Real Results: Successful Criminal Defense Case Studies
Zeroing in on an effective defense
Protecting our clients’ rights is always our top priority, and at David A. Hill, Attorney At Law, we have more than 44 years of experience defending people’s freedom in all areas of the criminal justice system in the United States.
On this page, you will find detailed descriptions of specific cases to provide you a better understanding of the ways we prepare defense strategies, address challenges, and fight for positive results in our clients’ legal matters.
Whether you or your loved one faces serious allegations or want to pursue the expungement process, these real-life examples demonstrate the effectiveness of our thorough, compassionate, and tireless advocacy.
Case Study 1: Domestic Assault Charges Dropped
Accused of assaulting his wife in the home, our client-a veteran of service-faced misdemeanor charges with the threat of jail and loss of parental rights hanging over him. David A. Hill knew early on that a full investigation would be crucial. We interviewed witnesses at the scene, obtained still video footage from a neighbor’s security system, and engaged a respected forensic psychologist to assess our client’s state of mind at the time of the incident.
We also created an event chronology demonstrating inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s version of events. Before trial, we shared what our investigation revealed with the prosecutor, including statements by neutral witnesses and expert testimony demonstrating holes in the prosecution’s version of events.
After negotiating, and upon a pre-trial motion to exclude unreliable evidence, the prosecutor agreed to drop all charges. Our client avoided the damaging consequences associated with a criminal conviction and was allowed to keep his parental rights. This case demonstrates the value of careful preparation, involving an expert witness, and a carefully crafted approach to each particular fact set.
Case Study 2: Felony Drug Possession Acquitted
Our client-a young adult-was stopped by police on suspicion of violating a traffic law. The officers allegedly recovered a large quantity of controlled substances in the client’s vehicle, which led to felony drug charges with years of imprisonment on the table and careers at risk due to a felony record.
Attorney David A. Hill recognized an immediate Fourth Amendment violation that was likely present. We filed a motion to suppress, specifically that the officers involved lacked probable cause for a search and seizure. Our team also retained a highly regarded toxicologist as an expert witness to review drug samples and impeach testimony from the state’s lab.
At the suppression hearing, we were able to demonstrate inconsistency with statements from the officers and highlight procedural impropriety. The judge determined that the search was not lawful and ruled that the evidence was inadmissible in court. With the prosecution unable to proceed, the case was dismissed and our client vindicated from all allegations.
This case highlights how vital it is to challenge unlawful acts committed by police officers-and how effective expert testimony can be in protecting the rights of clients. Our client was able to continue his education undisturbed and avoided the disastrous implications of a felony on his record.
Case Study 3: Tape-Officer Charged with Homicide Not Guilty
Our client, a local business owner, faced vehicular homicide charges stemming from an accident at a busy local intersection. The prosecution accused him of driving recklessly and impaired, seeking significant prison time and driving revocation.
David A. Hill combined attention to detail in accident reconstruction with expert utilization. We hired one of the nation’s leading accident reconstructionists to re-create the scene in special software as though it was the real thing. Prior toxicology results were reviewed by our medical expert, and they showed that our client’s blood-alcohol level was actually under legal limits at the time of the accident.
At trial, we cross-examined the State’s witnesses and revealed serious gaps in their timeline and methodology. The jury heard compelling evidence that the accident in question was unavoidable due to bad weather and the involvement of another car. After less than three hours of deliberation, the jury returned a not guilty verdict.
Our client was acquitted and returned to his life, family, and business. This case illustrates our firm’s ability to handle tough litigation, do more with expert resources, and fight for the truth.
Case Study 4: Gun Charges Dismissed for First-Time Suspect
Our client, a 22-year-old college student, was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm after being stopped while driving. Although the firearm was legally owned, the failure to properly register it caused serious felony charges.
Given the mistake and what a conviction would do to our client’s future, we sought negotiation and mitigation. We collected character references, school records, and proof that our client was in compliance with all other laws. Our team showed that there was no criminal intent and that our client positively contributed to the community.
Through extensive negotiation with the prosecuting attorney and demonstration of our client’s stellar background, we were able to reduce the charge from felony to misdemeanor. The client was permitted to finish a firearms safety course and perform community service requiring successful completion of probation, which resulted in dismissal of the charge.
We protected our client’s education and employment opportunity, showing that we would do anything to avoid damaging a client’s future and find solutions that work, especially for first-time offenders.
Case Study 5: Expungement of 35-Year-Old Veteran’s Charge
Background: A retired veteran contacted our firm to seek relief from long-term implications of a non-violent drug conviction in the early 1990s. This conviction continued to limit housing and employment opportunities for many years.
Strategy: David A. Hill conducted a detailed analysis of the client’s criminal history, including eligibility under existing state expungement law. We drafted a comprehensive petition including letters from prior employers, proof of community service, and an affidavit documenting the client’s law-abiding conduct since the conviction.
Outcome: Following an extensive hearing on the merits, the court granted the firm’s expungement petition. The client’s conviction will be removed from his record, restoring his missing rights and opening up new housing and employment opportunities.
Impact: This is a prime example of the firm’s commitment to postconviction relief, as we recognize that veterans face many unique challenges even in long-past criminal matters. Helping a qualifying client move on eliminates this burden as they can begin building better tomorrows.
Our Strategy: Care, Thinking, Results
All cases are different. We take special care to treat every client with the consideration and courtesy they deserve. Whether you are facing the potential of a lengthy prison sentence for a felony charge or an opportunity for postconviction relief, David A. Hill, Attorney At Law, provides a customized approach to your case built on:
- Legal knowledge and experience
- Careful investigation and due diligence
- Compassionate advocacy
Having helped numerous clients seek acquittals, dismissals, and/or successful appeals of private criminal prosecutions in which they were tried for crimes they did not commit, we know that this approach works, and that it is what our clients need in order to protect not only their rights but their livelihoods.
Testimonials: What Our Clients Have to Say
Numerous clients have provided feedback on their experience with David A. Hill, Attorney At Law. From jury trials to sensitive negotiations, our firm’s hard work, communication, and results have touched people’s lives for the better. Clients are consistently impressed by our honest advice, candid explanations, and compassion throughout tough times. These words of appreciation inspire us to continue pursuing justice on behalf of every client. For more, see our Testimonials.
Contact Runyan & Adlesi, P.C
If you are facing criminal charges or need postconviction relief in the United States, you should not hesitate to obtain skilled legal service. Call David A. Hill, Attorney At Law, for a free initial consultation and to discuss your case. Our firm is located at 1201 Main St Fl 85, Kansas City MO 64105. We represent clients in Kansas City and throughout Missouri and Kansas. Call (975) 460-7682 or email [email protected] to arrange for your complimentary initial consultation. Let us put our knowledge, experience and commitment to work for you.