THE LAW OFFICE OF DENISE KIRBY        KANSAS CITY'S AWARD-WINNING DWI DEFENSE        816-221-3691

THE LAW OFFICE OF DENISE KIRBY
KANSAS CITY'S AWARD-WINNING DWI DEFENSE
816-221-3691

NOT AN ORDINARY CITY.
NOT AN ORDINARY ATTORNEY.

About

THE LAW OFFICE OF DENISE KIRBY

I Bring A Personal AND EFFECTIVE APPROACH

TO EVERY CASE I WORK ON, WHICH IS WHY

MY CLIENTS APPRECIATE ME

AND WHY THEY REFER ME TO THEIR FRIENDS.

Attorney, Denise Kirby portrait
About Denise

Overview

I've lived in the Kansas City area most of my life, and I have practiced law in Kansas City since I graduated from Georgetown University Law Center in 1994.
I am the President of the Missouri DWI Institute and the Missouri Society for Criminal Justice. I'm the Co-Chair of the Missouri DWI Institute Summer Series, a DWI training seminar that teaches other attorneys how to better defend DWI cases. My peers have selected me as one of very few "Super Lawyers" in the area of DUI/DWI Defense in the states of Missouri and Kansas. I am the former Co-Chair of The Bernard Edelman DWI Law and Science Seminar and have served on the Board of Directors for the Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and as a member of the MACDL DWI Committee.

Awards & Honors

Voted "Best DUI/DWI Attorney" 2023 - Kansas City Star

Peer-Rated for DUI/DWI in Missouri and Kansas for many years running – Super Lawyers

President's Award 2019 – Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Clients' Choice Award – AVVO

Top 100 DWI Attorneys – National Association for DUI Defense

“10 Best” Criminal Lawyers in MO Based On Client Satisfaction – American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

Top 100 Trial Lawyers – The National Trial Lawyers

Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers – The American Society of Legal Advocates

Top 1% – The National Association of Distinguished Counsel

Leadership

President – Missouri DWI Defense Institute

President – Missouri Society for Criminal Justice

Board of Directors – Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

DWI Committee – Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

The DUI Defense Lawyers Association

National College for DUI Defense

Speaking Engagements

Missouri DWI Institute - I am the Co-Chair of the Missouri DWI Institute Seminar Series, which are yearly training seminars for defense attorneys in Missouri and Kansas.

Bernard Edelman DWI Law & Science Seminar - Former Chair

24-Hour NHTSA DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing - Police Academy Training for Lawyers - Co-Chair and Instructor

Challenging Prior Convictions in the Criminal DWI Case – I frequently lecture on this topic across the state of Missouri.

Criminal Basics of DWI Defense - The Missouri DWI Institute

Winning Administrative License Hearings: Using Their Records Against Them - Bernard Edelman DWI Law & Science Seminar

The 2017 Criminal Code Revision – The Missouri DWI Defense Institute – Program Chair

Defending Drug Cases in State Court Part One & Part Two – Missouri Bar Association

Missouri DWI – What You Need to Know to Protect Your Client – Missouri Bar Association

What You Need To Know – Kansas City Municipal Court – Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association

Municipal Court Update – Defense Forum – Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association

Education

Georgetown University Law Center – Juris Doctor, 1994

Missouri State University – B.S. with honors, 1990

NHTSA Certified in the Administration of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests

Publications

DWI Law & Science 2012/2015

Work Experience

Shook Hardy & Bacon – Kansas City, MO 1994-1996

The Law Office of Denise Kirby 1996- Present
The Star Denise Kirby Best DUI/DWI Defense Attorney 2023 badge
Denise KirbyReviewsout of 66 reviews
10.0Denise Kirby

Many attorneys think administrative license hearings are

rarely winnable, as the win rate for drivers

in the state is reportedly 4%.

My win rate in recent years has been over 90%!

