Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Lees Summit, MO

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Lees Summit, Missouri?

  Citizens can contact the Lee's Summit Police Department's non-emergency contact number 816-969-7390 for issues that do not require an immediate response.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Lees Summit, Missouri?

  Individuals who wish to obtain a copy of their incident report in Lee's Summit can contact the Records Unit at 816-969-1715 in order to verify that the report is available for retrieval.

• Can you challenge your sentence in Lee's Summit if you pleaded guilty?

  Yes, individuals who have been convicted of a crime by entering a guilty plea in Lee's Summit are given the opportunity to challenge the sentences imposed upon them. A well-informed legal expert may be able to provide persuasive evidence the defendant has been compelled to accept a guilty plea. Such evidence could prove beneficial in the quest to exonerate the accused.

• Is it possible for misunderstandings to result in sex crime allegations in Lee's Summit?

  Yes. In Lee's Summit, sex crime accusations can emerge from misunderstandings that involve a lack of intent. One such scenario is when a person is charged with indecent exposure because of public urination. Seeking legal counsel promptly when facing such allegations is crucial. Taking immediate action can help protect your legal rights, ensure a strong defense, and minimize potential negative consequences.

• Why is it important to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Lee's Summit early on in the legal process?

  An important advantage of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Lee's Summit at the outset is that your legal team can have ample time to strategize and build a robust defense. Early attorney engagement also enables gathering information from witnesses while their recollections are still vivid, enhancing the likelihood of a successful case outcome.

• What is the deadline for requesting a driver's license hearing in Lee's Summit after a chemical test failure?

  In Lee's Summit, if you fail a chemical test while driving under the influence, you have a limited time to request a driver's license hearing to contest the potential suspension of your driving privileges. Specifically, you have fifteen days from the date of the test failure to submit the request. It is crucial to note that you will lose your driving privileges if you fail to request a hearing within this time frame.

• How to keep the confidentiality of your criminal case in Lee's Summit?

  In Lee's Summit, it is possible to maintain the confidentiality of a criminal case by obtaining an expungement. This involves filing a petition in the county court where the charge was filed. It is advisable to seek the assistance of a lawyer when submitting the petition. If the request for expungement is rejected, there is the option to appeal the decision or resubmit the petition after one year.

• 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.