Best Civil Lawyer in Kansas
Christopher M. Joseph
Civil Lawyer
Christopher (Chris) Joseph represents individuals and businesses during the investigation and prosecution of criminal charges in federal and state courts and in complex civil litigation. Chris leads the firm’s criminal defense, asset forfeiture, and judicial discipline practice groups. As JHC’s Managing Member, Chris embodies the firm’s motto: ready for anything.
Following his 2000-2002 clerkship for the Honorable John W. Lungstrum, Chris began his career in private practice with a leg up on most federal practitioners his age. Decades later, he has helped countless clients defend criminal charges and pursue justice in federal courtrooms in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City. He knows the players, he knows the game, and he translates that knowledge into results for his clients.
Wm. Dirk Vandever
Civil Lawyer
Dirk Vandever served as the youngest president of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association before going on to become president of the Kansas City Bar Foundation and the American Board of Trial Advocacy (KS/MO). He regularly lectures on trial practice at national, state and local levels. Dirk graduated with honors from the University of Missouri – Columbia (BS) and UMKC (JD). His proudest achievements have been his own two children and being able to help his clients who need it.
We are a collective of civil rights and personal injury lawyers with different legal practice specialties and experiences. We often represent people whose rights have been violated by systems bigger than they are—usually a corporation or government institution.
Erica Ramstad Whitsell
Civil Lawyer
Erica Ramstad Whitsell, a Wichita criminal defense attorney at the McConnell Law Firm, specializes in criminal defense, including Driving Under the Influence (DUI), false sexual accusations, and traffic law.
With a Bachelor of Arts in English from South Dakota State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of South Dakota School of Law, Erica was initially drawn to the legal industry to help others in times of need and give back to the community. While in law school, she published two articles in the South Dakota Law Review, both addressing criminal law issues.
Prior to joining the McConnell Law Firm, Erica gained experience in criminal defense while working at the Minnehaha County Public Advocate’s Office and the Sedgwick County Public Defender’s Office. She now enjoys working with our team to help clients achieve positive outcomes on their cases, and she uses her experience to approach cases creatively and effectively. Erica is licensed in both South Dakota and Kansas.
Christopher Pickering
Civil Lawyer
Chris is a knowledgeable strategist, negotiator and litigator, with over 25 years of experience. He has practiced in premiere law firms and in a boutique litigation firm. He focuses on Business Law and Corporate Disputes, from partnership disagreements to large-scale corporate shareholder representation. He has a history of implementing thoughtful strategies to help protect his client’s assets and interests.
Chris has represented individuals and companies in litigation and disputes over non-competition agreements. He has also assisted in drafting these agreements, and in advising individuals faced with signing such agreements in reaching a reasonable accommodation while balancing company and individuals needs.
Donald T. Taylor
Civil Lawyer
A lifelong resident of Kansas City and a second-generation attorney, Don marveled at his father’s role in the legal profession. Further intrigued by the historic Hyatt Regency Skywalk Collapse in 1981 he studied the catastrophe, as well as the attorneys who represented those injured in the collapse, and the surviving family members of those that were killed. In law school, Don clerked for a premier personal injury firm and knew he would also follow the same path of helping others in their greatest time of need. In 1987 he joined a small firm dedicated to representing people in such need. By 1991 he became a partner.
Don brings a broad range of knowledge within the legal field representing clients in both personal injury and wrongful death claims in Kansas and Missouri. He also represents clients in Workers Compensation claims who have been injured or killed within the scope and course of their employment in Kansas and Missouri.
With over 33 years of experience representing thousands of clients before state and federal courts, Don brings a unique blend of experience to help you through your time of need.
RW Mozingo, II
Civil Lawyer
Founding attorney RW Mozingo, II has the experience to guide you through any criminal law or family court hurdle you may face in Johnson County, Kansas or in the Kansas City metro area. RW is licensed in the states of Kansas, Missouri, and Minnesota and is available to serve your criminal law and family court needs in the Kansas City Metro area as well as throughout those states. RW has the litigation experience to handle complex criminal law and vigorously fight for your rights. Further, RW is willing to take your case to a trial and even beyond if necessary. RW is a battle-tested trial attorney whose criminal law and family court skills have been proven in the highest courts in the State. He has argued cases before the Kansas Court of Appeals and the Kansas Supreme Court.
RW decided to start his own firm to have a better opportunity to directly help others dealing with criminal law and family court legal problems in Johnson County, Kansas; as well as the Kansas City Metro area. He has the knowledge and compassion to guide you through what can be a very complicated criminal law and family court system. RW understands that the need for criminal law and family court legal representation often occurs during crucial situations and has experience providing support during these stressful times.
