Criminal Defense Lawyer in Independence, Missouri | KC
Defense Counsel

 

KC Defense Counsel provides criminal defense representation in Independence, Missouri,
serving clients charged with DUI/DWI, misdemeanors, assault, domestic violence, and warrant
matters. Our attorneys Jordan Watson, Justin Hunt, and R. Christopher Simons have defended
hundreds of cases in Jackson County courts, including municipal court and Jackson County
Circuit Court. We offer free consultations and have achieved dismissals, acquittals, and reduced
charges for local residents.

Call 816-287-3787 for immediate legal help.

Our Services:

Why Choose KC Defense Counsel 

Local Court Experience
Our attorneys have defended over 200 cases in Independence Municipal Court and Jackson
County Circuit Court. We regularly appear before local judges and work with Jackson County
prosecutors on cases originating from Independence Police Department arrests, Missouri State
Highway Patrol stops on I-70 and I-470, and Jackson County Sheriff investigations.

Awards & Recognition

? Super Lawyers Rising Stars
? National Trial Lawyers Top 100
? Three Best Rated DWI Lawyers Kansas City

Criminal Defense Services in Independence, Missouri

DUI/DWI Defense in Independence

Arrested for DUI in Independence on I-70, Noland Road, or 39th Street? Cases are prosecuted in
Jackson County Circuit Court, where penalties include license suspension, jail time, and
permanent criminal records.

Common scenarios include stops near the Noland Road exit, traffic
enforcement on Truman Road, and DUI checkpoints along the I-70 corridor by police.
We challenge breathalyzer accuracy, field sobriety test procedures, and illegal traffic stops. Our
attorneys appear regularly in Jackson County Circuit Court and have achieved dismissals and
reductions for clients throughout the area.
Learn more about DUI defense ?

Misdemeanor Defense in Independence

Facing charges for assault, theft, disorderly conduct, or minor in possession? Misdemeanor
convictions create permanent criminal records affecting employment, housing, and professional
licenses. Cases are heard in municipal court or transferred to Jackson County Circuit Court
depending on severity.
Many cases can be resolved through diversion programs, negotiated dismissals, or reduced
charges. We work to keep your record clean.
Read our guide to misdemeanor defense ?

Assault Defense in Independence

Assault charges range from fourth-degree misdemeanors to more serious classifications. These
cases often involve disputes near Independence Square, neighborhood altercations, or
school-related incidents. Even misdemeanor assault convictions carry serious consequences
including jail time and criminal records.

We investigate thoroughly, challenge witness credibility, and present self-defense claims when
facts support your version of events. Our attorneys have successfully defended numerous
assault cases in Jackson County.
See assault defense strategies ?

Domestic Violence Defense in Independence

Domestic violence arrests trigger mandatory arrest policies by local police. If arrested, you’ll face
protective orders, loss of firearm rights, and potential jail time. Bond conditions typically include
no-contact orders. These cases require immediate legal representation.
We challenge evidence, negotiate for counseling-based resolutions, and seek dismissals when
appropriate. Many cases can be resolved through completion of programs.
Learn about domestic violence defense ?

Warrant Defense in Independence

Outstanding warrants in municipal court or Jackson County Circuit Court don’t expire. They result
in arrest during any police contact including routine traffic stops. Common warrants include
failure to appear for traffic violations or missed court dates.
We verify warrants, arrange voluntary surrender to avoid jail, negotiate with prosecutors, and
work toward dismissal of underlying charges. Contact us at 816-287-3787 to resolve your
warrant discreetly.
Read how we resolve warrants ?

Court Information

Jackson County Circuit Court
Address: 308 W. Kansas Avenue, Independence, MO 64050 (Independence Courthouse)
Additional Location: 415 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, MO 64106 (Downtown Kansas City
Courthouse)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Handles: All DWI prosecutions, serious misdemeanors, appeals from municipal courts
Independence Municipal Court
Address: 223 N. Memorial Drive, Independence, MO 64050
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Handles: City ordinance violations, some misdemeanors within city limits
Important: Even if arrested by local police, DWI charges are filed in Jackson County Circuit
Court. We handle cases in both jurisdictions.

Independence Police Department: (816) 325-7300
Jackson County Sheriff: (816) 881-3000
Jackson County Prosecutor: (816) 881-3509

What Happens After Arrest

If arrested by Independence Police Department, you’ll be transported to the police station (223 N.
Memorial Drive) for booking or directly to Jackson County Detention Center in Kansas City.
Booking includes fingerprinting, photographing, and background checks. Most first-time
misdemeanor and DUI defendants are released on bond within 8-24 hours.
For DUI arrests, you have 15 days to request an administrative hearing to challenge license
suspension. Contact an attorney immediately to preserve this right and begin building your
defense.

Meet Our Defense Attorneys

Jordan R. Watson – Super Lawyers Rising Star

Defended thousands of criminal cases including DUI/DWI at all levels. Licensed in Missouri.
Recognized by Super Lawyers Rising Stars and National Trial Lawyers Top 100.

Justin Hunt

University of Kansas (B.A. Political Science, 2011), Santa Clara University School of Law.
Hundreds of successful criminal defense cases with aggressive courtroom advocacy.

R. Christopher Simons

Born in Kansas City, raised in Richmond & Kearney, Missouri. Graduated Suma Cum Laude from
William Jewell College. Extensive trial experience in Jackson County courts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens after arrest by local police for DUI on I-70?
A: You’ll be taken to Independence Police Department for booking or Jackson County Detention
Center. For misdemeanors and first-time DUI, you may be released on bond within 8-24 hours.
Contact an attorney before making statements to police.
Q: Can you appear in court for me?
A: Often yes. For most municipal court cases, we appear on your behalf. Some Jackson County
Circuit Court cases may require your presence, but we minimize court appearances.
Q: How do I check if I have a warrant in this jurisdiction?
A: Contact Jackson County Sheriff’s Office or check Missouri State Highway Patrol website. We
can also verify warrants for you and help resolve them before arrest. Call 816-287-3787.
Q: What should I bring to a consultation?
A: Bring all documentation related to your case: citation or arrest paperwork, bond documents,
court notices, police reports (if you have them), photos or videos, witness contact information,
your driver’s license, and list of questions. The consultation is free.
Q: Can charges be dismissed in Jackson County?
A: Possibly. Common dismissal grounds include insufficient evidence, illegal search/seizure, and
prosecutor’s discretion. We’ve obtained hundreds of dismissals throughout the county.
Q: Should I talk to police without a lawyer?
A: No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely provide your license, registration, and
insurance, but decline to answer questions about where you’ve been or whether you’ve been
drinking. Request an attorney immediately.
Q: How long do cases take in this jurisdiction?
A: Municipal court cases typically resolve in 30-45 days. Jackson County Circuit Court cases
take 60-90 days for misdemeanors. Timeline depends on complexity, evidence, and court
scheduling.

Contact KC Defense Counsel in Independence

Call: 816-287-3787
We Serve: Independence, Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, Raytown, Grandview, and
all of Jackson County

Criminal charges can affect your future, employment, and driving privileges. The sooner you
consult with an attorney, the more options may be available.

Free consultation. Confidential. No obligation.

KC Defense Counsel serves Independence and all of Jackson County, Missouri. Licensed
Missouri criminal defense attorneys. Results may vary based on individual circumstances. This
website is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.