Kansas City Criminal Defense Attorney

Kansas City Criminal Defense Attorney

Reviewed by R. Christopher Simons, Kansas City traffic attorney. Last updated October 2026.

Charged with a crime in Kansas City? Speeding Ticket KC defends misdemeanor and criminal traffic charges in Kansas City Municipal Court and in Jackson, Clay, Platte and Cass County courts. We handle DWI, driving while suspended, drug possession, theft, leaving the scene, fleeing and eluding, and warrant cases, and we quote a flat fee upfront. Call (816) 398-8772 for a free consultation.

Criminal Charges We Defend in Kansas City

• DWI / DUI, including first offense, refusal and repeat offenses
• Driving while suspended or revoked and driving without a valid license
• Drug possession and paraphernalia charges
• Theft and shoplifting (stealing) misdemeanors
• Leaving the scene of an accident and hit and run
• Fleeing and eluding and resisting arrest
• Giving false information to a police officer
• Careless and imprudent driving and other criminal traffic offenses
• Warrants for missed court dates or unpaid tickets

Misdemeanor vs. Felony in Missouri

Missouri divides crimes into misdemeanors and felonies by class. The maximum penalties set by Missouri law are:

The actual outcome depends on the facts, your record and the court. Many first-time misdemeanor cases can be resolved without jail through negotiation, diversion or a suspended imposition of sentence (SIS).

What Happens After an Arrest in Kansas City?

1. Booking and bond: you may be released on a summons, a recognizance bond or a cash or surety bond.
2. Arraignment: your first court date, where the charge is read and you enter a plea. Your lawyer can often appear for you on a misdemeanor.
3. Discovery and negotiation: your lawyer reviews police reports, video and lab results, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
4. Resolution: dismissal, an amended charge, diversion or SIS, a plea agreement, or trial.

Why Choose Speeding Ticket KC

• Local experience: we appear regularly in Kansas City Municipal Court and the Jackson, Clay, Platte and Cass County circuit courts.
• Flat-fee pricing quoted upfront after a free consultation.
• Direct attorney access from your first call to the end of your case.
• Serious felony cases can be handled with our sister firm, KC Defense Counsel.

Kansas City Criminal Defense FAQs

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Missouri?

It is strongly recommended. A Missouri misdemeanor can carry jail time (up to one year for a Class A misdemeanor), fines, probation and a permanent criminal record that shows up on background checks. A defense attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate a reduced charge or diversion, and help you avoid a conviction where possible.

What is the difference between a municipal and a state charge in Kansas City?

Municipal charges are violations of a city ordinance and are heard in a municipal court such as Kansas City Municipal Court. State charges are brought under Missouri statutes and are heard in the circuit court of the county, such as Jackson, Clay or Platte County. The court, the prosecutor and the possible penalties differ, so the defense strategy differs too.

Can a criminal charge be reduced or dismissed in Missouri?

Often, yes. Depending on the facts, your record and the court, charges can be dismissed for problems with the stop, search or evidence, or reduced through negotiation with the prosecutor. Some courts also offer diversion or suspended imposition of sentence (SIS), which can keep a conviction off your record if you complete probation.

Can I get a criminal record expunged in Missouri?

Many Missouri misdemeanors and some felonies can be expunged after a waiting period if you meet the requirements, but some offenses, including many DWI and serious violent offenses, are not eligible. We review your record and tell you whether you qualify.

Is marijuana possession still a crime in Missouri?

Adults 21 and over can legally possess limited amounts of marijuana under Missouri’s 2022 constitutional amendment. Possession over the legal limit, possession by someone under 21, driving while impaired and possession of other controlled substances can still be charged.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Kansas City?

It depends on the charge and the court. We quote a flat fee upfront after a free consultation, so you know the cost before you hire us.

Talk to a Kansas City Criminal Defense Attorney

Call (816) 398-8772 or send us your ticket or case details for a free consultation.