Is It Possible to Have an Order of Protection Removed or Modified in Missouri?

Yes. Missouri law allows respondents to petition the court to modify or terminate an order of protection—also known as a restraining order. However, success depends on your circumstances and how effectively your case is presented. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced defense attorneys are ready to help you fight for your rights and restore your freedom.

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• Child Custody or Visitation Conflicts: If the order interferes with your parenting rights, the court may adjust terms to allow supervised or structured contact.
• Employment or Residence Conflicts: If you’re banned from your job or home due to the order, the court may revise restrictions to accommodate access.
• Mutual Consent: When both parties agree to change the terms—such as communication boundaries or living arrangements—the court can formalize the agreement.

Under Missouri Revised Statutes §455.060, you must file a formal motion with the same court that issued the order. This motion must include:

• Clear justification for the change
• Supporting evidence (documents, witness statements, etc.)
• Information on changed circumstances since the original order

The court will then hold a hearing where both sides may present arguments.

Let our team help you navigate the legal process. Call (314) 900-HELP or request a free consultation online.

• What Are My Rights If Accused of Sexual Assault?
• Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dropped?
• Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Innocent in a Sex Crime Case?
• What Happens During a Sexual Assault Investigation?

• Order of Protection Defense Lawyer Missouri
• Sex Crimes Defense
• Domestic Violence Defense

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What Are My Rights If Accused of Sexual Assault in Missouri?

Being accused of sexual assault can be one of the most devastating experiences in your life—but it’s important to remember that you have rights. Combs Waterkotte is here to protect them.

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• The Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to an experienced attorney who will fight for your future. Our legal team has defended thousands of Missourians against sex crime accusations.
• The Right to Remain Silent: Do NOT speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Exercise your Fifth Amendment rights immediately.
• The Right to a Fair Trial: You are innocent until proven guilty. Our defense attorneys ensure your side of the story is heard.
• The Right to Present and Challenge Evidence: You can introduce witnesses and dispute the prosecution’s claims. We scrutinize every detail of your case to build your defense.

Accusations are not convictions. If you or a loved one has been accused of sexual assault in Missouri, don’t wait. Call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a confidential, free consultation with our defense team.

• How Long Does a Sexual Assault Case Take?
• What Happens During a Sexual Assault Investigation?
• Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dropped?
• Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Innocent?

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• Sexual Abuse Defense
• Sexual Contact With a Student
• Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
• Statutory Rape Defense

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Do Courts Always Believe the Alleged Victim in Domestic Violence Cases?

No—courts do not automatically side with the alleged victim in domestic violence cases. Allegations alone are not enough to convict. At Combs Waterkotte, we fight to ensure your rights are protected and that the court sees the full picture—not just one side of the story.

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Missouri courts are guided by the principle that every defendant is innocent until proven guilty. The alleged victim’s statement is considered evidence—but not proof. Prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Our domestic violence defense attorneys hold them to that burden.

• Medical records and injury reports
• Statements from both parties and witnesses
• Text messages, emails, and call logs
• Police bodycam and written reports
• Any history of prior allegations or incidents

During trial, our attorneys can cross-examine the alleged victim to expose inconsistencies or falsehoods. Courts are aware that domestic violence claims can be used to gain leverage in family court disputes or arise from personal conflicts.

Don’t assume the truth will speak for itself. Call Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation with a Missouri domestic violence defense attorney.

• Domestic Violence Lawyer in Missouri
• Aggravated Assault Lawyer
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What Happens During a Sexual Assault Investigation?

Being accused of sexual assault in Missouri is a life-altering experience. If you're under investigation, it’s critical to understand the process—and your rights. A sexual assault investigation involves more than just collecting evidence. It includes interviews, forensic testing, and often, strategic decisions by prosecutors that may lead to charges. Don’t wait to protect yourself.

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Investigations often begin when an accuser reports the incident to police—sometimes immediately, sometimes much later. Police will usually:

• Take a formal statement from the accuser
• Collect names of witnesses and physical evidence
• Order or review a Sexual Assault Kit (SAK or rape kit)
• Request interviews with the accused

At this stage, you might not even be aware that you’re under investigation. But once you are, do not speak to law enforcement without your defense attorney present.

Law enforcement is building a case—even if they claim it’s “just a conversation.” Every word you say can be used against you. Hiring a sex crimes defense lawyer immediately can prevent serious mistakes and give you the best chance at protecting your rights.

