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1. What if I cannot afford an attorney and must appear in criminal court?

If you cannot afford an attorney and are coming to court for a criminal matter, you may ask the court to appoint an attorney to represent you. To apply for a court appointed attorney, you will be required to complete an application and financial affidavit that includes your financial information. If the judge determines that you qualify for a court appointed attorney, he or she will appoint one to represent you. You may be required to reimburse the State of Kansas for attorney fees.

2. Why do I have to pay attorney fees if an attorney was court appointed to represent me?

K.S.A. 21-4603 provides that persons who are convicted of a crime must reimburse the State general fund for all or part of the attorney fees and expenses paid by the Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services. Attorneys appointed on misdemeanor matters are paid by the counties, who have adopted a policy similar to the State’s policy concerning the reimbursement of attorney fees.

3. How do I get my criminal conviction expunged?

There are some convictions that cannot be expunged and all convictions have time limits that must be met before an expungement can be sought. It is advisable to consult an attorney. Self-help forms are available at the Kansas Judicial Council website.

4. I have an active bench warrant, what should I do?

If you have an active bench warrant, you should contact your attorney. Secondly, turn yourself into law enforcement and then be prepared to pay the bond. If you need further information about the case, you can contact the District Clerk’s Office; however, bench warrants are authorized by the judge and clerks cannot change any of the orders.

5. How can I find out if someone has a criminal record?

You may contact the Kansas Bureau of Investigation for criminal record searches.