Best Criminal Lawyer in Missouri
Kimberly J. Benjamin
Criminal Lawyer
Kimberly Benjamin started her career as a lawyer because she loved helping people. At the time, she did not have a clue that the criminal justice system was not fair to everyone and that innocent people were actually arrested and in prison. She quickly learned the truth as a public defender in Kansas City, Missouri, where she came to be known as a zealous fighter for her clients in and out of the courtroom.
Kim is known among her peers as an expert DWI and criminal defense lawyer and a spectacular trial lawyer who obtains unbelievable results for her clients. She has a passion for her work that emanates from her when she is in her element. She even assisted a civil law firm in suing a large corporation on behalf of an employee who was unlawfully discriminated against, helping them obtain the largest verdict in an employment discrimination case in Cass County. Because she loves helping people who are facing Goliaths like the government and corporations, she will continue to help other law firms in obtaining great verdicts in a jury trial.
Her desire to help more and more people caused Kim to find some of the best trial lawyers in Kansas City who shared her passion for defending the accused. She founded the Missouri DWI & Criminal Law Center at the Benjamin Law Firm so she could build a team of lawyers and legal assistants who focus on being the best at criminal and DWI defense. With that goal in mind Kim decided that her law firm would be the only one in Kansas City where the lawyers are all trained in the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College (TLC) methods. Kim attended TLC as a young lawyer in 2000, and joined the faculty at TLC in 2008, where she regularly teaches other lawyers how to win trials.
Richard R. Lozano
Criminal Lawyer
Since 1994, I have handled a variety of serious crimes in both state and federal court including trial victories on first degree assault, drug, sodomy, DWI and other serious criminal cases. I limit my practice to serious criminal cases.
I have practiced locally in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Franklin County, Jefferson County and in surrounding county courts for 20 years. I take a great deal of satisfaction in fixing my clients’ problems and achieving excellent results. In my personal time, I coach recreational soccer and spend time with my wife and kids.
Your legal matter is most likely the most pressing issue facing you today. I will help you get answers. B.S. Universityof Missouri 1990
- J.D. University of Kansas 1993
- Admitted in Missouri
- Practice limited to criminal defense
- Member, Eastern District Federal Court of Missouri
- Member, Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals
- Member, Court of Federal Claims, Washington, D.C.
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
John Schleiffarth
Criminal Lawyer
John Schleiffarth is a third generation native of the Saint Louis area. He grew up in Des Peres and graduated from Kirkwood High School. John is an active member of his church and enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters and his son.
- Federal Bar Association
- National Trial Lawyers Association
- Member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member of the Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member of the National College for DUI Defense
- Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL)
- Missouri Bar, Criminal Law Committee
Awards
- Super Lawyers-Rising Star-Crimianl Defense/DWI-2015
- Awarded 2014 and 2015 “10 Best” DWI Attorneys in Missouri for Client Satisfaction by American Institute of DUI Attorneys
- 2012, 2013, 2014 Clients Choice Award from Avvo.com
- 2013, 2014, 205, 2016 Martindale-Hubbell Client Distinction Award
- “Top 40 Under 40” Award from the National Trial Lawyers Association 2015, 2016
- “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” Missouri, National Trial Lawyers Association 2014, 2015
Matthew Russell
Criminal Lawyer
Growing up in southwest Missouri, Matthew Russell witnessed first-hand that sometimes people just need a little help.
Accidents would happen, mistakes would be made, and lives would change.
He studied political science and government at Missouri State University before attending Creighton University School of Law in Omaha, Neb. While he was at Creighton, Matthew won several awards for trial advocacy.
After graduating from law school, Matthew returned to southwest Missouri. He began working at the Greene County Prosecutor’s Office in Springfield. Working in the major crimes division he tried many felony cases.
Over his decade there, Matthew prosecuted every kind of crime under Missouri law. He saw in the people he was standing against in court the people he knew growing up, his family and neighbors. They were in desperate need of help. Matthew decided the best way he could provide that help was by becoming a criminal defense attorney.
And so, he established MRD Lawyers. Matthew gathered a group of former prosecutors with a combined 30 years of experience. The firm committed itself to ensuring the legal system works for their clients.
As a defense attorney Matthew says he is not only protecting his clients’ legal rights, but also their lives.
“I genuinely want to make things better for my clients,” he said.
Matthew serves on the board of the Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and is active in the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association.
He is also the Mayor of the City of Republic, MO, working diligently to not only improve the town, but the region as a whole, by representing the best interest of his constituents.
John Kail
Criminal Lawyer
John Kail is the owner and managing partner of The Law Office of John D.Kail, LLC. Through over 21 years of practical legal experience in the courtroom, his reputation is well known for the depth and breadth of experience and knowledge representing thousands of clients over the course of his career.
John has extensive experience in addressing the numerous complex issues related to criminal defense and DWI litigation, felony and misdemeanor cases, traffic law and driver licensing.
John is a seventh-generation Missourian whose family has resided in southwest Missouri for over 150 years, and he is proud to call this area home. He is a 1998 graduate of University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law and a 1995 graduate with honors from Missouri State University.
Tyson Martin
Criminal Lawyer
Tyson Martin spent 10 years as a prosecutor before he became a Springfield criminal defense attorney. With this valuable experience, he knows how prosecutors think. This translates to a better understanding of what to expect and allows him to better assist his clients. He is fully aware of how to look at a prosecutor’s case and how to defeat their position.