Kansas City, Missouri skyline at dusk

K.C. DWI Legal Defense

When you get a DUI/DWI, if it’s your first or your fifth, you need to talk to a DUI attorney right away.

Denise Kirby

Award-winning Services
SERVICES

My promise is simple:

I will do my best to get the result you desire

in your DWI case.

Denise Kirby

What My Clients Say About Me

(current reviews)
Posted on Google Google
S Bristow profile picture
S Bristow
132 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The Law Offices of Denise Kirby are a step ahead of other law firms. Her ethics and honesty are apparent right off the bat. I would HIGHLY recommend Denise Kirby.
Posted on Google Google
Adam Thomas profile picture
Adam Thomas
178 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Denise is the absolute best. Spoke with 5 different attorneys in the KC metro, all of whom told me I was SOL. Met with Denise, and she had the conviction removed from my record within 2 weeks! If I were to recommend any attorney in the KC Metro it would be her!
Posted on Google Google
Jeff profile picture
Jeff
239 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
If you're reading this review you're likely someone who's never been in trouble with the law and caught yourself a DWI. If you've got it like that, spend up for Denise. Otherwise, try your hand with a $2,500 lawyer, see what that gets you. It's all a sham, but do yourself a favor if you can afford it.
Posted on Google Google
Rhea Obermueller profile picture
Rhea Obermueller
273 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
10 out of 10! Very dedicated goes above and beyond!
Posted on Google Google
Steve Z profile picture
Steve Z
301 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
First, I want to say that I am so glad I hired Denise Kirby to represent me for my DWI case. When my situation occurred, I was visiting Missouri during a vacation and initially was very nervous because I live in a different state and did not know any lawyers in the area. After doing some research and speaking with her, I decided to hire her. I’m not proud to say this, but after being tested, I was twice the legal limit for alcohol. Denise was able to get my charges amended to careless driving with a fine and NO probation. What’s even better, is that she won my license hearing so I never even lost my driver’s license. Needless to say, I learned my lesson, and feel that I made the right decision when going with her.
Posted on Google Google
Anonymous profile picture
Anonymous
310 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I was charged with a DWI in Jackson County and hired Denise to take my case after interviewing multiple attorneys. I had heard she was the best and I was willing to pay the premium for her services over others after hearing her detail her goals with my case, which were in line with my own. I was impatient at first, not hearing anything for the first few months. I was nervous and wanted to be involved in the process so that I could know what was happening. Denise assured me that she takes great care with and extensively reviews each and every one of her cases--that is why it takes time. This could not be more true. Fast forward a year and a half, and Denise won my civil license hearing for refusal of testing. She was then able to swiftly get my criminal case dismissed and traffic violation changed to a non-moving violation. I could not have asked for a better outcome! Denise is THE EXPERT in this area and it is why her services are in such high demand. If you truly want the best outcome for your DWI case and its impact on your future, you need to hire Denise. Her skills are worth every last cent.
Posted on Google Google
Joseph Wahl profile picture
Joseph Wahl
313 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Denise helped me through a situation that came up following a Royals game involving alcohol. I felt very uncomfortable with the officers involved. Once Denise was involved she put me at ease. Explained factual details. Reviewed everything and ultimately was able to change every part of the outcome to what I would consider a positive end. One in which all involved learned something of value. I would hire Denise in a heart beat for any alcohol related event involving law enforcement in MO.
Posted on Google Google
lifeontheriver1021 profile picture
lifeontheriver1021
339 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I wrecked my truck and tested over the legal limit. Through her hard work and non stop dedication to my well being, I was offered diversion. Now, less than two years later, I have had my charges dismissed and I am free to drive as much as I want, whenever I want, wherever I want (although that wasn’t too much of an issue prior because she handily won my license case with the state). If you get a DWI and she is licensed to practice law where you were charged, there is absolutely no other attorney I would trust my future to. Absolutely nobody. Hands down the best.
Posted on Google Google