• How Long Does a Sexual Assault Case Take?
• Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dropped?
• Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Innocent in a Sex Crime Case?
• What Are My Rights If Accused of Sexual Assault?

At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve defended thousands of clients in Missouri facing serious sex crime allegations. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.

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Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Innocent in a Sex Crime Case?

If you’re innocent, you might think the truth will protect you. But the truth is, innocent people get convicted every day—especially in emotionally charged cases like sex crimes. In Missouri, it takes more than innocence to win. It takes a skilled legal defense.

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The prosecution’s job isn’t to find out if you’re innocent. It’s to prove you’re guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Without a qualified defense attorney, even flimsy accusations can lead to:

• Wrongful convictions
• Sex offender registration
• Years in prison
• Permanent damage to your reputation and career

Having a lawyer isn’t about hiding guilt—it’s about protecting your rights and future from a broken system that too often gets it wrong.

An experienced sex crimes defense attorney will:

• Scrutinize every detail of the accuser’s story
• Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Gather evidence that proves your innocence
• Ensure your constitutional rights aren’t violated

At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve helped thousands of people just like you get their lives back. We know what it takes to beat false allegations—and we don’t back down.

• How Long Does a Sexual Assault Case Take?
• What Happens During a Sexual Assault Investigation?
• Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dropped?
• What Are My Rights If Accused of Sexual Assault?

Call (314) 900-HELP or schedule your free consultation with a Missouri sex crime lawyer today.

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Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dropped in Missouri?

Yes — sex crime charges in Missouri can be dropped, but it’s not easy. Prosecutors take these accusations seriously, and unless the evidence is clearly weak or mishandled, they’re often determined to take the case to trial. That’s why having an experienced Missouri sex crimes lawyer is critical if you hope to get your charges dismissed before trial.

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Charges may be dropped if the prosecution decides there isn’t enough evidence or if legal errors occurred during the investigation. That could include:

• Inconsistent or unreliable accuser testimony
• Lack of physical or corroborating evidence
• Improper police procedure or rights violations
• New evidence that undermines the original accusation

In rare situations, a judge — not the prosecutor — may dismiss the charges if your rights were violated or the legal grounds for the case are insufficient.

Having your case dropped means the prosecution ends the case before trial. An acquittal means a trial occurred and you were found “Not Guilty.” Both protect your freedom, but dropped charges usually save you the stress and financial burden of court altogether.

At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve handled thousands of cases and know exactly what it takes to convince prosecutors to drop sex crime charges — or dismantle them in court. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Let us evaluate your case and build a strategy that protects your future.

• How Long Does a Sexual Assault Case Take?
• What Happens During a Sexual Assault Investigation?
• Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Innocent in a Sex Crime Case?
• What Are My Rights If Accused of Sexual Assault?

Call (314) 900-HELP or schedule a free, confidential consultation with a Missouri sex crime defense attorney today.

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How Can I Prove My Innocence in a Sex Crime Case?

Being falsely accused of a sex crime is terrifying — and potentially life-ruining. But under U.S. and Missouri law, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced sex crime defense attorneys know what it takes to protect your rights and fight back against false or exaggerated accusations.

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While the legal system says you're innocent until proven guilty, sex crime accusations often come with immediate consequences: lost jobs, damaged relationships, and ruined reputations. Prosecutors may rely on emotional testimony or shaky evidence — that’s why you need a defense attorney who knows how to fight back.

Your lawyer will build a strategy to attack the prosecution’s case and present evidence in your defense. Common sex crime defense tactics include:

• Challenging credibility: Showing inconsistencies in the accuser’s story.
• Alibi defense: Proving you were elsewhere during the alleged incident.
• Motive or bias: Highlighting possible reasons for a false accusation.
• Lack of evidence: Undermining forensic or circumstantial claims.
• Consent: In some cases, demonstrating that the act was consensual.

At Combs Waterkotte, we prepare every case like it's going to trial — because your future is worth fighting for. Whether your case ends in dismissal, reduction of charges, or a full acquittal, our team is committed to delivering the strongest possible defense for sex crime allegations anywhere in Missouri.

• How Long Does a Sexual Assault Case Take?
• What Happens During a Sexual Assault Investigation?
• Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dropped?
• Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Innocent in a Sex Crime Case?
• What Are My Rights If Accused of Sexual Assault?

