Order of Protection Lawyer Wentzville, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s expert Wentzville, 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 highly successful legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Wentzville, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online for a complimentary consultation. Take a look at our defense victories here.
Understanding Orders of Protection
An order of protection, also known as a restraining order, is a essential legal measure designed to ensure the well-being of individuals who may be dealing with threats, harassment, or violence from someone else. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that requires the accused to abstain 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 order of protection alleging those actions against a current relative or someone who lives with them.
If a judge determines there is justifiable reason, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and they person they say is a risk. The ex parte order occurs before a hearing and remains in effect until all parties gather for a court appearance. 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 Wentzville, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Wentzville, MO. If you were given an order of protection in Wentzville, MO, get in touch with Combs Waterkotte right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and secure the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Wentzville, 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 putting another person in fear of being physically injured
- Battery, or causing physical harm
- Coercion, or utilizing threats to compel 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 purposefully 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 advice and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Wentzville, MO can prove to be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is adhered to correctly and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Wentzville, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an order of protection in Wentzville, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the details involved. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is proficient in Wentzville and Missouri order of protection law. As your Wentzville, 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 Wentzville, MO. All of our clients deserve to have their story heard in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team consists of seasoned legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to design robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to evaluate the specifics of your case, respond to your questions, review your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in gathering and preserving crucial evidence to fortify your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will get the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We provide unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our skilled negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
With Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Wentzville, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are getting the best possible defense team, receiving the assistance and advocacy you deserve throughout this tough time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Wentzville, MO, it is crucial 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. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not concur with everything it says, comprehending it and following it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Comply closely to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to serious legal consequences, including arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the petitioner. This record can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Promptly, contact a qualified attorney with expertise in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to defend your rights and future in the most optimal way.
- Notify your attorney — Share all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Candidness is key to forming a strong defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on entering your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these immediate actions will lay the foundation for a strong defense and aid defend your rights throughout the Wentzville, MO order of protection case. Remember that legal representation, akin to that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Wentzville, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking swift steps following being served an order of protection, it’s essential 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 detail your version of events and your legal strategy.
- Court dates — Keep in mind the court dates and hearings associated with your case. Participate in all scheduled court appearances with your attorney to guarantee your voice is recognized 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
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Wentzville, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the enforced restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can interfere with personal relationships, notably if you share children, a residence, or other common interests.
- Impact on personal life — Orders of protection can result in the loss of personal freedoms, including limitations on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Violating the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, such as arrest and potential incarceration.
- Firearm restrictions — A respondent under an order of protection may be forbidden from owning firearms as per 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 immigrant, having an order of protection issued against you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also cause immigration-related issues.
Taking into account the gravity of the potential consequences, you require experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the intricacies of order of protection cases in Wentzville, MO and is committed to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights, exploring legal options, and aiming for the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t traverse the challenges of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.
Other cases we take on in Wentzville, MO include:
- Gun Crime Lawyer
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
Call Combs Waterkotte’s Wentzville, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are confronted with an order of protection or seek legal guidance in such matters, we highly recommend you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. In this vital initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss the details of your case, convey your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To take the preliminary step in the direction of ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Wentzville, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Wentzville, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.
With Combs Waterkotte, we are committed to supporting you through the legal journey, offering unwavering support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to contact us now to discuss your order of protection case in Wentzville, MO and take proactive steps towards safeguarding your rights and future.
