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Criminal Defense Attorney Kansas City

Honored as top 30 criminal law firm of 355 firms in KCMO

Criminal Defense Attorneys in Kansas City, MO

The laws are there to keep us and others safe, but sometimes, mistakes happen. If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense in Kansas City or the surrounding area, our attorneys are here to help you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected. The bottom line is that the criminal justice system is stacked against defendants, and if you’re the one facing charges, it’s critical to present the best and strongest defense possible.

Call the Benjamin Law Firm, LLC, to speak to one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. We offer a No-Obligation Consultation with a member of our team to discuss the benefits of working with our firm and how we can help you.

HOW MAY WE HELP YOU?

Drug Crimes

You can face serious charges if you are found in possession of a controlled substance or suspected of manufacturing or distributing illegal drugs. Call our office to get help with drug crime charges.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes include serious felony charges, such as murder, assault, and robbery. Ensure you have aggressive representation to help you fight these charges.

DWI Defense

Driving while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances is against the law and can result in criminal penalties and losing your driving privileges. Get help from an experienced attorney.

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes carry a major stigma and severe penalties if you’re convicted. Our attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights and represent you in court.

Expungements

Your past mistakes shouldn’t hold you back from your future. An attorney can help you get a conviction expunged from your record.

Theft Crimes

Theft crimes can range from stealing to identity theft. Find out how our attorneys can help you navigate this process and avoid severe penalties.

Traffic Tickets & Points

Accumulating too many points on your license can mean you lose your ability to drive. Our attorneys can help you fight traffic tickets to avoid more points and keep your license.

Drug Crimes

You can face serious charges if you are found in possession of a controlled substance or suspected of manufacturing or distributing illegal drugs. Call our office to get help with drug crime charges.

DWI Defense

Expungements

Your past mistakes shouldn’t hold you back from your future. An attorney can help you get a conviction expunged from your record.

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes carry a major stigma and severe penalties if you’re convicted. Our attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights and represent you in court.

Theft Crimes

Theft crimes can range from stealing to identity theft. Find out how our attorneys can help you navigate this process and avoid severe penalties.

The Benjamin Law Firm, LLC Legal Team

At Benjamin Law Firm, LLC, we have a team of attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to ensure that each of our cases gets the attention it deserves. Our attorneys have extensive experience in criminal defense law, and both our firm and our lawyers have won local and national awards. Our lawyers receive additional training through the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College to ensure they have as much knowledge and experience as possible to successfully handle your case.

CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES

Megan Oliver is absolutely amazing! She knows exactly what it takes to get the job done and make sure clients are taken care of. She and her assistant, Aaron, are a great team. 10/10 would recommend!

– Monica F.

Laura O’Sullivan and Jessie Greathouse have gone above and beyond. They have both been extremely patient with me and answered every question I have had from day one. They have exceeded my expectations. Laura is extremely knowledgeable and will find the right path to choose every time.

– Ryan S.

So reassuring and helpful with everything I have gone through. Took time to talk with me and answer questions, gave amazing advice on next steps and how to go forward. Just an all around great experience. Absolute best there is!

– Sarah M.

This law firm is represented by seasoned and energetic attorneys who have established a solid reputation in the community for achieving the results their clients deserve. Without any hesitation, I would recommmmend the Benjamin Law Firm for your legal needs.

– Robert F.

VIEW ALL REVIEWS

When You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer

It’s important for your legal team to have direct experience with the charges you’re facing. Each criminal case requires an in-depth knowledge of the law, including what has to be proven for a conviction and what elements the defense strategy can capitalize on. Below are some of the types of criminal cases we’ve successfully defended:

Drug crimes
DWI
Expungements
Sex crimes
Theft and property crimes
Traffic tickets and points
Violent crimes
White collar crimes

Our attorneys don’t shy away from difficult or high-profile cases. We believe that every defendant should get the best possible representation, and our team is here to make that happen.

CASE RESULTS

CASS COUNTY, 2023

Won Refusal Case

Driver’s license saved after we found evidence client’s rights denied

Jackson COUNTY, 2023

DWI Dismissed

Won dismissal because low BrAC amount and client not impaired

CLAY COUNTY, 2023

DWI Dismissed

DWI dismissed for a CDL driver because of an improper arrest.

