Kansas City Criminal Defense Lawyers

Experienced Defense Against Criminal Charges in Clay County

If you have been arrested or believe you are about to be in Kansas City, you need an honest and competent criminal defense attorney, and one fast. The fear and anxiety of being charged with or under investigation for a crime can be overwhelming. No one should have to endure it alone.

Instead of talking to the police, call Wood Ikram Law Firm. Kansas City criminal defense attorneys Randell K. Wood and J. Lindsey Ikram have over four decades of combined experience standing up for the rights of clients arrested throughout Missouri and Kansas.

Call Wood Ikram Law Firm today at (816) 597-5966 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our criminal defense attorney in Kansas City!

Why Hire Us?

Wood Ikram Law Firm can help you fight felony and misdemeanor charges in Missouri and Kansas. From minor trespassing offenses to serious drug crimes, we will not back down from standing up for you and fighting for your rights.

We will negotiate with the prosecution, devise defensive strategies that work in your favor, and handle all trial proceedings—whatever it takes to get the best results we possibly can. Our criminal defense lawyers in Kansas City are willing to represent those accused of all kinds of criminal charges in an effort to get those charges reduced or dropped.

Our legal team can help you fight both:

• Misdemeanors - including trespassing, simple assault, drug possession, and more.
• Felonies - such as kidnapping, rape, murder, burglary, and more.

Wood Ikram Law Firm was founded by dedicated trial attorneys who have represented defendants in numerous cases in municipal, state, and federal courts. We believe everyone deserves the right to a fair trial regardless of their alleged crimes, income, race, and other factors. Our firm is built on the idea that everyone is entitled not just to legal representation, but representation that is comprehensive, fair, honest, and worthwhile. Whether you have been charged with a minor offense or serious felony, our dedication to you remains steadfast.

Criminal Process in Missouri

In Missouri, the criminal process begins when a person is arrested or formally charged. Upon arrest, the accused will be taken to jail, where bail may be set. If bail is posted and the accused is released from custody, they must comply with all conditions of release, such as appearing for court dates.

After an individual is formally charged with a crime, they will appear in court for their arraignment. During this hearing, the accused will enter either a plea of guilty or not guilty. Depending on the plea entered by the defendant, there are several possible outcomes: dismissal of charges if a not-guilty plea was entered, entering into negotiations to plead guilty to lesser charges, or proceeding to trial if both parties cannot reach an agreement.

In the event of a not-guilty plea, the next step in the process is discovery. During this phase, both parties exchange evidence and information about the case. This includes witness testimony or other evidence collected by law enforcement agents. If sufficient evidence exists for a trial, jury selection and opening statements will be conducted. The prosecution and defense will present their respective cases, after which closing arguments are made before the jury deliberates on a verdict. Once a verdict has been reached, sentencing depends on the trial's outcome. In Missouri, criminal sentences can range from probation to lengthy prison terms.

The criminal process in Missouri serves as an important safeguard against wrongful convictions while also providing defendants with due process and the right to a fair trial. It is critical for anyone who has been charged with a crime to understand their rights throughout every stage of the criminal process. An experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyer can provide guidance and representation throughout the proceedings to ensure that defendants are treated fairly by the justice system.

What Is A Defense Attorney?

A defense attorney, also known as a criminal defense attorney or lawyer, is a legal professional who provides legal representation and advocacy for individuals or entities facing criminal charges or legal actions. The primary role of a defense attorney is to protect the rights and interests of their clients throughout the legal process.

Here are some key aspects of what a defense attorney does:

• Legal Consultation: Defense attorneys offer legal advice and guidance to their clients, explaining the charges, potential consequences, and the legal process. They help clients make informed decisions about their case.
• Case Assessment: They conduct a thorough analysis of the case, reviewing evidence, witness statements, and relevant legal documents to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case.
• Defense Strategy: Based on their assessment, defense attorneys develop a strategic defense plan. This may involve challenging evidence, questioning the legality of arrests or searches, identifying witnesses, and determining the best course of action, such as negotiating a plea deal or going to trial.
• Legal Research: Defense attorneys engage in extensive legal research to identify relevant statutes, case law, and legal precedents that can support their defense strategy. This research helps them construct persuasive arguments in court.
• Court Representation: They represent their clients during court proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, arraignments, and trials. They present legal arguments, cross-examine witnesses, make motions, and ensure that their clients' rights are protected.
• Negotiation with Prosecution: Defense attorneys often negotiate with the prosecution to explore the possibility of resolving the case through a plea bargain. They may negotiate for reduced charges or lighter sentencing in exchange for a guilty plea.
• Witness Preparation: If there are witnesses who can testify on behalf of the accused, a criminal defense attorneys works to prepare them for court appearances, ensuring they provide accurate and credible testimony.
• Evidence Gathering: In some cases, defense attorneys may hire investigators or experts to to support their client’s case or challenge the prosecution's evidence.
• Sentencing Advocacy: If their client is found guilty or pleads guilty, your attorney will advocate for a fair and reasonable sentence. They may present mitigating factors, such as the defendant's remorse or rehabilitation efforts, to influence the sentencing decision.
• Protecting Client Rights: Throughout the legal process, defense attorneys ensure that their clients' constitutional rights are always protected. They work to prevent any violations of these rights.

In summary, a defense attorney serves as an advocate, legal strategist, and protector of their clients' rights within the criminal justice system. Their primary goal is to ensure that their clients receive a fair legal process and to achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether that involves acquittal, reduced charges, or a fair sentencing decision.

Do All Criminal Cases Make it To Trial?

Not all criminal cases make it to trial. Our goal is to settle the matter of your criminal arrest or investigation as quickly and effectively as possible by building a strong defense and presenting it to the prosecution. However, our team always prepares for court just in criminal cases. We are aggressive, trial-tested litigators who have successfully represented countless clients in trials throughout Kanas and Missouri.

If you’ve already been to court and were convicted, you still possess the right to appeal the decision and fight to win back your freedom. If your first appearance in court didn’t go how you hoped and you are looking to hire a new lawyer, our team is ready and prepared to help you succeed the second time. We will extensively research your initial charges, first trial, and the results to develop new and innovative ways to argue on your behalf in the courtroom. If we believe you have another chance, we are happy to appeal the decision on your behalf to give you a shot at the results you want.

Contact Our Kansas City Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

Don’t wait to get legal help or advice, even if you have been charged with a crime you don’t believe isn’t a big deal. The police can legally use anything you say and do during your arrest and time in custody against you to increase your punishment. Also, one small change can easily lead to another—until you face larger sentences for being a repeat offender. Let us help you avoid the many potential pitfalls of criminal defense by advising you throughout your case.

Contact Wood Ikram Law Firm today to schedule a FREE consultation with our criminal defense lawyer in Kansas City!