Kansas City Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer
Missouri classifies misdemeanors below felonies; a conviction still creates a criminal record that follows you into job interviews, background checks, and custody hearings. If you are facing a misdemeanor charge, you do not have to figure out your next steps alone.
At Sandage Law LLC, our attorneys work with people throughout Kansas City facing misdemeanor charges, and we want you to understand what you are up against so you can make informed decisions about your case. Call us at (816) 753-0800 or contact us online to get a free consultation with our Kansas City misdemeanor defense lawyer team, who can walk you through your charges, your rights, and the path forward.
Why Kansas City Clients Choose Sandage Law LLC
Our attorneys bring over 60 years of combined legal experience to every case, and we believe the foundation of good defense work starts with a personal connection. Here is what that looks like in practice:
- Free initial consultation
- Responsive, direct communication throughout your case
- Defense strategies built around the facts of your case
- Knowledge of Kansas City courts, including Jackson County Circuit Court and Johnson County District Court, and the prosecutors who handle misdemeanor cases there
- Track record of favorable outcomes in misdemeanor cases
What Crimes Are Charged as Misdemeanors in Kansas City?
Missouri law covers a wide range of offenses that fall under the misdemeanor category. Some of these charges carry real consequences, including jail time, even though they are not classified as felonies:
- DWI/DUI (first offense)
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Petty theft and shoplifting
- Simple assault
- Trespassing
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor in possession of alcohol
- Harassment
- Vandalism and property damage
- Public intoxication
Keep in mind that prosecutors in Jackson County and surrounding jurisdictions sometimes file misdemeanor charges as a starting point while continuing to investigate. If additional evidence surfaces, a misdemeanor can be upgraded to a felony.
What Are the Classifications of Misdemeanors in Missouri?
Missouri divides misdemeanors into four classes, with Class A carrying the most serious penalties and Class D carrying the least. Each class has specific maximum jail sentences and fines set by state statute, and judges have discretion within those ranges when deciding your sentence.
Class A Misdemeanor
A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor charge in Missouri. A conviction can result in up to one year in the county jail and a fine of up to $2,000, which is why charges like fourth-degree assault, harassment, and low-level white-collar crimes, such as petty embezzlement, fall into this category.
Class B Misdemeanor
A Class B misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Common charges at this level include first-offense DWI and public intoxication.
Class C Misdemeanor
A Class C misdemeanor can result in up to 15 days in jail and a fine of up to $750. Offenses at this level include disorderly conduct and possession of a small amount of marijuana. However, local ordinances may treat some of these charges differently.
Class D Misdemeanor
A Class D misdemeanor is the lowest-level criminal offense in Missouri. It carries a fine of up to $500 with no authorized jail time. Charges like minor in possession of alcohol and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia often fall into this class.
Increased Penalties
Missouri law imposes harsher penalties on repeat offenders, even at the misdemeanor level. Under RSMo § 558.016, a person classified as a “persistent misdemeanor offender” may face an increased term of imprisonment beyond the standard range for their current charge.
Some misdemeanor offenses can also be elevated to felony charges depending on the facts of the case. Prior convictions for related crimes, such as repeated theft or DWI offenses, can also bump a charge from misdemeanor to felony territory.
Potential Defense Strategies
The best defense depends on the charges, the evidence, and the details of the arrest. After examining every aspect of your case, our Kansas City misdemeanor defense lawyers develop strategies, such as:
- Challenging the legality of a traffic stop or search
- Questioning the accuracy or handling of evidence
- Presenting an alibi or witness testimony
- Negotiating reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Seeking dismissal based on procedural errors
- Pursuing diversion or deferred prosecution programs
Under RSMo § 556.036, the state must commence prosecution for a misdemeanor within one year of the alleged offense. If that deadline passes without charges being filed, the case may be dismissed. Our attorneys review every detail of the timeline to determine whether the prosecution met its obligations.
FAQ: What to Know About Misdemeanors in Kansas City
What Happens if You Miss Your Court Date?
Missing a court date in a misdemeanor case can result in a bench warrant for your arrest, issued by the Jackson County Circuit Court, depending on where your case is pending. A failure to appear may also lead to additional charges and the forfeiture of any bond you posted.
Can You Get a Misdemeanor Expunged in Missouri?
Missouri law does allow expungement of certain misdemeanor convictions. However, eligibility depends on the specific offense, the time that has passed since the completion of your sentence, and whether you have other convictions on your record. Not all misdemeanors qualify, and the process requires filing a petition with the court.
Speak to Our Kansas City Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers Now
Waiting to address a misdemeanor charge only limits your options. Our attorneys at Sandage Law LLC have helped people across Kansas City protect their records, livelihoods, and futures, and we are ready to do the same for you.
Contact our firm at (816) 753-0800 or connect with us online to get a free consultation with our Kansas City misdemeanor defense lawyer team, who can explain your charges, outline your defense options, and start working on your case right away.