Call (314) 900-HELP or request a free, confidential consultation with a Missouri sex crimes defense lawyer today.

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Can I Be Arrested for a Sex Crime Without Evidence?

Yes — in Missouri, an arrest for a sex crime can happen even if there’s no physical or forensic evidence. Testimony alone, such as a credible statement from the alleged victim, can be enough to justify arrest and prosecution. If you're under investigation or already charged, it’s critical to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney right away.

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Contrary to popular belief, evidence is not limited to DNA, fingerprints, or video recordings. In sex crime cases, the following forms of evidence can lead to arrest:

• Testimony: A victim’s credible account can be considered evidence on its own.
• Circumstantial Evidence: Indirect indications, like suspicious behavior or text messages, can support an arrest.
• Behavioral Evidence: Attempts to avoid law enforcement or flee the area may also be factored in.

Law enforcement evaluates the totality of these elements to determine if probable cause exists. Unfortunately, this means that innocent people can face arrest and charges based solely on an accusation.

Combs Waterkotte’s Missouri sex crime defense attorneys understand how high the stakes are. We fight false accusations, challenge weak evidence, and protect your freedom and future every step of the way.

• Sex Crimes Defense
• Sexual Abuse
• Sexual Contact with a Student
• Sexual Misconduct
• Sex Offender Registry Violations
• Statutory Sex Crimes
• Statutory Rape Defense

Contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or request a free consultation online.

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Cocaine Drug Charges Defense Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Accused of cocaine possession, distribution, or trafficking in Missouri? Combs Waterkotte is the leading criminal defense firm trusted across St. Louis, Kansas City, and statewide to defend against serious drug charges — including cocaine-related offenses. Don’t let a conviction derail your future.

Cocaine Drug Charges Lawyer in Missouri

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Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug under Missouri and federal law, meaning it is considered highly addictive and dangerous. Even a small amount can lead to a felony charge. Missouri laws impose strict penalties based on possession amount, intent, and location of the offense.

• Possession of Cocaine: Class D felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison
• Distribution: Higher felony class depending on quantity, minor involvement, or proximity to schools
• Trafficking: Serious felony with mandatory minimums

Missouri has reduced its sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine, but it remains significant. Currently, someone convicted of possessing crack faces sentences nearly 19 times more severe than for the same weight of powder. This disparity still unfairly impacts minority defendants and raises serious equity concerns.

• Experienced in both state and federal cocaine defense cases
• Deep understanding of Missouri drug laws and disparities
• Compassionate team that sees the person, not just the charge
• Strategic courtroom advocacy aimed at reducing or dismissing charges

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Even a first-time cocaine offense can lead to a felony conviction, prison time, and a lifetime of consequences. Contact our Missouri cocaine defense lawyers today for a free consultation.

Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to get started.

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Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer Serving St. Louis, Kansas City, and All of Missouri

Charged with credit card fraud in Missouri? Whether it's a misunderstanding, a false accusation, or a complex financial investigation, Combs Waterkotte is the top defense law firm trusted throughout St. Louis, Kansas City, and across Missouri to fight for your rights and protect your future.

Credit Card Fraud Lawyer in Missouri

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Credit card fraud generally refers to using someone else’s card or account information to make purchases or withdraw funds without authorization. Charges can arise from:

• Using a stolen or lost credit card
• Possessing 15 or more counterfeit cards (federal offense)
• Using scanning or skimming devices to steal data
• Trafficking in card cloning or fraud equipment

Federal law treats certain credit card crimes as "access device fraud" — a felony offense that includes possessing counterfeit cards, trafficking in devices, or obtaining over $1,000 in goods or services using a fake account. These offenses often fall under 18 U.S.C. § 1029.

• Decades of combined experience defending white-collar and fraud crimes
• Knowledge of both Missouri and federal statutes
• Tailored legal strategy to reduce or dismiss charges
• Clear communication, compassionate representation, aggressive defense

• Criminal Defense
• Drug Charges
• Gun Charges
• Juvenile Crimes
• Orders of Protection

Credit card fraud convictions can carry harsh penalties including prison time, fines, and a criminal record that follows you for life. Don’t wait to get the help you need.

Call (314) 900-HELP or request a free consultation today with a credit card fraud defense attorney in Missouri.

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