Kansas District Attorneys
By Lisa Burden, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed September 19, 2023
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Most states have attorneys who prosecute violations of state laws that occur within their geographic jurisdiction. In general, they handle criminal cases. These lawyers are often called district attorneys or prosecutors. Kansas calls them County Attorneys, although a few offices are city attorneys. They are the chief law enforcement officer in their counties or cities.
County attorneys have a range of responsibilities. They prosecute criminal, traffic, and juvenile cases. Kansas county attorneys are also responsible for handling involuntary commitments, county code violations, and family law matters such as "Child in Need of Care" cases.
The County Attorney's Office also oversees the preparation of search warrants and helps law enforcement agencies in investigations when needed.
The prosecutors provide services to victims and witnesses as they go through the criminal justice system, including survivors of domestic violence.
Kansas county attorneys advise county officials as the county counselor.
The county attorney does not offer free legal advice. The county attorney doesn't handle personal or civil matters. Private lawyers or Legal Aid handle those legal issues.
Sometimes, criminal defendants decide to contact the prosecutor on their own. There may be times when you'll want to discuss plea bargain options or other details. It's best to talk to an attorney before making such a move. Or, better yet, hire an attorney before talking to the district attorney's office. A criminal defense attorney experienced in dealing with prosecutors will be careful not to reveal your defense strategy and will present your case in the best light.
We don't recommend self-representation except for simple legal actions such as expungement. Indeed, some county attorneys offer expungement information on their websites.
Contact information for your local county or city attorney is below.
Public Defenders
Public defenders provide legal help in criminal matters to Kansans with low incomes. The income eligibility generally follows the federal poverty guidelines.
Kansas also has federal public defenders. They represent people in Kansas who can't afford to hire an attorney and are:
- Charged with federal crimes
- Convicted of federal crimes
- Under federal investigation
Some people are concerned that public defenders aren't "real attorneys." They are qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyers. The state of Kansas licenses them. And they are members of the Kansas Bar Association.
Kansas Attorney General's Office
While Kansas prosecutors represent the state in their city or county, the Kansas Attorney General (or "A.G.") is the top legal advisor and law enforcement officer with statewide jurisdiction. The Kansas Attorney General is the state's chief legal officer and prosecutor.
The attorney general's responsibilities include:
- Providing legal opinions and advice to government agencies
- Handling criminal appeals
- Investigating and prosecuting serious crimes
- Representing the state in civil litigation
- Enforcing consumer protection laws
The attorney general leads the state's Department of Justice, which includes criminal justice, civil litigation, and several other divisions serving Kansans.
As with district attorneys, the attorney general is an elected position.
Directory of Kansas District Attorneys
A district attorney represents each county in Kansas (although some are county attorneys). Click on the corresponding link below to learn more about your local D.A.'s office and how to get a hold of it (some city prosecutors are also listed).
Note: Although we strive to provide the most current contact and website information for the D.A. offices in this state, this information is subject to change. If you have found a contact or website information that is not current, please contact us.
Facing Criminal Charges in Kansas? Get Professional Legal Help Today
If you are charged with a crime, you may be facing the loss of your professional license, steep fines, lengthy probation, or even prison time. The Kansas district attorney filing charges against you has the resources to pursue a conviction; shouldn't you also have a legal professional on your side? Whether you're in Kansas City, Olathe, or Junction City, get started today by contacting an experienced Kansas criminal defense attorney near you.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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