Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Olathe, KS

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Olathe Police Department is 913-782-0720.

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

  You get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case in Olathe by submitting a request by mail or in person at the Olathe Police Department Records Division, 501 E Highway 56, Olathe, KS 66061.

• How long do DUI convictions and traffic violations in Olathe stay on record?

  In Olathe, a DUI conviction stays on record for a lifetime. On the other hand, minor driving violations such as speeding will remain on file for three years, and major driving offenses like driving on a suspended license will be intact for five years. Having a DUI sentence can undeniably impact a person's life.

• What happens to offenders in Olathe who are eligible for alternative sentencing?

  If found eligible for alternative sentencing, an offender in Olathe and other areas in Johnson County will likely face conditional probation. During this period, the person will be monitored by a probation officer. Orders may include the following:

  • Staying away from particular individuals and places
  • Abstaining from alcohol and drugs
  • Completing a treatment program
  • Maintaining an employed or student status
  • Attending AA/NA meetings
  • Complying with house arrest

• Which defense options are available for people accused of domestic violence in Olathe?

  Depending on the unique circumstance of a domestic violence case in Olathe, a criminal defense attorney can help defendants build different kinds of arguments. Possible defense strategies include forming an alibi and implying that the person may have hurt the plaintiff accidentally, has been falsely accused, or acted in self-defense.

• Can former U.S. Armed Forces members who have been dishonorably discharged own or use a gun in Olathe?

  No, they cannot. Dishonorably discharged U.S. Armed Forces members are barred from owning or using guns in Olathe, along with fugitives, individuals under indictment or convicted of crimes punishable by imprisonment of more than one year, mental defectives, controlled substance addicts, people with restraining orders, and those sentenced for misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. The restriction also covers illegal aliens and individuals who have renounced their U.S. citizenship.

• What are some of the most commonly expunged crimes in Olathe?

  Some of the most commonly expunged crimes in Olathe and throughout Kansas are drug possession, drunk driving, traffic infractions, vehicular homicide, and assault and battery. Under Kansas law, most criminal offenses can be expunged or erased from criminal records, except for serious violent or sexual crimes. After an expungement, a person's record history will only be accessible to law enforcement officers, judges, and other court officials.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.