Criminal Defense Attorney in Lee's Summit, Raymore, Independence & Blue Springs, MO

Criminal Defense

Providing Strong Defense Against Criminal Charges

In federal and other serious criminal cases, your choice of a criminal defense lawyer is extremely important. Even if you didn’t actually do anything, if you participated in planning a crime you can be charged with conspiracy. The potential prison sentence is significant.


If a police informant fingered you as a co-conspirator, you may be part of a multiple-count, multiple-defendant case. Attorneys at Kelly & Jansen, LLC, have handled several hundred cases of this type.


We are prepared to fight for your interests in any criminal case. Give us a call to discuss your specific situation in a confidential consultation.

What Criminal Defense Services Does Kelly & Jansen LLC Offer?

  • DUI Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lee's Summit, Raymore & Independence, MO


A DUI arrest in Missouri, where the offense is legally called DWI, starts two separate cases: a criminal charge in court and a license suspension through the Missouri Department of Revenue. Drivers have only 15 days from the arrest notice to request a hearing to fight the suspension. As your DUI criminal defense lawyer examines the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breath or blood results to protect both your record and your license.


  • Criminal Lawyer for Gun Violations and Weapon Charges in Missouri


Missouri allows permitless carry, but carrying in prohibited places, displaying a weapon in a threatening way, or possessing a firearm after a felony conviction can still lead to felony charges. Kelly & Jansen LLC is a criminal lawyer for gun violations in Missouri, defending clients against unlawful use of a weapon charges under RSMo 571.030. Our firm also serves as a criminal lawyer for weapon charges in Missouri's federal courts, including cases under 18 U.S.C. § 922.


  • Criminal Defense for Sex Crimes in Missouri


A sex offense conviction in Missouri can require registration on the sex offender registry for 15 years, 25 years, or life, depending on the offense tier. Kelly & Jansen LLC provides criminal defense for sex crimes in Missouri with strict confidentiality, a careful review of all evidence, and direct challenges to unreliable testimony or forensic findings.

What Types Of Charges Are You Facing?

Our lawyers provide aggressive and effective defense against all types of charges, including:


Types Of Criminal Cases Heard in District Court 

Federal criminal cases in this region are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri in Kansas City. Common criminal case types in district court include federal firearm offenses, drug trafficking, fraud, and internet-based sex offenses. State charges are heard in Missouri circuit courts instead. These include the Jackson County courthouse in Independence and the Cass County courthouse in Harrisonville, which serves Raymore.

How To File a Criminal Case?

Private citizens cannot file criminal charges in Missouri. Only a county prosecuting attorney, or a U.S. Attorney in federal cases, can file them. A victim starts the process by reporting the crime to local police, who investigate and send the case to the prosecutor. If you are under investigation, contacting a defense attorney before charges are filed gives you the strongest possible position.

Why Choose Kelly & Jansen LLC?

When you search for the best criminal defense attorney near you in Lee's Summit, Raymore, Independence, or Blue Springs, MO, choose a firm that knows the local courts. Kelly & Jansen LLC brings more than 50 years of criminal defense experience in Jackson County and Cass County courts. Clients get direct access to their attorney, honest answers at every stage, and a defense built around the specific facts of their case.

Kansas Bar Association Badge – Kelly & Jansen LLC Criminal Defense Attorneys in Lee's Summit, MO
The Missouri Bar Seal- Kelly & Jansen LLC Criminal Defense Attorneys in Lee's Summit, MO

We Have The Experience And Skill

Attorney David A. Kelly is a former prosecutor and served as a law clerk to a federal judge. Attorneys unfamiliar with federal cases are not competent to get you off, or minimize the time you may serve. Our attorneys are prepared to defend you.


The prosecution has the burden of proof in court, and they must prove that you intended to take part in the crime. A major defense is to refute allegations of intent.


We seek to aggressively minimize the exposure of our clients to prison sentences. We believe that early and aggressive intervention can be effective. The stakes are huge; lots of prison time is possible. Take action now.

Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving The Kansas City Metro

We are here to help you resolve your legal problems. Call 816-347-1818 or complete the online form to arrange a free initial consultation with our office. Our attorneys and paralegals stand ready to discuss your case. We offer evening appointments as needed.

CONTACT US

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What areas do the criminal defense attorneys at Kelly & Jansen LLC serve in Missouri?

    Kelly & Jansen LLC provides expert criminal defense representation throughout Lee's Summit, MO, as well as the surrounding communities of Independence, Blue Springs, and Raymore, MO. Their office is conveniently located at 114 SW 3rd St, Lee's Summit, MO 64063.

  • How do I find the best criminal defense attorney near me in Lee's Summit, MO?

    To find the best criminal defense attorney near you in Lee's Summit, MO, look for a lawyer with extensive trial experience, localized court familiarity, and a proven track record. Kelly & Jansen LLC brings over 50 years of combined legal experience representing clients across Lee's Summit and neighboring Missouri cities.

  • What should I do if I am facing a DUI or DWI charge in Lee's Summit, MO?

    If you are facing a DUI/DWI charge in Lee's Summit, MO, you should immediately consult a specialized DUI defense lawyer. Kelly & Jansen LLC provides expert guidance through Missouri’s complex DWI laws, challenging traffic stops, breathalyzer accuracy, and field sobriety tests to protect your driver's license and freedom. 

  • What are the penalties for a criminal weapon charge or gun violation in Missouri?

    Penalties for a criminal weapon charge or gun violation in Missouri depend on the specific offense, ranging from class E felonies to class D felonies carrying years of imprisonment and significant fines. A skilled criminal lawyer from Kelly & Jansen LLC can help challenge unlawful searches or firearm possession claims.

  • How does a criminal defense lawyer handle sex crime allegations in Missouri?

    A criminal defense lawyer handles sex crime allegations in Missouri by conducting a rigorous, confidential investigation, scrutinizing forensic evidence, challenging accuser credibility, and navigating complex sex offender registration laws. Kelly & Jansen LLC provides discreet, powerful defense for individuals facing sensitive sex crime charges.

  • What types of criminal cases are handled in Missouri district and municipal courts?

    Missouri district and municipal courts handle a wide range of criminal case types, including misdemeanor traffic violations, DWIs, domestic assault, theft, drug offenses, weapon charges, and serious felony criminal matters. 

  • How is a criminal case officially filed in the Missouri court system?

    A criminal case is officially filed in Missouri when a prosecuting attorney or grand jury files a formal complaint, information, or indictment detailing the alleged criminal charges against a defendant following a law enforcement investigation or arrest. 

  • Does Kelly & Jansen LLC offer a free case evaluation for criminal defense clients?

    Yes, Kelly & Jansen LLC offers a free case evaluation for individuals seeking a criminal defense attorney in Lee's Summit, Independence, Blue Springs, and Raymore, MO. You can contact their office directly at 816-347-1818 to discuss your legal options. 

  • Why should I hire local criminal defense lawyers who serve Independence, Blue Springs, and Raymore?

    Hiring local criminal defense lawyers who regularly practice in Independence, Blue Springs, Raymore, and Lee's Summit ensures your legal counsel is deeply familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom customs. Kelly & Jansen LLC provides dedicated local representation throughout Jackson County and surrounding regions.

  • Can the attorneys at Kelly & Jansen LLC help me with legal issues beyond criminal defense?

    Yes, Kelly & Jansen LLC is a full-service law firm equipped to handle multiple legal issues over your lifetime, including personal injury claims, DWI/DUI defense, divorce, family law, and ex parte orders, serving clients throughout the Kansas City metro area.