Being served with an ex parte order of protection in Missouri can be overwhelming and confusing. Whether the order stems from allegations of domestic violence, harassment, or stalking, it’s critical to understand what it means and how to respond.

A failure to act appropriately could result in serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.

If you’ve been served with an Ex Parte order in Kansas City, here’s what you need to know and how one of our experienced criminal defense lawyers at KC Defense Counsel can help protect your rights.

WHAT IS AN EX PARTE ORDER OF PROTECTION?

An ex parte order is a temporary protective order issued by the court without your prior knowledge or presence. In Missouri, courts can grant these orders if the petitioner (the person requesting protection) provides sufficient evidence that they are in immediate danger of harm.

Since the order is issued without your input, you won’t have a chance to defend yourself initially. However, a full court hearing will be scheduled within 15 days to determine whether the order should be extended into a full order of protection, which can last up to one year (and may be renewed).

CONSULT A KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER

An ex parte order is a civil matter, but violating it can lead to criminal charges. If the court issues a full order of protection, it could impact:

Your ability to own firearms
Child custody and visitation rights
Your employment and background checks

An experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney can:

Review the evidence and build a strong defense
Represent you in court and fight to get the order dismissed
Negotiate child custody or visitation modifications
Protect you from criminal charges if allegations escalate

READ THE EX PARTE ORDER CAREFULLY

As soon as you receive the order, read it thoroughly. It will outline specific restrictions, which may include:

No contact with the petitioner (directly or indirectly)
Staying away from the petitioner’s home, workplace, or school
Temporary child custody or visitation restrictions
Prohibition from possessing firearms

Violating any of these conditions, even accidentally, can result in criminal charges and potential jail time.

DO NOT CONTACT THE PETITIONER

This one is important and crucial. While it’s natural to want to clear up misunderstandings, do not contact the petitioner under any circumstances. Even a simple text message or a message through a third party could be considered a violation, leading to further legal trouble.

If the order restricts you from going to certain places (such as your home or your child’s school), comply fully, even if it’s inconvenient. You will have the opportunity to present your side of the story in court.

GATHER EVIDENCE AND WITNESSES

To prepare for your hearing, start collecting evidence that supports your case.

This may include:

Text messages, emails, or call logs that show communication history
Social media posts from the petitioner that contradict their claims
Witness statements from people who can testify on your behalf
Security camera footage or other evidence disproving allegations

If the allegations are false, your Kansas City defense attorney will use this evidence to challenge the petitioner’s claims and argue against extending the protective order.

ATTEND THE COURT HEARING

A court hearing will be scheduled within 15 days to determine whether the ex parte order should become a full order of protection. You must attend this hearing—failure to appear may result in the judge granting a long-term order against you by default.

At the hearing, both you and the petitioner will have the chance to present evidence and testimony. Having a skilled defense attorney by your side is crucial to ensure your rights are protected and to challenge any false accusations.

COMPLY WITH THE COURT’S DECISION

If the judge denies the full order of protection, the case will be dismissed, and the restrictions will be lifted. However, if the judge grants the full order, you must comply with all conditions until it expires or is modified.

If you believe the order was wrongfully granted, your attorney can help you explore options for appeal or modification.

CONTACT A KANSAS CITY EX PARTE ATTORNEY TODAY

If you’ve been served with an ex parte order in Kansas City, don’t face it alone. A false or exaggerated accusation can have serious legal and personal consequences. At KC Defense Counsel, our affordable Kansas City criminal defense attorneys will fight to protect your rights, challenge wrongful allegations, and help you navigate the legal process.

Call today for a free consultation and get the legal representation you need.