Ballwin, MO Order of Protection Lawyer
Combs Law’s dedicated Ballwin, 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 impressive track record of excellence, Combs Law 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 Ballwin, 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 crucial legal measure designed to ensure the well-being of people who may be confronting risks, harassment, or violence from someone in their family or household. It serves as a court-issued directive–signed by a judge–that compels the alleged perpetrator to avoid 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 evaluates the petition and thinks there is justifiable reason, 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 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 Ballwin, MO judge thinks you are.
It’s at this hearing that you need your rights and interests protected by talented order of protection defense lawyers in Ballwin, MO. If you were handed an order of protection in Ballwin, MO, reach out to Combs Law right away at (314) 900-HELP. We will endeavor to have your order of protection dismissed and achieve the best possible resolution to your case.
Common Situations Involving Orders of Protection in Ballwin, MO
Missouri’s Domestic Violence Act presents two chief 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 inflicting physical harm
- Coercion, or leveraging threats to force a person to follow a specific action
- 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 confining somebody somewhere against their will
- Stalking — Stalking means intentionally participating 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 tracking, monitoring, observing, surveilling, threatening, or communicating through any method or device
In these intricate and emotionally charged scenarios, the counsel and representation of an order of protection defense lawyer in Ballwin, MO can be all the difference in making sure that the legal process is followed correctly and that all parties’ rights are protected.
Combs Law: Your Ballwin, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
Should you be facing an order of protection in Ballwin, MO, you require a defense lawyer with a profound understanding of the nuances involved. Our team of experienced attorneys is adept in Ballwin and Missouri order of protection law. As your Ballwin, MO order of protection defense lawyer, we provide:
- Proven successes — Combs Law boasts a consistent history of attaining the best possible outcomes for clients facing orders of protection and/or criminal charges in Ballwin, MO. Each and every one of our clients deserve to have their story shared in court.
- Expertise and experience — Our team is made up of experienced legal professionals with thorough knowledge of order of protection laws, courtroom procedures and negotiation strategies. We utilize this expertise to craft robust defenses suited for your unique circumstances.
- Legal consultation — We extend an initial consultation without any fees to evaluate the specifics of your case, address your questions, go over your legal options, and create a customized legal strategy.
- Evidence collection — Our team helps in collecting and preserving vital evidence to strengthen your defense, making sure that no detail is ignored and the court will hear the full version of all perspectives of the story.
- Court representation — We offer unwavering representation in court proceedings, advocating for your rights and interests at each stage.
- Negotiation — Our talented negotiators work to reach agreeable resolutions when possible, aiming to mitigate the impact of an order of protection on your life.
By choosing Combs Law as your dedicated Ballwin, MO order of protection defense lawyer, you can feel certain that you are getting the best possible defense team, getting the assistance and advocacy you deserve throughout this difficult time.
What to Do After Being Served With an Order of Protection
Immediate Actions
Whenever served with an order of protection in Ballwin, MO, it is vital to take immediate and deliberate steps to get the best possible results in your case:
- Read the order thoroughly — Start with meticulously reading the order of protection document you received. Comprehend its terms and restrictions to make sure of compliance. While you may not agree with everything it says, comprehending it and following it until the hearing is in your best interest in the long run.
- Do not violate the order — Comply closely to the stipulations mentioned in the order of protection. Any violation can lead to grave legal consequences, like arrest.
- Document all communication — Hold onto a comprehensive record of any communication, interactions or incidents involving the person who requested the order of protection. This log can serve as essential evidence in your defense.
- Contact an order of protection defense lawyer — Without delay, get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney with a background in order of protection cases. Securing legal representation is paramount to protect your rights and future most effectively.
- Notify your attorney — Provide all relevant information with your attorney, like details of the situation that caused the order of protection. Openness is key to building a solid defense.
- Restrictions on possessions — If the order of protection comes with restrictions on reaching your home or possessions, comply with these restrictions to avoid further legal complications.
Taking these prompt steps will set the foundation for a solid defense and help defend your rights through the Ballwin, MO order of protection case. Bear in mind that legal representation, akin to that given by Combs Law’s Ballwin, MO order of protection defense attorneys, is crucial to guide you through this process.
The Legal Process
Once taking prompt steps after being served an order of protection, it’s vital to understand the legal process that will transpire:
- Filing a response — Your attorney will aid you in crafting and filing a response to the order of protection. This response will detail your version of events and the legal defenses you have.
- Court dates — Be aware of the court dates and hearings tied to your case. Participate in all scheduled hearings with your attorney to guarantee your voice is recognized and the court does not side with the petitioner before hearing your side of the story. The hearing usually includes:
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony
- Cross-examination
- Legal arguments
- Issuance or denial of a protection order, including the duration and explanation of terms (if granted)
Consequences of an Order of Protection in Ballwin, MO, Missouri
Confronting an order of protection can cause a variety of significant consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:
- Restrictions on contact — The primary consequence is the mandated restriction on communicating with the protected party. This can disrupt personal relationships, particularly 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 constraints on where you can go and who you can associate with.
- Criminal charges — Breaking the terms of an order of protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and possible 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 becomes subject to a valid full order of protection.
- Immigration consequences — If you’re an immigrant, having an order of protection imposed on you may have consequences. Violating an order of protection can also result in immigration-related issues.
Given the seriousness of the potential consequences, you must have experienced and devoted legal representation. Combs Law understands the intricacies of order of protection cases in Ballwin, MO and is focused on lessening the impact of these orders on your life. Our seasoned attorneys are focused on defending your rights, exploring legal options, and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wade through the complications of an order of protection alone – allow Combs Law be your champion and guide.
Call Combs Law’s Ballwin, MO Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Today
If you are confronted with an order of protection or seek legal advice in such matters, we highly recommend you to set up a consultation with Combs Law. In this crucial initial meeting, you will have the chance to go over the details of your case, voice your concerns, and acquire insights into the legal options accessible for you.
To begin the first step in the direction of safeguarding your rights and future in an order of protection case in Ballwin, MO, reach out to an order of protection defense lawyer in Ballwin, MO now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us through our website for a no-obligation consultation.
With Combs Law, we are dedicated to supporting you throughout the legal journey, giving unwavering support, expertise, and advocacy. Do not delay to contact us now to go over your order of protection case in Ballwin, MO and take proactive steps towards defending your rights and future.