Best Gun Crime Lawyers in Missouri
Brynna Howell
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Brynna Howell originally thought she would major in business, maybe become an estate planner? But when the Florida native read “Anatomy of a Murder” while studying at College of the Ozarks, everything changed. She became a true crime enthusiast and an attorney.
After graduating from College of the Ozarks, Brynna attended the University of Missouri School of Law, graduating in 2011. While at Mizzou, she had the opportunity to travel to South Africa, where she studied comparative justice and alternative dispute resolution at the University of Western Cape.
During law school, she also interned with the Stone County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. She enjoyed the work and knew criminal law would be interesting, so she joined the office after graduation.
Brynna was a prosecutor for nearly a decade. She handled cases in associate court, circuit court, and diversion programs such as DUI Court, Veterans Court, and Drug Court. Her caseload ranged from traffic cases to murder cases, but she maintained a special focus on drug offenses.
Brynna’s work on a team of nationally recognized Drug Court professionals involved mentoring drug courts around the country on substance abuse disorder, objective screening tools, incentives, and sanctions.
Although she knew her work was helping the defendants she faced in court, she felt that she wasn’t always able to see the people and families behind the set of facts.
Brynna joined MRD Lawyers in February 2022. She finds her work as a prosecutor and her new focus on defense to be “two sides of the same coin.” She is excited to continue to focus on drug cases, as well as assist her fellow attorneys. In 2022 she was named one of Missouri Lawyers Weekly’s Up & Coming attorneys.
Brynna is a member of Southern Missouri Women Lawyers, the Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters, and the former president of the 39th Judicial Circuit Bar.
Scott Rosenblum
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Scott Rosenblum is the President and principal founding member of the firm. Scott received a B.S from University of Missouri in 1979 and his J.D. from California Western University 1983. Scott was admitted to the Missouri Bar, the Illinois Bar and the United States District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri, as well as Districts throughout the United States; United States Court of Appeals, 5th, 7th, and 8th Circuits and United States Supreme Court.
In 2016, Mr. Rosenblum was inducted into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Mr. Rosenblum is listed in St. Louis Magazine Best Lawyer; Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers; Best Lawyers in America, Woodward/White. He has been voted Missouri’s Best Lawyer; 1) to call if you are charged with murder (and has been since they began the awards) and 2) to call for DWI. He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers; National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; Formal Board of Directors, The Missouri Bar, The Illinois Bar, Counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union.
Scott received the Atticus Finch Award for Courageous Contribution to Justice; Charles M. Shaw Trial Attorney Award and is also AV Rated by Martindale Hubbard. He is a lecturer for Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; Lorman Educational Institution; Missouri Bar Association; St. Louis Association; St. Louis Rams Rookie Camp.
- Missouri Lawyers “The POWER List: White-Collar Defense” (2022)
- Missouri Lawyers Media ICON Award (2020)
- St. Louis Magazine “Best Lawyers”, Lawyer of the Year, Criminal Defense White Collar (2005 – Present)
- St. Louis Magazine “Best Lawyers”, Lawyer of the Year, Criminal Defense General (2005 – Present)
- Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (2016 – Present)
- Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers (2006 – Present)
Mr. Rosenblum exclusively concentrates on the areas of Federal and State criminal law representing individuals and businesses charged with business crimes, white collar, murder, sex and drug offenses. He has represented dozens of professional athletes and major recording artists. Mr. Rosenblum has handled three of the nation’s largest white collar federal cases including one the country’s largest internet gambling cases. He has tried over 400 cases including approximately 100 murder cases and has argued appeals before every Missouri Court, including the Supreme Court and the Seventh and Eighth United States Circuit Courts of Appeal.
Mr. Rosenblum has represented individuals in Federal cases in Missouri, Illinois, South Dakota, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Georgia, New Jersey, Washington State, Washington D.C., Utah, Kansas, Maryland, California, and North Carolina.
