Kansas City Criminal Defense Attorneys

Criminal law (as opposed to civil law) is the resolution of allegations of wrongdoing by individuals or entities. Such actions are considered an offense against “the people” – society in general. Accused wrongdoers are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

For an accused individual, criminal defense must ensure that the accused’s rights are not violated, and that the prosecution is forced to meet the full burden of proof demanded by the Constitution, otherwise charges must be dropped or dismissed.

Misdemeanors are less serious infractions on the law; felonies more serious criminal acts. However, regardless of the classification of the charges, if possible punishments could include incarceration (prison time), the accused is legally entitled to a jury trial. In such a trial, the jury of “peers” weighs and ultimately decides the facts of the case; a judge determines which laws apply to the case. In some cases the accused may decide to have a judge decide all aspects of a trial – this is a bench trial. Whatever the type of trial, if a guilty verdict is decided, a judge, following sentencing guidelines, will determine the proper punishment. A “capitol” cases is one in which the death penalty may be assigned.

All criminal charges carry the right to representation by competent legal counsel. Hiring a good attorney is the single most important thing an accused individual can do to defend him/herself.