Kansas City Criminal Defense Lawyers

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If you are the subject of a criminal investigation or facing criminal charges, you need a criminal defense lawyer you can trust to thoroughly protect you and execute your defense with tenacity. Joseph, Hollander & Craft’s top-rated criminal defense lawyers have the litigation skills necessary to mount the most effective defense for clients in the Kansas City metro and beyond. Our Kansas City criminal defense attorneys will make your case both in the courtroom and out.

Our Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kansas City, MO Also Handle Federal Charges

When facing criminal charges, you need a trustworthy lawyer to conduct a thorough investigation and evaluate all possible defenses. Whether you need us to seek an acquittal, dismissal of charges, suppression of evidence, or reversal of a conviction or sentence, our lawyers consistently strive for positive outcomes.

Our team is recognized throughout Kansas City for our experience and success in handling even the most complex criminal defense cases. We provide representation at every stage of the criminal defense process in municipal, state, and federal court. If you’re facing federal charges in Missouri, you need a Kansas City federal criminal defense lawyer who understands the complexities of federal law and sentencing guidelines.

Because 90% of all cases in the United States are filed at the state level, most law firms focus on state law practice; not Joseph, Hollander & Craft. Our highly skilled criminal defense attorneys regularly handle cases in state and federal court. Our Kansas City office is conveniently located within walking distance of the Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Courthouse for the Western District of Missouri and the Jackson County Courthouse for the 16th Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri.

What Sets Us Apart as Dedicated Counselors and Advisors

The great majority of criminal cases are resolved by pleas. Lawyers who can negotiate a beneficial plea deal have a unique skill set that sets them apart. Our criminal defense lawyers in Kansas City combine courtroom advocacy with compassionate guidance and clear communication.

When a plea agreement is the best option, we negotiate for the most favorable terms. During sentencing, we don’t simply go through the motions; we present evidence, gather evaluations, and advocate for the court to understand the individual behind the conviction—which can often be the deciding factor between prison and probation.

With decades of experience in criminal courtrooms throughout the Kansas City metro area, our attorneys have successfully defended against a great variety of charges. We assist clients with:

• Government Investigations. Civil Investigative Demands (CIDs), administrative subpoenas, and other document requests are often precursors to criminal charges. Early intervention by a criminal defense counsel can sometimes be the difference between charges even being filed. Contact a lawyer at the first sign you may be the subject of a criminal investigation.
• Federal Criminal Defense. Federal criminal charges often carry significantly harsher sentences than state-level crimes. It is important to consult a defense attorney with experience defending against criminal charges in federal court.
• State Crimes. The majority of criminal offenses are violations of state law. They are investigated and prosecuted by local authorities. Representation by a local attorney familiar with the specific nuances of the jurisdiction will put you in a prime position to identify weaknesses in the state’s case and pursue a favorable outcome.
• Juvenile Crimes. Juvenile court procedures and practices differ considerably from those involved in adult prosecutions. Our juvenile law attorneys know how to protect your child’s interests in the juvenile justice system.
• Municipal Crimes. Each municipality has its idiosyncrasies. Partnering with local legal representation will put you in the most advantageous position to challenge the case, negotiate a plea or diversion, reduce fines, or possibly dismiss charges.
• Drug Crimes. Drug possession and trafficking charges require strategic representation to evaluate available challenges to search and seizure methods, challenge evidence of possession or the extent of involvement with others, and advise you regarding offers for reduced charges.
• DUI Charges. DUI charges can have many consequences beyond the criminal case—including license suspension. Capable counsel can challenge procedural errors, inaccuracies in blood alcohol testing, and improper investigative techniques resulting in charges.
  • Boating DUI
  • Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
• Sex Crimes. We help protect your reputation and freedom when you are facing sex crime charges ranging from sexual assault, rape, and revenge porn to possession of CSAM (child sexual abuse material, often referred to as child pornography).
• White-Collar Crimes. Defending charges for nonviolent crimes like embezzlement, bribery, and healthcare fraud requires industry-specific knowledge and acute attention to detail. A good defense strategy can help mitigate the financial and reputational damages that accompany the charges.
• Property Crimes. Vandalism, arson, burglary, and other property crimes often require restitution and time in custody if convicted. Our Kansas City, Missouri, attorneys can help you present your best defense.
• Violent Crimes, including Domestic Violence Defense. Defending charges for violent crime requires strategic investigative and defense work to demonstrate that you acted in self-defense or that you have been misidentified by your accuser.
• Appeals. If you’ve been convicted, an appeal can challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or identify erroneous legal rulings. You may be entitled to a new trial or an outright dismissal.
• Car Searches. Illegal searches and seizures can be challenged before trial and result in wrongfully seized evidence being excluded from the jury’s consideration. In some cases, a successful challenge to an illegal search or seizure will result in the exclusion of all evidence necessary to prove the charges—requiring the prosecution to dismiss the case.
• Expungements. Laws regarding expungement eligibility vary by state and municipality, and procedures to secure an expungement can be complicated. We can guide you through the expungement process.

Joseph, Hollander & Craft’s Kansas City criminal defense lawyers represent individuals accused of crimes in Wyandotte County, Kansas; Jackson County, Missouri; the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri; and surrounding jurisdictions. If you have been charged with a crime in the K.C. Metro area, we have you covered.

