Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kansas
The state of Kansas is one of the largest producers of wheat in the United States, which means it plays a pivotal role in keeping the country fed. However, the state is also known for its quality colleges and universities such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University, which are members of the Big 12 conference. While there may be plenty to see and do while within the state’s borders, breaking the law may result in spending time in a local holding facility or working community service hours at a local soup kitchen.
Don’t Hesitate to Hire an Attorney
One of the first things that you should do after being charged with a crime is to hire an attorney. A Kansas criminal defense attorney may be able to help gather evidence in your case, speak to the media on your behalf, or take other steps to represent your interests. Legal counsel may be present during an interrogation, during court hearings, or during other important events that occur as your case unfolds. Having an advocate by your side may be especially beneficial because authorities generally have more respect for those who know their rights or who have someone on their team who can make sure that those rights are protected.
Put our highly experienced team on your side
Brian J. Kuester
Former U.S. Attorney
Former DA
Amanda Marshall
Former U.S. Attorney
Local Counsel
Joe Brown
Former U.S. Attorney
& Former District Attorney
Local Counsel
John W. Sellers
Former Senior Trial Attorney
U.S. Department of Justice
Local Counsel
Linda Julin McNamara
Former Chief, DOJ Appeals
Local Counsel
Joanne Fine DeLena
Former Assistant U.S. Attorney
Local Counsel
Aaron L. Wiley
Former Federal Prosecutor
Local Counsel
Roger Bach
Former Special Agent (OIG)
Chris Quick
Former Special Agent (FBI & IRS-CI)
Kevin M. Sheridan
Former Special Agent (FBI)
Ray Yuen
Former Supervisory Special Agent (FBI)
Dennis A. Wichern
Former Special Agent-in-Charge (DEA)
You Have the Right to Remain Silent
The first thing a police officer might do during a traffic stop is ask if you have consumed alcohol or drugs. An officer might also ask if you have any drugs or alcohol on your person or if you would consent to a search of your vehicle. Ideally, you will refrain from answering any questions until you have a lawyer present as anything that you say can be used against you.
Although you must generally be read your rights upon being taken into custody, anything that you say before being taken into custody may be admitted into evidence. Furthermore, anything that you say of your own free will after your Miranda rights have been read to you may also be admitted into evidence.
Your right to remain silent continues throughout the legal process as you aren’t required to speak during court hearings or at trial. However, it is worth noting that anything you tell your attorney in private is generally considered to be confidential. This is to ensure that you can provide your advocate with the details needed to create a proper defense. Therefore, you should feel free to talk to this person without undermining your legal position.
Our Attorneys Used to Work for the Government
One of the primary benefits of hiring The Criminal Defense Firm is that most of our attorneys worked for federal agencies such as the IRS, DEA, and DOJ as federal prosecutors and investigators. This means that they know what the government is likely thinking when it takes action or declines to do so during your case.
This may make it easier to determine if you should try to negotiate a plea deal before trial, seek an acquittal or seek to have charges dropped prior to trial. An ability to analyze what the state might be doing may also enable your attorney to help set and manage expectations as your case progresses.
Although an attorney cannot guarantee what will happen in your proceeding, having an idea of what to expect may help you manage your emotions. Approaching a case from a calm and objective perspective may prevent you from saying or doing anything that might prevent you from earning an acquittal or a favorable plea deal. It may also prevent you from engaging in risky behaviors such as drinking or drug use that might make it difficult to care for yourself or your family while your case is pending.
The Types of Cases Our Firm Typically Handles
Our firm will handle just about any type of case whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony. We may also be able to help you if you’re facing both state and federal charges. This may occur if you commit crimes in multiple states or commit a crime against a federal agent. Let’s take a look at some of the more common types of cases our firm typically sees.
Financial Crimes
Financial crimes such as fraud, tax evasion, or insider trading may be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the amount of money involved. Tax evasion or fraud cases may involve both state and federal authorities as they typically involve entities that do business in multiple states.
Traffic Crimes
Speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield are all generally treated as infractions. However, if you cause property damage or a bodily injury while operating a motor vehicle, you’ll likely be charged with reckless driving. If you operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you might be charged with DUI.
Violent Crimes
Violent acts such as murder, aggravated assault, or armed robbery will likely be prosecuted as felonies. This is because these crimes generally result in significant bodily injury or death.
Other Types of Crimes
If you harm someone while they are working in their capacity as a police officer, firefighter or some other protected professions, you may be held legally responsible. In addition, you may be held civilly liable for your actions, which means that you’ll owe your victims money in a lawsuit in addition to the criminal penalties that you might face. These criminal penalties might include jail or prison time, a fine, and the loss of any professional licenses you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the potential consequences of a criminal record?
The impact of a conviction may be felt long after you have been released from jail or prison. In fact, you may face a number of challenges even if you don’t have to spend time in custody after being convicted of a crime. These challenges may include difficulty finding housing, difficulty getting access to student loans, or a harder time finding work. In some cases, you won’t be able to find housing simply because of a lack of funds after spending months or years in jail. However, there is also a chance that a landlord will refuse to rent to you because of your criminal history.
Can you get a criminal record expunged?
Kansas state law does allow for some elements of your criminal record to be expunged. This means that a landlord, employer, or other agency wouldn’t know that you were taken into custody, charged with a crime, or been convicted. Your Kansas criminal defense attorney may be able to explain more about the process of expungement or whether you are eligible for relief.
How long does attorney-client privilege last?
As a general rule, anything that you say to your attorney remains confidential for the rest of your life. In fact, it generally remains confidential for the rest of your attorney’s life. Therefore, you have little reason to worry that anyone will divulge any secret information that might harm your reputation, put you in danger, or put your family in danger of physical or legal harm. It’s worth noting that anything that you say during an initial consultation is typically covered by confidentiality rules as you’re talking to someone who may eventually be your lawyer.
How is my attorney chosen?
There are several factors that are used to determine who is assigned to your case. First, we’ll try to choose someone who is located as close as possible to wherever the case is being heard. This will help to ensure that you will be able to meet with your attorney on a regular basis. Next, we’ll try to choose someone who has a background dealing with cases similar to yours. Finally, we will look to pair you with someone who we feel has a personality that will mesh well with yours.
Should I testify at my trial?
Typically, it’s not in your best interest to testify at your own trial. However, if you would like to speak in your own defense, your attorney will do whatever it takes to make that happen. In some cases, your attorney may encourage you to speak if it might help humanize you in the eyes of the jurors. Of course, you are allowed to testify whether or not your attorney agrees with your decision.
Contact The Criminal Defense Firm Today for Vigorous Legal Representation in Kansas
If you are looking for a Kansas criminal defense attorney, don’t hesitate to call our national intake number at 866-603-4540. You can also use our contact form to reach out.