Jackson COUNTY, 2023

DWI Reduced

All charges amended and no points, no loss of license, no plea to DWI.

VIEW ALL CASE RESULTS

MEET OUR TEAM

KIM BENJAMIN

FOUNDING ATTORNEY & CEO

Amber Ledbetter

Operations Manager

Megan Oliver

Associate Attorney

Jennifer Reagan

Senior Associate Attorney

Dorothy Hodgson

Intake Specialist

Diana Paredes

Intake Specialist

William Vance

Law Clerk

Dave Brumback

Client Services Specialist

Aaron Craig

Case Manager

Brooke Daugherty

Law Clerk

Luis Bula

Intake Specialist

Jessie Greathouse

Senior Case Manager

About Us

Do I Really Need an Attorney?

The bottom line: Yes. It doesn’t matter whether you’re already facing charges or currently under investigation and being asked to submit to police questioning or what type of charge it is. If you’ve been accused of a crime in the Kansas City metro area, you need a defense attorney right away. Even if you know you’re innocent and don’t believe that there could be evidence to the contrary, it’s critical to hire a criminal attorney who can represent you, speak on your behalf in court, and hold the investigators and prosecutors accountable to ensure they follow the law.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Recognized Top Law Firm

Benjamin Law Firm, LLC has been recognized as one of Kansas City’s top law firms. We made the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 list, and attorney Kim Benjamin was awarded the Client’s Choice Award by Avvo.

Empathetic and Patient Representation

We know how difficult it is to be facing criminal charges. It’s confusing and stressful, and it impacts almost every area of your life. Our attorneys take an empathetic and understanding approach to guiding clients through this process, and we explain every step so you know what’s happening and what to expect.

Experienced Legal Team

Our legal team has extensive experience in criminal law, and we’re just as comfortable taking on a high-profile sex crimes case as we are representing a client who has been arrested for DWI. Our attorneys have superior negotiation skills when it comes to working out plea bargains, but we’re also not afraid to argue your case in court.

Comprehensive Legal Knowledge

When you’re facing criminal charges, you need an attorney who has the legal knowledge and expertise to help you get the best possible outcome. Our attorneys are familiar with both state and federal laws and use this knowledge for your defense.

Willing to Fight for You

Many attorneys are focused on the quickest, easiest resolution, even if it’s not what’s in the best interests of their clients. But at Benjamin Law Firm, LLC, we focus on your rights and do everything in our power to protect your freedom and help you move on with your life.

Strong Results in the Courtroom

Our track record and results speak for themselves. We’ve helped countless clients throughout Kansas City and the surrounding area with complex, high-profile criminal defense cases, and our testimonials show our dedication and skills when it comes to defending our clients.

Recognized Top Law Firm

Empathetic and Patient Representation

Experienced Legal Team

Comprehensive Legal Knowledge

Willing to Fight for You

Strong Results in the Courtroom

What to Look for in a Kansas City Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you’re facing serious criminal charges, any attorney out of the Yellow Pages won’t do. It’s important to ensure that the lawyer you hire has a strong track record of success and is knowledgeable about your charges. If you’re looking for a criminal defense and trial attorney in Kansas City, consider asking these questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge you need:

How many cases similar to mine have you handled?
What do you think is the best possible outcome and the most likely outcome for my case?
What are the common issues defendants of these charges face?
What are the different defense options, and which one would you recommend for my situation?

LATEST ARTICLES & INSIGHTS

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Understanding Your Rights in Sex Crime Investigations

March 1, 2025

What is the Punishment for Sexual Assault? Facing a charge of sexual assault will carry…

How Do You Qualify for Expungement of a Criminal Record?

January 10, 2025

Is My Criminal Record Eligible for Expungement? Everyone makes mistakes, and we all learn from…

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Understanding Your Rights in Sex Crime Investigations

March 1, 2025

What is the Punishment for Sexual Assault? Facing a charge of sexual assault will carry…

Mar 01, 2025

Understanding Your Rights in Sex Crime Investigations

What is the Punishment for Sexual Assault? Facing a charge of sexual assault will carry severe sentences, especially when ass(...)

Jan 10, 2025

How Do You Qualify for Expungement of a Criminal Record?