Liam Mundis profile picture
Liam Mundis
377 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Posted on Google Google
Brian Jones profile picture
Brian Jones
399 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I was arrested for a DWI last year after being pulled over for speeding. As it was my first arrest, I was anxious about the situation. After researching several attorneys, I chose Denise Kirby due to her specialization in DWI/DUI cases and her positive reviews. Although her services are pricey, I felt it was worth the investment to protect my job, which requires a valid driver’s license. During our consultation, Denise was upfront about the uncertainties of the case, but her expertise reassured me. She successfully won my license hearing and reduced my DWI and excessive speeding charges to two non-moving violations. If you hire Denise, you can expect a dedicated attorney who truly wants to win. Thank you, Denise!
Posted on Google Google
PEYTON SALTER profile picture
PEYTON SALTER
407 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing lawyer to work with. She helped me out a lot and I can’t think her enough.
Posted on Google Google
DaLawn profile picture
DaLawn
533 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Denise was the best lawyer I’ve ever had. I was in dire need of a great DUI attorney and I found one in her. Unfortunately I was charged with a 3rd DUI while on probation for my 2nd. I called Denise for a consultation and she immediately kept it straight with me on what I was looking at. She had me explain everything so she could note everything down. Once my court date finally arrived she told me that the charges had been dropped! I couldn’t believe the work she had done. Next she attended to the matter of me violating my probation. She also got my violation dismissed. I can’t thank Denise enough for getting me another chance and a chance that I’m definitely not taking for granted. She is well worth the money.
Posted on Google Google
Jodi Johnstone profile picture
Jodi Johnstone
847 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I feel as though I was wrongfully arrested for a DUI. I am a pretty boring mom who never goes out and had not had a drink in years. A friend came from out of town and for the first night in years I took her out in KC, had 1 drink, than drank water for about 2 hours, grabbed a bite to eat, and about 3 or 4 hours after my one drink got in the car and forgot to turn on my headlights and got pulled over by a thirty to arrest DUI officer. He did three field sobriety test and I lost my balance on the walk, the last test, due to nerves/anxiety (was shaking), it was on an elevated surfaces and a uneven cracked sidewalk. He arrested me and gave me a PBT which I easily passed but still insisted I was under the influence. I called many lawyers and many stated that many prosecutors are hard on DUI’s due to MAD and even though it seemed straightforward we likely would have to go to trial. I looked up Denise and was impressed by her credentials but once I talked to her I knew she was hands down the one I wanted to hire. She was confident in her abilities and what she would be able to do for me. I could have gotten a cheaper lawyer but I she was well worth the extra I had to spend to get representation that would fight for me. Denise was able to get charge completely dismissed. It is disappointing that you can do everything right and still get wrongfully arrested by someone stacking up cases but thankful for people like Denise who are able to represent people when they feel like the odds are stacked against them. Denise, thanks for everything you did to represent me and get my case dismissed. I shouldn’t never need another DUI lawyer but would/will recommend you, hands down!
Posted on Google Google
Seth Corless profile picture
Seth Corless
1182 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Wow! I initially spoke to a few different lawyers once I was charged with a DUI. Denise gave me advice and asked a ton of questions about the incident on the very first call I had with her. It was above and beyond what I had received with any other lawyers. Then she continued to fight my case until she was able to successfully win both the license and criminal case. Denise is by far the best attorney I’ve ever worked with and would recommend her 100 times out of 100!
Posted on Google Google
Jonathan Cagle profile picture
Jonathan Cagle
1191 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My legal experience with Denise was unbelievably amazing. After explaining my conviction, Denise was precise and detailed on formalizing the steps it would take in managing my case. After reviewing police records and video evidence, Denise diligently worked through my DWI arrest case, aligning with the courts and prosecuting attorney to amend my DWI to a C&I without having to serve probation. I couldn't be happier with the outcome and my life returning to normal without the stress that comes with a situation like this.
