Order of Protection Lawyer Osage County, MO
Combs Waterkotte’s dedicated Osage County, 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 effective defense solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Speak to an order of protection defense lawyer in Osage County, MO today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-cost 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 vital legal instrument designed to ensure the safety of people who may be dealing with dangers, harassment, or violence from someone in their family or household. It is a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that requires the alleged perpetrator to avoid any form of contact with the petitioner.
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 family member or someone who lives with them.
If a judge evaluates the petition and thinks there is compelling rationale, they can provide an “ex parte order of protection,” which limits contact between the alleged victim and their alleged abuser. The ex parte order is issued 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 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 Osage County, MO judge thinks you are.
At this crucial hearing you need your rights and future protected by expert order of protection defense lawyers in Osage County, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Osage County, MO, reach out to 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 Osage County, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act provides 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 physical harm
- Battery, or inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to force 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
- Kidnapping, or confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means purposefully engaging in an unwanted course of conduct that causes alarm.
- Alarm means to cause 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 medium or device
Amidst these complex and intense scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Osage County, MO can be all the difference in guaranteeing that the legal process is followed correctly and that each individual’s rights are protected.
Combs Waterkotte: Your Osage County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Osage County, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a deep understanding of the details involved. Our team of seasoned attorneys is well-versed in Osage County and Missouri order of protection law. As your Osage County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we offer:
- Proven successes — Combs Waterkotte has a proven track record of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients dealing with orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Osage County, MO. All of our clients have a right to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team comprises experienced legal professionals with in-depth knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to formulate robust defenses specific to your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We provide an initial consultation at no cost to assess the specifics of your case, answer your questions, review your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team assists in collecting and preserving essential evidence to bolster your defense, guaranteeing that no detail is missed and the court will receive the full version of both sides of the story.
- Court representation — We provide resolute representation in court proceedings, fighting for your rights and future at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators endeavor to reach amicable resolutions when possible, striving to lessen the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Waterkotte as your dedicated Osage County, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible defense team, receiving the assistance and advocacy you deserve amidst this challenging time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
If served with an order of protection in Osage County, MO, it is crucial to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Begin by thoroughly reading the order of protection document you’ve been served. Understand its terms and restrictions to guarantee compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, comprehending it and adhering to it until the hearing is in your long-term best interest.
- Obey the order — Adhere strictly to the stipulations specified in the order of protection. Any violation can cause serious legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Keep a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the other party. This log can serve as crucial evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, contact a competent attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Obtaining legal representation is essential to defend your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Share all pertinent information with your attorney, such as details of the situation that resulted in the order of protection. Transparency is key to creating a robust defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection includes restrictions on accessing your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to steer clear of further legal complications.
Taking these swift actions will establish the foundation for a robust defense and assist protect your rights throughout the Osage County, MO order of protection case. Keep in mind that legal representation, akin to that provided by Combs Waterkotte’s Osage County, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to direct you through this process.
The Legal Process
Upon taking immediate steps after being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will unfold:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in drafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will outline 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 acknowledged and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. 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 Osage County, MO, Missouri
Facing an order of protection can lead to a spectrum of major consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The most immediate consequence is the mandated restriction on reaching out to the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, notably 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 spend time with.
- Criminal charges — Infringing the terms of an order of protection can result in criminal charges, including 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. Breaking an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Considering the severity of the potential consequences, you must have seasoned and devoted legal representation. Combs Waaterkotte understands the subtleties of order of protection cases in Osage County, MO and is dedicated to reducing the impact of these orders on your life. Our knowledgeable attorneys are focused on protecting your rights, looking into legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Do not wade through the challenges of an order of protection alone – have Combs Waterkotte be your representative and guide.
Other cases we take on in Osage County, 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 Osage County, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing an order of protection or require legal advice in such matters, we strongly urge you to schedule a consultation with Combs Waterkotte. During this vital initial meeting, you will have the occasion to talk about the details of your case, express your concerns, and obtain insights into the legal options available to you.
To take the first step in the direction of ensuring your defense in an order of protection case in Osage County, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Osage County, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation.
At Combs Waterkotte, we are dedicated to standing by your side through the legal journey, offering steadfast support, legal skill, and advocacy. Don’t wait to reach out to us today to discuss your order of protection case in Osage County, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.