Our Team Consists of Top-Rated Kansas City Criminal Defense Lawyers

At Joseph, Hollander & Craft, our commitment to excellence is at the core of everything we do. Our criminal defense attorneys have earned a strong reputation for providing outstanding legal representation, as evidenced by peer-reviewed ratings in prestigious directories such as the Martindale-Hubbell® Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers, Best Lawyers®, and Thomson Reuters’ Super Lawyers®.

Our esteemed criminal attorneys in Kansas City are known for their involvement in high-profile cases. Yet, we firmly believe that every legal matter, regardless of size or prominence, deserves the same attention and dedication. We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to each client, ensuring that we thoroughly understand the unique aspects of their situation and advocate vigorously on their behalf.

If you are facing a criminal legal issue—a misdemeanor, felony, or related matter—don’t hesitate to seek our assistance. Our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and future.

FAQ About Kansas City Criminal Defense

Should I Hire a Kansas City Criminal Defense Attorney if I Plan to Plead Guilty?

Yes. Whether you intend to enter a guilty plea or not, your best option for a reasonably good outcome is to have an attorney guide you through the legal process. First, a criminal defense lawyer can identify potential gaps in the prosecution’s case and assess whether the prosecution can prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. An attorney can evaluate whether your constitutional rights were violated, which could lead to specific evidence being excluded from the trial. Your attorney can also determine if you are eligible for diversion programs and, if so, help put you in the best position to receive a diversion instead of a conviction.

Even if a plea is the best option, it doesn’t mean you have to plead guilty to the original charges. A skilled defense attorney can negotiate the dismissal of some charges or arrange for a plea to a lesser charge.

Sentencing laws can be complex and confusing. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you understand the penalties associated with a guilty plea and may be able to reduce the severity of your punishment. Even if you do not wish to take your case to trial, the criminal defense lawyers at Joseph, Hollander & Craft can assist you in making the best decision for your case and your circumstances.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney if I’m Not Facing Time?

Regardless of the immediate consequences you may face from your charges, a criminal conviction can have lifelong implications. A conviction on your record can hinder your career aspirations by affecting your eligibility to obtain a degree or professional license in your desired field. Additionally, a prior conviction can lead to harsher penalties in future prosecutions under most sentencing guidelines.

Even if you believe that a conviction won’t lead to incarceration, it is crucial to consult with a criminal defense lawyer to explore your options. Joseph, Hollander & Craft lawyers are well respected and come highly recommended. Some client accolades include:

• “…professional, responsive to our requests, and most importantly, imminently qualified to handle my son’s case. He was always available to answer the many questions we had and always kept us advised of where we were in the legal process. Mr. Joseph was able to negotiate an exceptionally favorable outcome, for which our family is extremely grateful. Would highly recommend his law firm and specifically Christopher Joseph.” – John Sink
• “I can’t say anything but wonderful things about these people.” – Kallie Lawson
• “…professional and open in his communication, and was able to get my case dismissed. He was thoughtful and considerate to the delicacy of my feelings and explained everything to me so I could understand fully. I would highly recommend him to anyone and appreciate everything he did for me in a short amount of time.”- Jessica White

Can My Criminal Charges Be Dismissed?

If insufficient evidence supports criminal charges, they can be dismissed. A prosecutor may choose to drop the charges if, after reviewing the case, they are not convinced that your guilt can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Additionally, a judge may dismiss the charges if, after hearing the prosecution’s arguments, the judge determines there is no probable cause to believe you committed a crime.

Pretrial dismissals often occur due to thorough legal research conducted by an experienced defense team and can happen when the prosecution is unaware of legal precedents that weaken their case. The criminal defense attorneys at Joseph, Hollander & Craft will carefully evaluate your case for potential dismissal and advocate for this option when appropriate.

How Long Will My Case Take?

The duration of a criminal case can vary based on several factors—including the severity of the charges, the nature of the investigation, how the prosecution chooses to proceed, and how you choose to defend the case. Misdemeanor cases prosecuted in municipal court generally involve the least amount of investigation. They can often be resolved within weeks to months even if you proceed to trial.

State and federal cases can be resolved in a matter of months with quick diversion agreements or plea negotiations as long as sentencing arguments do not require extensive evaluations, treatment, or cooperation in another active case. However, if you defend criminal charges with motions (to dismiss charges or to suppress evidence, for example), the time required to brief the legal issues and present evidence and arguments at hearings may extend your case for several months.

A case that involves ongoing investigative efforts may last even longer. It is not unusual for a case that goes to trial to last for a year or more.

How Can I Reach You if I Have a Question?

If you are looking for experienced legal representation in Kansas City, our team is here to help. Our firm is conveniently located downtown at 926 Cherry St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Our Kansas City office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. We offer flexible appointment scheduling to accommodate your needs. Whether you require assistance with federal criminal defense, DUI charges, or any other criminal matter, our attorneys are available to discuss your case and provide guidance on your legal options.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

If I Hire You, Do I Have to Pay Anything Up Front?

As a new client, you must pay an initial deposit or retainer fee to secure our legal services so we can begin work on your case. We accept cash, check, debit card, e-check, electronic funds transfer, and pre-paid card, all without surcharge. Please be aware that credit card payments will incur a surcharge of 3.95%.

If you have any questions about the payment process, please contact our billing team.

Do You Have a Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me?

Joseph, Hollander & Craft is located right off the corner of 10th Street & Cherry Street in Kansas City, MO, just blocks from the municipal courthouse and the Jackson County Courthouse. We maintain additional offices in Overland Park, Lawrence, Topeka, and Wichita for your convenience.