To learn more about Scott, read the article Legal Eagle, Bar None originally posted in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch as well as the profile by Mike Bush.
Areas of Practice
- Federal and State Criminal Law
Bar Admissions
- Illinois, 1984
- Missouri, 1983
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Missouri, 1983
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas
- U.S. District Court Southern District of Illinois
- U.S. District Court District of South Dakota
- U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals 7th Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit
- U.S. Supreme Court
- U.S. District Court District of Kansas
- U.S. District Court District of Maryland
- U.S. District Court Central District of Illinois
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Illinois
Chris Miller
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Chris Miller focuses his practice on workplace discrimination and wrongful termination, criminal defense, workers’ compensation and personal injury matters. After completing law school, Chris worked in the public-sector representing both the Missouri Department of Social Services and Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Through those experiences, Chris has gained trial and administrative hearing experience on matters including child abuse and neglect issues, parental rights and custody disputes, and unemployment benefit and tax appeals.
Additionally, Chris successfully represented the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations before the Missouri Supreme Court in Gateway Taxi Management v. Division of Employment Security, 461 S.W.3d 830 (Mo. bank 2015).
- Education
- University of Missouri – Kansas City
Juris Doctor, 2012 - Truman State University
B.S., Political Science, 2009
- University of Missouri – Kansas City
- Bar Admissions
- Missouri, 2012
- Activities & Affiliations
- Boone County Bar Association
- Healthy Bottoms Diaper Bank
John M. Lynch
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Attorney John M. Lynch comes from a strong law enforcement background with a decade of experience as a police investigator and federal drug task force agent. Paired with his legal degree from St. Louis University School of Law, Mr. Lynch provides a unique and candid perspective for people charged with a full range of criminal activities. His practice includes federal criminal defense, DUI/DWI defense, drug possession defense, white-collar crime defense, personal injury and general trial litigation.
With over 20 years experience in his field, Mr. Lynch has achieved unparalleled success as an attorney known for candid, honest advice and a top gun record as a trial lawyer all over the country. Accordingly, Mr. Lynch has been honored as a Super Lawyer, National Trial Lawyers Association- Top 100, Top One Percent – National Association of Distinguished Counsel, and the highest rating available for attorney ethics and ability – AV Preeminent- with Martindale-Hubbell.
As a highly sought-after lawyer, Attorney Lynch also serves as a legal commentator on a variety of legal topics with multiple news and media outlets. As a professional speaker, Mr. Lynch has been a featured speaker at Washington University, Lindenwood University, St. Louis University, Columbia College and a host of media outlets across the country. Recently, Mr. Lynch was Invited to speak at Washington University regarding gun ownership rights and the associated legislative process. As a repeat lecturer, Attorney Lynch’s keen Insight into the Second Amendment and how it Is applied by states was a particular point of discussion for students studying ways to limit incidents of domestic abuse.
He has lectured on topics such as constitutional law – search and seizure, community policing, federal and state drug laws, and methamphetamine production. Working In various investigations, he has partnered with local media in presenting requested investigative reports. Additionally, Mr. Lynch enjoys his volunteer work, which recently includes corporate sponsorship of a golf tournament to benefit a charitable organization providing assistance to disabled children.
Mr. Lynch concentrates in the areas of Federal and State Criminal Defense, Misdemeanor, Traffic/DWI, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death and General Civil Litigation. Mr. Lynch provides a unique and candid legal perspective for those charged with the full myriad of criminal activities; from the inherently complex felony such as a white collar offense or criminal drug conspiracy, to routine traffic offenses and other ordinance violations.
Mr. Lynch has lectured on such topics as Constitutional Law- Search and Seizure; Community Policing; Federal and State Drug Laws; and Methamphetamine Production. In conjunction with various Investigations, he has also worked closely with local media in presenting requested investigative reports. Mr. Lynch’s law enforcement experience has also allowed him to expand into other areas of law where he strives to provide only professional and effective legal representation.
