Criminal Defense Attorney in Smithville, Missouri | KC Defense Counsel

KC Defense Counsel provides criminal defense representation in Smithville, Missouri, serving clients charged with DUI/DWI, misdemeanors, assault, domestic violence, and warrant matters. Our legal team—Jordan Watson, Justin Hunt, and R. Christopher Simons—has defended hundreds of cases in Clay County courts, including municipal court and Clay County Circuit Court in Liberty. 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 in Smithville

Local Court Experience

Our criminal defense lawyers have defended over 200 cases in Smithville Municipal Court and Clay County Circuit Court. We regularly appear before local judges and work with Clay County prosecutors on cases originating from Smithville Police Department arrests, Missouri State Highway Patrol stops on US-169 and Highway 92, and Clay 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 Smithville, Missouri

DUI/DWI Defense in Smithville

When you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror on US-169 or Highway 92, your stomach drops. Now you’re facing DUI charges in Clay County with all the consequences: suspended license, criminal record, possible jail time, and massive insurance increases. The small-town nature of this area doesn’t make cases easier—prosecutors are just as aggressive.

Our defense attorneys know how to fight DUI cases. We examine dashcam footage for stop justification. We review breathalyzer maintenance records for calibration errors. We cross-examine officers about field sobriety test administration. Many DUI cases have defense opportunities if you know where to look.

Learn more about DUI defense …

Misdemeanor Defense in Smithville

Minor charges create major consequences. A shoplifting conviction affects job applications for years. An assault charge—even fourth-degree—shows up on every background check. Disorderly conduct seems trivial until it costs you a professional license or housing approval. Municipal court handles initial appearances, but serious misdemeanors transfer to Clay County Circuit Court.

We work to keep your record clean. First-time offenders often qualify for programs that dismiss charges after completion. Weak evidence leads to negotiated reductions. Illegal searches get evidence suppressed and cases dismissed.

Read our guide to misdemeanor defense …

Assault Lawyer in Smithville

Assault charges destroy reputations fast in a small community like this. Whether the incident occurred at a local establishment, stemmed from a neighbor dispute, or involved family members, you need a defense lawyer who understands both the law and local court dynamics. Prosecutors push for jail time even on first offenses.

Our criminal lawyers investigate independently. We interview witnesses the police ignored. We obtain evidence that contradicts the alleged victim’s story. We prepare for trial while negotiating for dismissals. The right defense strategy depends on your specific situation.

See assault defense strategies …

Domestic Violence Lawyer in Smithville

Domestic violence allegations trigger immediate protective orders and bond conditions that upend your life. You can’t return home. You can’t contact family members. You’re facing criminal prosecution even if the alleged victim wants to drop charges. Law enforcement in this jurisdiction follows mandatory arrest policies strictly.

Our legal team defends these cases by challenging witness credibility and examining physical evidence. Many domestic violence cases lack corroborating evidence beyond conflicting statements. We cross-examine accusers, expose inconsistencies, and work toward dismissals or favorable resolutions.

Learn about domestic violence defense …

Warrant Defense Lawyer in Smithville

That traffic ticket you forgot about five years ago? It’s now an active warrant. Miss a court date? Another warrant. These don’t disappear—they remain active until addressed. In a community this size, warrants eventually lead to arrest during routine encounters with law enforcement.

We resolve warrants efficiently and discreetly. Call us at 816-287-3787 for verification, court scheduling, and resolution of underlying charges without public arrest or jail time.

Read how we resolve warrants …

Court Information

Clay County Circuit Court

Address: 11 S. Water Street, Liberty, MO 64068
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Handles: All DWI prosecutions, serious misdemeanors, appeals from municipal courts

Smithville Municipal Court

Address: 107 W. Main Street, Smithville, MO 64089
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 Clay County Circuit Court. We handle cases in both jurisdictions.

Smithville Police Department: (816) 532-0550
Clay County Sheriff: (816) 407-3700
Clay County Prosecutor: (816) 736-8300

What Happens After Arrest

If arrested by Smithville Police Department, you’ll be transported to the police station (107 W. Main Street) for booking or directly to Clay County Detention Center in Liberty. 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 a defense 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 Clay County courts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I’m arrested on US-169 or Highway 92?

A: You’ll be taken to Smithville Police Department for booking or Clay County Detention Center in Liberty. For misdemeanors and first-time DUI, you may be released on bond within 8-24 hours. Contact a criminal lawyer 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 Clay County Circuit Court cases may require your presence, but we minimize court appearances.

Q: What are my rights when pulled over?

A: You have the right to remain silent beyond providing license, registration, and insurance. You can refuse vehicle searches unless the officer has probable cause or a warrant. Comply with lawful orders but state clearly if you don’t consent to searches.

Q: How can I avoid a criminal record?

A: Options include dismissal of charges, deferred prosecution programs, or diversion programs where charges are dismissed after completing conditions. We work to keep your record clean whenever possible. The outcome depends on the charge, your history, and case facts.

Q: Can charges be dismissed in Clay 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: What should I do if I have an outstanding warrant?

A: Contact us immediately at 816-287-3787. We verify the warrant through the court system, arrange voluntary surrender if needed, and negotiate with prosecutors. We can often resolve warrants without jail time.

Q: How long do cases take in this jurisdiction?

A: Municipal court cases typically resolve in 30-45 days. Clay County Circuit Court cases take 60-90 days for misdemeanors. The timeline depends on complexity, evidence, and court scheduling.

Contact KC Defense Counsel in Smithville

Call: 816-287-3787

We Serve: Smithville, Liberty, Kansas City, Gladstone, and all of Clay County

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

Free consultation. Confidential. No obligation.

KC Defense Counsel serves Smithville and all of Clay 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.