Lafayette, MO

Order of Protection Lawyer Lafayette, MO

Combs Waterkotte’s expert Lafayette, 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 tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Lafayette, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us through our website for a free consultation. You can check out our defense victories here.

What Is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection, also called a restraining order, is a crucial legal instrument designed to safeguard individuals who may be dealing with dangers, harassment, or violence from another party. It is a court-issued document–signed by a judge–that orders the accused to abstain from any form of contact with the petitioner.

Under Missouri Revised Statute §455.020, anybody who is a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can file an restraining order alleging those actions against a current relative or household member.

If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, they can issue an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the petitioner and their alleged abuser. 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 Lafayette, MO judge thinks you are.

It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and future protected by experienced order of protection defense lawyers in Lafayette, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Lafayette, MO, reach out to Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We will strive to have your order of protection dismissed and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.

Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Lafayette, MO

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

1. Abuse — Abuse can be acts, attempts or threats involving:
   • Harming a pet
   • Assault, or placing another person in fear of physical harm
   • Battery, or inflicting physical harm
   • Coercion, or leveraging threats to pressure a person to comply
   • 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
2. Stalking — Stalking implies purposefully engaging in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
   • Alarm means to invoke fear of physical harm
   • Course of conduct means two or more acts that “serve no legitimate purpose” including following, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device

In these intricate and intense scenarios, the guidance and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Lafayette, MO can be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is followed correctly and that everyone’s rights are protected.

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

Should you be facing an order of protection in Lafayette, MO, you need a defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of the intricacies involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is proficient in Lafayette and Missouri order of protection law. As your Lafayette, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:

• Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a strong track record of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Lafayette, MO. All of our clients have a right to have their story heard in court.
• Expertise and experience — Our team comprises seasoned legal professionals with deep knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We leverage this expertise to craft robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
• Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to assess the specifics of your case, answer 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 is missed and the court will get the full version of every angle of the story.
• Court representation — We offer resolute representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and future at every step.
• 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 Lafayette, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can rest assured that you are in trustworthy hands, benefiting from the help and advocacy you deserve during this difficult time.

What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection

Immediate Actions

When served with an order of protection in Lafayette, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to safeguard your rights and interests:

• Read the order thoroughly — Begin by thoroughly reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not accept everything it says, comprehending it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
• Obey the order — Stick firmly to the stipulations outlined in the order of protection. Any violation can cause severe legal consequences, including criminal charges.
• Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any correspondence, interactions or incidents concerning the other party. This documentation can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
• Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, reach out to a knowledgeable attorney with experience in order of protection cases. Getting legal representation is essential to safeguard your rights and future in the best manner.
• Notify your attorney — Share all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Openness is key to forming a strong defense.
• Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection has restrictions on entering your home or possessions, adhere to these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.

Taking these immediate actions will lay the foundation for a robust defense and aid protect your rights through the Lafayette, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, akin to that given by Combs Waterkotte’s Lafayette, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.

The Legal Process

Upon taking prompt steps following being served an order of protection, it’s essential to understand the legal process that will unfold:

• Filing a response — Your attorney will help you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will depict your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
• 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 heard 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
  • Approval or rejection of a protection order, along with the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)

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

Confronting an order of protection can cause a variety of significant consequences that reach beyond the courtroom:

• Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the mandated 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 cause the loss of personal freedoms, like limitations on where you can go and who you can associate with.
• Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can cause criminal charges, such as arrest and potential incarceration.
• Firearm restrictions — A respondent subject to an order of protection may be banned from owning firearms according to federal law.
• Suspension of concealed carry permit — A concealed carry permit may be suspended if the holder becomes subject to a valid full order of protection.
• Immigration consequences — If you’re an alien, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Infringing an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.

Taking into account the seriousness of the potential consequences, you require experienced and committed legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte knows the nuances of order of protection cases in Lafayette, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are focused on defending your rights, investigating legal options, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Do not traverse the complexities of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Waterkotte be your champion and guide.

Other cases we take on in Lafayette, MO include:

• Assault Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys

Call Combs Waterkotte’s Lafayette, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Now

If you are facing an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we vigorously recommend you to arrange for a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss the details of your case, express your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options open to you.

To begin the first step in the direction of securing your rights and interests in an order of protection case in Lafayette, MO, speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Lafayette, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a complimentary consultation.

With Combs Waterkotte, we are focused on supporting you through the legal journey, giving resolute support, knowledge, and advocacy. Don’t delay to get in touch with us now to go over your order of protection case in Lafayette, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.