Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Overland Park, KS

FAQs

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

  Call 913-895-6300 to report non-emergency incidents to the local police station in Overland Park.

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

  Get a copy of the police report for incidents in Overland Park from where one filed the report, either at the Municipal Court at 12400 Foster or at the police department at 8500 Antioch. Call the Records Division at (913) 327-6881 for further assistance.

• What should a person do if they decide to represent themselves in court in Overland Park?

  When a person decides to represent themselves in court in Overland Park, they should dress appropriately, arrive early, and speak politely to the court clerk. Observing others in the courtroom and pleading not guilty during arraignment can be helpful. If individuals cannot afford a lawyer, they should ask the court to appoint one. They can also seek an extension from the judge if they need more time.

• How much time do convictions remain on a person's record in Overland Park?

  In Overland Park, the duration for which a conviction remains on a person's record depends on the severity of the offense. Minor driving violations like speeding will remain visible for three years, whereas major driving violations, such as driving with a suspended license, will persist for five years. Additionally, DUI convictions will be displayed on a person's record for their entire lifetime.

• What should someone do if an officer in Overland Park arrests them despite not believing their evidence?

  If someone in Overland Park is arrested by a police officer who doesn't believe their evidence, they should try to remain calm and cooperate with the officer. It's important to avoid arguing or resisting arrest as this could lead to further complications. They can also assert their rights to an attorney and remain silent until they have legal representation. Additionally, the individual should collect any evidence they have and present it during their trial, where a judge will evaluate it.

• What are the options for posting a bond for a charge in Overland Park?

  If a bond is set for a charge in Overland Park, the suspect can pay the full amount in cash or use a bondsman for a fee of 10-20%. If the suspect is in custody, they can ask the judge to lower the bond. The judge considers factors such as community connections, the likelihood of fleeing, danger to self or others, and past appearances in court.

• Is it required to have an attorney when bargaining a plea in Overland park?

  Having a lawyer is not a legal requirement when entering a plea in Overland Park, but it is highly advisable due to the importance of the rights being waived. The offer's fairness should also be considered by assessing the strength of the evidence, legal arguments, and similar cases in the area.

• 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.