Sylvia B. Penner
Civil Lawyer
Sylvia Penner is a lifelong resident of Kansas. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology in 1999 from Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas, where she was a member of the varsity basketball and soccer teams and served on the college’s Student Senate. Ms. Penner received her Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas in 2004. While at KU, she served as a Student Ambassador and worked as a law clerk to the District Court for the Third Judicial District in Shawnee County.
After law school, Ms. Penner worked for four years as an Assistant District Attorney for the Eighteenth Judicial District in Sedgwick County, where she prosecuted criminal actions in the traffic, juvenile, drug, sex, domestic violence, and gang units. As a prosecutor, she honed her trial skills, argued before the Kansas Court of Appeals, and served as an instructor at the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center.
- Ms. Penner joined Penner Lowe Law Group in February 2020 and practices in the areas of Criminal Defense, including White Collar Criminal and Civil Defense, Civil Litigation, Personal Injury, Workers Compensation, and Juvenile Law.
Margot M. Pickering
Civil Lawyer
Margot M. Pickering is a native of Overland Park, Kansas. She began practicing in 2012 with Hinck Law Firm in Topeka, Kansas representing debtors in bankruptcy. Margot had the fortune to continue her legal career with her father in Olathe, Kansas where they focused primarily in corporate and business disputes.
Conquering Kansas’ Civil Legal Landscape: Why You Need a Top Lawyer
Kansas’ spirit thrives on resilience, and navigating civil legal challenges requires the same strength. Here’s why securing a top-notch civil lawyer in Kansas is crucial for maximizing your chances of success:
1. Masters of the Kansas Civil Law Maze:
Civil law intricacies can be daunting. A skilled lawyer is your guide:
- Deep Understanding of Kansas Law: Their in-depth knowledge of Kansas’ legal framework (including statutes and court precedents) ensures they effectively handle your case, whether it’s a contract dispute, property issue, personal injury claim, or more. ([invalid URL removed])
2. Strategic Planning for Your Kansas Civil Case:
Knowledge empowers informed decisions:
- Objective Case Evaluation and Strategy: A skilled civil lawyer can objectively evaluate the merits of your Kansas civil case. They will assess the evidence, analyze legal precedents, and determine the strengths and weaknesses of your position. With their expertise, they can develop a strategic plan to advocate for your interests and maximize the chances of a favorable outcome.
3. Your Fierce Advocate in Kansas’ Legal Arena:
Your voice matters:
- Strong Legal Advocacy: The best civil lawyers are effective advocates for their clients in Kansas. They possess excellent communication and negotiation skills, allowing them to represent you assertively and persuasively. Whether in negotiations or litigation, they will work tirelessly to protect your rights and advance your interests.
4. Trial-Ready Representation in Kansas Courtrooms:
Confidence in the face of litigation:
- Litigation Expertise: If your civil matter proceeds to litigation in Kansas, having the best civil lawyer is crucial. They are experienced in courtroom proceedings and know how to build a compelling case. They will handle all legal aspects, including preparing legal documents, presenting evidence, and making persuasive arguments in court.
5. Unveiling the Truth: Research and Investigation for Your Kansas Civil Case:
Strength comes from knowledge:
- Legal Research and Investigation: Civil cases often require extensive research and investigation to gather evidence and build a strong case in Kansas. The best civil lawyers have the resources and expertise to conduct thorough research, identify relevant legal precedents, and gather evidence to support your claims. Their investigative skills can be instrumental in strengthening your position.
6. Negotiation for Success in Kansas Civil Disputes:
Reaching settlements saves resources:
- Skilled Negotiation and Settlement: Many civil disputes can be resolved through negotiation or settlement outside of the courtroom in Kansas. The best civil lawyers are skilled negotiators who can represent your interests effectively. They can engage in constructive dialogue, explore settlement options, and strive to reach a favorable resolution without the need for prolonged litigation.
7. Risk Management for Your Kansas Civil Matter:
Experience minimizes risk:
- Risk Mitigation: Civil cases come with risks and potential consequences in Kansas. The best civil lawyers can help you understand and assess these risks, guiding you in making informed decisions. They will work to minimize risks, protect your interests, and provide strategies to mitigate any potential negative outcomes.
8. Peace of Mind During Your Kansas Legal Challenge:
Focus on what matters most:
- Peace of Mind: Hiring the best civil lawyer in Kansas provides peace of mind knowing that you have a legal professional who will handle your case diligently. They will navigate the legal complexities, handle paperwork, meet deadlines, and keep you informed about the progress of your case. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your life while having confidence in your legal representation.
Finding the Right Fit:
Remember, the best civil lawyer for you will depend on the specific nature of your case. Consider seeking recommendations, reading reviews, and conducting consultations to find a Kansas civil lawyer who best fits your requirements.