Joshua Garrett
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Josh Garrett grew up in Ozark, Missouri and spent many years running political campaigns throughout the country. When the time was right for him and his family, he took the next step toward the goal of practicing law, however the advocacy, public speaking, and strategic skills he developed as a political consultant translate perfectly to the courtroom. That is experience that sets him apart. He believes that what wins a case is the strategy that is unique to your situation.
From working at Ward Law Firm in Branson to opening his own practice, Josh has represented Southwest Missouri clients in hundreds of different types of cases. He lives in Springfield with his wife Lara and two children, Benjamin and Madeline. When he does have spare time, you can find him with his family in their camper or hiking and exploring the majestic outdoors of Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas.
EDUCATION
Washburn University School of Law
University of Central Missouri
ACTIVITIES & CERTIFICATIONS
Taney County Bar Association, President
Certified Guardian Ad Litem
Rule 12 Approved Mediator
AWARDS
Irvine E. Ungerman Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice
Max Rowinski Award for Excellence in Trial Practice
Jordan Wellinghoff
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Jordan is a former prosecutor who served the City of St. Louis in the Special Victims Unit. There, he confronted the most challenging criminal cases: domestic assault, sex crimes, and child abuse.
In 2018, Jordan began his legal career as a public defender in Southeastern Missouri where he counseled hundreds of clients and honed his trial skills.
At Richard H. Sindel, Inc., Jordan’s primary focus remains on criminal defense. He diligently fights for his clients’ rights by leveraging his background as a former prosecutor and extensive trial experience. Whether facing misdemeanor charges or serious felonies, clients can rely on Jordan to provide an aggressive defense.
Jordan also serves as a special public defender in St. Louis and Southeastern Missouri. This role allows him to extend his expertise to individuals who may face legal challenges without adequate resources. He believes that access to justice is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and works tirelessly to level the playing field for those in need.
Anthony Muhlenkamp
Criminal Lawyer/Gun Crime Lawyer
Anthony Muhlenkamp (feel free to call him Tony) has been practicing law since 2003. He graduated from the University of Missouri at Columbia in 2000 with a business degree, then headed west to Los Angeles, California where he graduated from Southwestern University School of Law. Although he thoroughly enjoyed his law school experience—especially criminal law, criminal procedure, and trial advocacy—he could not stand the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. There was something about spending four hours a day in traffic that simply rubbed him the wrong way. He also missed his family, his friends, and the overall “St. Louis attitude” that he’d grown so accustomed to his whole life.
After passing the Bar in 2003, Tony began working at the Missouri State Public Defender’s Office. He stayed there for three years and gained invaluable trial experience. His first jury trial, State v. March (216 S.W.3d 663, 2007 Mo.), was appealed to the Missouri Supreme Court and reversed because of arguments he had made to the trial court regarding the Confrontation Clause of the United States Constitution. Since then, Tony has been in private practice representing individuals charged with offenses in municipal, state, and federal court. He focuses specifically on criminal defense and does not dabble in other areas of the law.
Now a partner in his own practice, Tony carries a full caseload of criminal cases, including DWIs, drug charges, sex crimes, theft allegations and violent felonies. Most of his cases take him to the City of St. Louis, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Jefferson County. However, he regularly appears in the Eastern District of Missouri Federal District Court and routinely practices in outlying counties such as St. Francois, Butler, Washington, Lincoln, Pike, and Warren.
Tony served as chairman of the criminal law section of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) from 2014 to 2016. In 2012, he was elected to the Young Lawyers Section Council of the Missouri Bar and served in that capacity until 2014. He was also selected to Missouri and Kansas Rising Stars℠ in 2012, 2013, and 2014.
When he is not working, Tony is an avid sports fan and you will usually find him watching the Cardinals or his beloved Missouri Tigers. To date, his most important case is ensuring that these same passions are instilled in his young son, Mitchell.