Is My Criminal Record Eligible for Expungement? Everyone makes mistakes, and we all learn from them. However, when your mistake (...)

Dec 03, 2024

What Are Your Legal Options If Accused of Drug Possession?

Defense Options Against Drug Possession Charges If you are charged with drug crimes, including possession or drug trafficking, you can (...)

Nov 04, 2024

How Can You Defend Against False Allegations of Sex Crimes?

What Are Some Common Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges? Being charged with sex crimes can be highly stressful, and if (...)

VIEW ALL ARTICLES

Why You Should Work With Our Team of Criminal Defense Lawyers

When your freedom is in jeopardy and you’re facing the possibility of multiple years behind bars, you want a lawyer who is ready, willing, and able to fight for you to the best of their ability. And that’s exactly what the team at Benjamin Law Firm, LLC does.

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Kansas City, MO, or the surrounding area, call 816-846-2219 to talk to a member of our team and learn how to get started with our firm.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Should Your First Steps Be After an Arrest?

After you’ve been arrested for a crime, your first step should be to contact a criminal defense attorney who has experience with your charges. Whether you’ve been arrested for DWI or are being charged with a serious violent crime, you need legal representation through every part of the process. Once you have notified the investigators that you wish to speak with an attorney, don’t answer any questions. If you make a phone call to a family member or friend, don’t discuss any details of the case or explain what happened to avoid having these statements used against you in court.

What Rights Do Defendants Have in Missouri?

Defendants who have been charged with crimes in Missouri have a variety of rights. Some of the most important include the right to remain silent so that you don’t incriminate yourself while answering questions, the right to have a defense attorney even if you can’t afford one, and the right to due process. Other rights that often come up in these cases include the right not to be subjected to illegal search and seizure and the right to a speedy trial before a jury of your peers.

Will I Be Charged With a Misdemeanor or a Felony?

Under Missouri law, criminal charges are either misdemeanors or felonies. Within those two categories are different classes, depending on the severity of the offense. Some crimes, such as murder, are always felonies, while others, such as DWI, can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. In this example, a first offense is a misdemeanor, but a third or subsequent offense is a felony. Your charges will depend on the type of offense, whether you have any previous similar criminal convictions, and whether there are any aggravating factors. In some cases, an attorney can help you get your charges reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor.

Is a Plea Bargain an Option?

Plea bargains are a way for the defendant to get a lesser charge or a lesser penalty and for the prosecution to secure a conviction and avoid the time and expense of a trial. They can be beneficial in some situations where the evidence is strong or the charges are very serious, such as with a Class A or Class B felony. Criminal defense attorneys are able to negotiate with the prosecution to work out a deal that is the most favorable outcome possible for their clients. However, a plea bargain is not an option — or the best option — in every case and is never guaranteed.

What Are My Defense Options?

No matter what criminal charges you face, you have the right to a strong defense. The strategies and options that are the best choice for your situation depend on your charges and the surrounding circumstances. A criminal defense attorney has the knowledge and skills to determine which option offers the highest likelihood of a favorable outcome, and they can explain to you the reasons behind their advice and the pros and cons of each choice. In general, you will have the option to plead guilty, plead not guilty and fight the charges during a criminal trial, or negotiate a plea deal.

Is It Possible to Have a Conviction Expunged?

Missouri law does allow for some convictions to be expunged, but there are specific parameters around which charges can be expunged and who is eligible. In general, you can only expunge one felony charge and two misdemeanors from your record. So, if you already had a felony charge expunged, you won’t be able to get rid of any others. Your charge must qualify for expungement — violent crimes and other serious charges may not be eligible — and you must have served your entire sentence, including paying fines and completing your probation or parole.

What Should I Do If I Was Falsely Accused?

Being accused of a crime when you’re innocent can be extremely distressing. Many people believe that if they are innocent and just tell the truth that the criminal justice system will serve its purpose and the charges will be dropped or they will be acquitted. However, there are thousands of innocent people serving time right now in jails and prisons across the country. Even if you’re innocent, it’s important to immediately hire a criminal defense attorney to represent you and ensure your rights are protected. Don’t talk to police or try to offer evidence or a statement to prove you’re innocent. Your attorney will handle all of these pieces and ensure that you have legal guidance and counsel every step of the way.