Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Topeka

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Topeka, Kansas?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Topeka Police Department is 785-368-9551.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Topeka, Kansas?

  You can get a copy of police reports for incidents related to your case from the Records Room of the Topeka Police Department located at 320 S Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66603.

• What are common strategies used to settle a Topeka criminal case before trial?

  In Topeka, common strategies for pretrial dismissal or settling of a criminal case include questioning the validity of evidence gathered by the police and negotiating plea bargains. For the former, attorneys can dismiss evidence against you if it can be found that the evidence was gathered using methods contradicting your constitutional or statutory rights. For the latter, legal counsel can work with prosecutors to get you a mitigated sentence compared to the consequences of a conviction.

• What rights do you have when dealing with police officers in and around Topeka?

  Generally, you have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel when you are confronted by police officers in Topeka, even if those officers don't read you your rights. Legal counsel usually advises you to only answer basic questions law enforcement pose, such as what your name is and an explanation as to why you are in a public space. Beyond that, attorneys would advise you to retain legal counsel before answering further questioning, to avoid making statements that are detrimental to your case.

• In and around the Topeka area, do all previous DUI convictions elevate the severity level of new DUI charges?

  Topeka follows Kansas state law, stating as a general rule that the severity level of a DUI charge is categorized by how many previous DUI convictions the defendant has under state law or comparable city ordinances. An exception lies in when the city ordinance is found to be not comparable to state law, such as if the city declares that operating a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol is enough for a DUI charge.

• What rights do you lose if you are convicted of a felony in Topeka?

  Topeka citizens convicted of felonies temporarily lose some civil rights, such as the right to vote, run for office, and serve on a jury. These rights are generally regained after a certain period or after you reregister after serving your sentence and paying any related fines. You can also permanently lose your right to own firearms if you carried a firearm when you were found committing a crime.

• What kind of evidence is important for a criminal case in Topeka?

  In Topeka, criminal cases are generally decided by relevant evidence pointing towards the guilt of the defendant beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is not relevant or sufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, such as testimony that doesn't support the charge against the defendant, then the courts may rule in the defendant's favor.