The Show-Me State’s Struggle: Unveiling Gun Violence in Missouri, Legal Complexities, and Why You Need a Skilled Lawyer
Missouri, the “Show-Me State,” is known for its breathtaking Ozark Mountains, rich history, and a deeply ingrained tradition of gun ownership. However, this tradition comes with a significant responsibility. Missouri consistently ranks high in gun violence, making it crucial to understand the issue, its legal ramifications, and why retaining a skilled lawyer is paramount if you face gun-related charges.
A Glaring Issue: Unpacking Gun Violence in Missouri
Alarming Statistics: Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) paints a worrying picture. Missouri has a gun death rate exceeding the national average, with a disproportionate number of homicides and suicides involving firearms.
Contributing Factors: Several factors contribute to this issue, including:
- Lax Gun Control Laws: Compared to other states, Missouri has relatively relaxed gun control laws, making it easier to obtain firearms.
- Mental Health Concerns: Untreated mental health issues can be a significant factor in gun violence, particularly suicides.
- Socioeconomic Disparities: Poverty, lack of opportunity, and social isolation can contribute to a cycle of violence.
- Gang Activity: Gang violence often involves firearms, contributing to a higher rate of gun homicides in certain areas.
- Domestic Violence: Domestic violence situations involving firearms can escalate quickly and lead to fatal outcomes.
- Lack of Gun Safety Education: Insufficient education on safe gun handling and storage can contribute to accidental shootings.
Navigating the Maze: Missouri’s Gun Laws
- Federal vs. State Laws: It’s crucial to understand the distinction between federal and state gun laws. Federal law sets baseline regulations for firearms, while Missouri has its own unique set of laws governing gun ownership and use. A lawyer can ensure you’re in compliance with both.
- Background Checks: Federal law mandates background checks for all firearm purchases from licensed dealers. However, private sales between individuals are not subject to federal background checks in most cases. Missouri law may have additional requirements, and a lawyer can advise you on the legalities of private gun sales.
- Carry Laws: Missouri is an open carry state, meaning individuals over 21 can openly carry a handgun without a permit. However, concealed carry requires a permit with specific training and eligibility requirements.
- Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground Laws: Missouri has strong Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground laws, which provide legal protections for using deadly force in self-defense within your home or in public spaces where you have a legal right to be. Understanding these laws and their limitations is crucial.
The Crucial Role of a Lawyer in Gun-Related Cases
Facing gun-related charges in Missouri can be a stressful and confusing experience. Here’s why retaining a skilled lawyer is essential:
- Understanding Complexities of Gun Laws: Missouri gun laws, and gun laws in general, can be intricate, with nuances and exceptions. A lawyer with expertise in Missouri gun law can navigate this complexity and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
- Preserving Your Rights: Law enforcement interactions and interrogations can be intimidating. A lawyer can advise you on your rights and ensure they are not violated during investigations or arrests.
- Building a Strong Defense: Depending on the specific charges, your lawyer can explore various defense strategies, such as self-defense, mistaken identity, or procedural violations by law enforcement.
- Negotiating with Prosecutors: A skilled lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or pursue alternative sentencing options.
- Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will represent you in court, presenting evidence and advocating for the best possible outcome.
Finding the Right Legal Advocate:
When facing gun-related charges, securing the services of a lawyer experienced in Missouri gun law is vital. Here are some factors to consider when searching for legal representation:
- Experience: Look for a lawyer with a proven track record of handling gun-related cases in Missouri.
- Reputation: Research potential lawyers and read client reviews to gauge their effectiveness and client satisfaction.
- Communication Style: Choose a lawyer who is readily available to answer your questions and keeps you informed throughout the legal process.
- Area of Focus: Some lawyers specialize in criminal defense, while others focus specifically on gun law. Consider finding a lawyer with experience in both criminal defense and gun law.