Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Kansas City

FAQs

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

  816-234-5111 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Kansas City, Missouri.

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

  To obtain a police report in KCMO, you can contact 816-234-5100 to confirm availability and then visit any patrol division station in person with a valid photo ID. The report fees are listed under "Fees for Records." You should include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your request. The current turnaround time for processing requests is eight to 12 weeks.

• Why is it important to hire a criminal defense attorney in Kansas City?

  If you have been charged with a crime in Kansas City, it is important to retain the services of an attorney with relevant knowledge and experience in that particular area of the law. Providing an adequate defense to a client takes time, knowledge, research, and investigative work. An experienced attorney can develop a strong defense strategy to represent you in court and fight for the best possible outcome.

• Who can arrest a person for a criminal offense in Kansas City?

  In Kansas City, law enforcement officers, including police officers, sheriff's deputies, and state highway patrol officers, can arrest a person for a criminal offense. A probation or parole officer can report a probation or parole violation to the court, leading to an arrest warrant being issued. Traffic offenses, including DUI, driving while suspended or revoked, or a felony, can result in an arrest. Failure to sign a traffic ticket can also lead to an arrest, although signing the ticket is not an admission of guilt.

• What should you do if you are arrested in Kansas City?

  If you are arrested in Kansas City, do not make any statements to the police and let your criminal defense attorney handle the talking. Bail out of jail as soon as possible to have more time to meet with your attorney and prepare for plea negotiations. Contacting your criminal defense lawyer immediately is crucial for building a strong defense and having more options available. The sooner the process starts, the fresher the evidence will be, giving you and your attorney more options.

• What should a criminal defendant consider when deciding whether to accept a plea offer in Kansas City?

  A criminal defendant in Kansas City should consider their chances of getting charges dismissed, excluding key evidence, or winning at trial. They should also consider the collateral consequences associated with various convictions, such as registration, eligibility for certain programs in incarceration, eligibility for expungement, and other issues specific to the facts of the case and the individual's circumstances.

• What is the criminal defense process like in Kansas City?

  The criminal defense process in Kansas City typically involves representation during an investigation, court proceedings before trial, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. If necessary, a criminal defense attorney can represent you in an appeal. During the criminal defense process, an attorney may also investigate the case, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a defense strategy tailored to your specific case and circumstances.

• 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.