effectively.
Criminal Charges Related to Protective Orders

In many cases, a protection order is just the beginning. You may also face criminal charges such as domestic assault, child endangerment, harassment, or tampering with a witness. These can carry serious legal consequences, including jail time and a permanent record.

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Call Now: (314) 900-HELP

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Order of Protection Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Challenge an Order of Protection in Missouri?
Can I Challenge an Order of Protection in Missouri?
Is It Possible to Have an Order of Protection Removed or Modified in Missouri?
Is It Possible to Have an Order of Protection Removed or Modified in Missouri?
What Happens After an Ex Parte Order of Protection Hearing in Missouri?
What Happens After an Ex Parte Order of Protection Hearing in Missouri?
What Happens If I Violate an Order of Protection in Missouri?
What Happens If I Violate an Order of Protection in Missouri?

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Christopher Combs

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Matthew Brown

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Matthew Wideman

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The Leading Missouri Ex Parte and Order of Protection Attorneys Attorneys

Combs Waterkotte’s protective order defense attorneys are trial-tested defenders with extensive experience handling ex parte hearings, full orders of protection, order of protection appeals, and related criminal charges. Known for their client-centered approach, they work closely with each individual to build strong, personalized defenses. Our team has represented hundreds of individuals served with protective orders — including those tied to family disputes, breakups, and contested custody issues.

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Steven Waterkotte

Partner

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Christopher Combs

Partner

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Matthew Brown

Senior Associate Attorney

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Matthew Wideman

Of Counsel

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Andrew Russek

Associate Attorney

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We help people good people in bad situations, just like you.

Whether a situation escalated outside your control, you let your emotions get the best of you, or you’re facing false or exaggerated accusations, being served with an order of protection can cause both immediate and long-lasting consequences on your freedoms. The fear of losing custody, not being able to travel freely, and having a stain on your reputation can weight heavily on your mind, especially if you are facing related criminal charges.

Guiding you through the entire ex parte and order of protection process, from start to finish.

We’ll be by your side immediately after you’re served. From preparing for the hearing, challenging the alleged victim’s testimony, or arguing for a full dismissal of the order, we provide clear guidance and strong advocacy at every stage. The order of protection attorneys at Combs Waterkotte understand what’s at stake—your record, your rights, and your future—and our only priority is getting you the best possible outcome. With a focus on protecting your freedom and minimizing long-term consequences, we stand by you from start to finish.

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