Furthermore, with 20 total years of experience, he has perfected his approach to be based on intensive research and preparation. He believes in being honest and straightforward with clients, keeping them fully informed about each development in their cases. He knows that you are trusting him to help you through one of the most difficult times of your life. This often means answering all questions, providing options, and taking risks on behalf of his clients. He frequently handles all types of criminal and traffic violation cases, working in all federal, state, and municipal courts.
Education
- Kickapoo High School
- Drury University 1992-1996 BA in Psychology and Criminology, minor in Biology
- University of Missouri School of Law 1996-1999
Branden Twibell
Criminal Lawyer
Mr. Branden Twibell joined his father, Bert Twibell, in private practice in 2013, after spending over four years as a criminal defense trial attorney, where he achieved an exceptional trial record.
Mr. Twibell’s trial record includes four consecutive jury trial ‘not guilty’ verdicts within a 12-month period, with two of those trials occurring within consecutive weeks. Those ‘wins’ involved charges as diverse as drug possession, kidnapping, and sexual assault.
Mr. Twibell has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America as the ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for 2023- Criminal Defense: White Collar in Springfield, Missouri; as well as being recognized by Best Lawyers in America for Criminal Defense: General Practice in 2023 and Criminal Defense: White Collar in 2022.
Daniel A. Juengel
Criminal Lawyer
Dan Juengel is a criminal trial lawyer with over 20 years of experience. He has defended death penalty cases and tried numerous murder cases and serious sex offenses. He has represented clients throughout the State of Missouri and in Federal District Court in Missouri, Illinois, Alabama, and South Carolina. He has argued cases before the Supreme Court of Missouri, the Eastern District of Missouri Court of Appeals, and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and has submitted briefs in the Fourth Circuit, the Seventh Circuit, the Eleventh Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court. He is a member of the Federal Criminal Justice Act Lead Panel, a contract attorney for the Missouri State Public Defender.
Areas of Practice
- Criminal Law
- Sex Offenses
- Child Porn
- Drug Violations
- Murder
- Violent Crimes
- White Collar
- Federal Crimes
Bar Admissions
- Missouri, 1992
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Missouri, 1993
- U.S. District Court Southern District of Illinois, 2003
- U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals 7th Circuit, 2007
- U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 1998
- U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Circuit, 2004
- U.S. Supreme Court, 2005
Show Me the “Show Me State” Justice: Why You Need a Top-Tier Criminal Lawyer in Missouri
Facing criminal accusations in the heart of America can feel like navigating the mighty Mississippi River – powerful, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous. The Missouri legal system, while aiming for fairness, can be intricate and unforgiving. Here’s why securing a top-notch criminal lawyer in Missouri is crucial for protecting your freedom and achieving the best possible outcome:
1. Unmatched Expertise in Missouri’s Legal Landscape:
Missouri has its own distinct set of criminal codes, statutes, and court decisions. A top-tier criminal lawyer licensed in Missouri possesses an in-depth understanding of these nuances:
- Decoding Legal Complexities: They can meticulously analyze your case within the framework of the Missouri Revised Statutes (MO RS) and interpret key court rulings that may influence the prosecution’s strategy and your potential defenses.
- Staying Current on Legal Developments: The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Your lawyer actively monitors changes in Missouri criminal law, ensuring your defense strategy reflects the most up-to-date legal principles and leverages any recent rulings that could benefit your case.
2. Championing Your Rights Under Missouri Law:
Your fundamental rights are paramount:
- Protecting Your Constitutional Rights: The best criminal attorneys in Missouri are dedicated to safeguarding your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. They ensure that law enforcement and prosecutors adhere to proper procedures, such as respecting your right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. They will challenge any violations of your rights and work to exclude any unlawfully obtained evidence from being used against you. (MO.gov)
3. Building a Powerful, Personalized Defense Strategy:
A skilled criminal lawyer in Missouri takes a proactive approach:
- Meticulous Case Evaluation: They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your case, meticulously analyzing evidence, witness statements, and police reports. This deep dive allows them to identify strengths and weaknesses, crafting a defense strategy specifically designed to maximize your chances of success.
4. Negotiating for the Best Outcome:
Sometimes, negotiation can lead to a favorable resolution:
- Expert Negotiation Skills: A competent criminal attorney possesses excellent negotiation skills and can work with prosecutors to secure a favorable plea agreement on your behalf. They will advocate for you, aiming to reduce charges or penalties, and explore alternatives such as diversion programs or probation. This negotiation skill can help minimize the potential consequences of your case.
5. Powerful Advocacy in the Courtroom, When Needed:
If your case goes to trial, having a seasoned lawyer by your side is critical:
- Trial-Ready Attorneys: The best criminal lawyers in Missouri have extensive courtroom experience, including knowledge of trial strategies, effective presentation skills, and the ability to cross-examine witnesses effectively. They will fight vigorously to defend your rights and interests in the courtroom.
6. Support and Guidance During a Difficult Time:
The legal process can be emotionally draining:
- Understanding and Empathy: The best criminal lawyers in Missouri not only provide legal representation but also offer emotional support and reassurance throughout the process. They understand the impact of the situation on your life and can help alleviate some of the stress by guiding you through the legal complexities and providing reassurance.