Posted on Google Google
Austin Hake profile picture
Austin Hake
1484 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I got a DWI on a side by side, this was going to be my 3rd in my life. They were trying to charge me with a class E felony, I was looking at going to prison for 4 years. I hired Denise 5 days after I got arrested. I looked around and talked to a lot of other lawyers, but she is the only one to take time out of her day to really talk to me, and talk me through the process. She fought for me every chance she could. She got my case down to a class a misdemeanor and I only have to server 10 days in jail. I can’t thank her enough.
Posted on Google Google
Jan Herrington profile picture
Jan Herrington
1548 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We could not have chosen a better lawyer for my husband’s traffic case. We were always able to talk to her. While we gathered our finances, Denise was patient with us and handled anything that came up automatically! We had an outstanding outcome! Court fees and license returned. You can’t go wrong by hiring Denise Kirby!
Posted on Google Google
Len Jordan profile picture
Len Jordan
1580 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Denise is very knowledgeable of the laws and how they affected my case. She always had a pleasant demeanor when communicating with me about my case. I had another attorney representing me and was about to lose my job and license for the rest of my life and be incarcerated. Denise changed all of that and got the charges dropped from a felony to a careless and impudent and kept my license. I would not hesitate for a second to recommend her to anyone who is needing a top notch attorney for a DWI charge. You will be in good hands with her representing you!!!!! Thank you Denise!
Posted on Google Google
Michael Badami profile picture
Michael Badami
1700 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very professional! Took the time to ensure that she looked over every aspect of my case, and always was available to help with any questions or concerns I may have had! Even won my DWI at trial, would recommend her services to anyone & everyone!
Posted on Google Google
Daniel Carney profile picture
Daniel Carney
1773 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
She never failed to put her best foot forward in my defense , she took everything I said I needed to happen into consideration when advising me of the case and where we stood , got the results I asked for and I would recommend her services to anyone who needed a first class defense
Posted on Google Google
Scott Pierson profile picture
Scott Pierson
2030 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Posted on Google Google
jeffrey byrd profile picture
jeffrey byrd
3009 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Posted on Google Google
Rac Da profile picture
Rac Da
3341 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
  • anonymous
    "Denise was the best lawyer I’ve ever had. I was in dire need of a great DUI attorney and I found one in her. Unfortunately I was charged with a 3rd DUI while on probation for my 2nd. I called Denise for a consultation and she immediately kept it straight with me on what I was looking at. She had me explain everything so she could note everything down. Once my court date finally arrived she told me that the charges had been dropped! I couldn’t believe the work she had done. Next she attended to the matter of me violating my probation. She also got my violation dismissed. I can’t thank Denise enough for getting me another chance and a chance that I’m definitely not taking for granted. She is well worth the money."
  • anonymous
    "I got charged with a DWI in September, 2022. I hired Denise Kirby and she started by calling me and getting all the information she needed from me asap. I was very impressive with how she handled the case and she constantly kept me in the loop with what was going on. After watching the video of my arrest, she filed for a motion to suppress and won that, which resulted in the case being dropped. She came to court incredibly prepared and had a counter for everything the prosecutor said. Overall, watching Denise handle this case was very impressive and I would highly recommend her to anyone in this situation."
  • ” 8 DUI's
    I am not proud of the number of DUI's I have had which is why I'm writing anonymously. I couldn't be more pleased with the results Denise negotiated for me. I had my license back in 1 year and only 2 days shock time. I do not say this to brag, but to show what an Amazing lawyer Denise is. I was afraid of going to jail, losing my job, my house.......my life. Whether it is your first or eighth offense, you want Denise Kirby fighting for you. She is professional and will work tirelessly to defend your rights. I believe her name and reputation precedes her in any court in Kansas City and surrounding areas. I promise, you will not be disappointed.
  • ” Amazing!
    When I got my DUI, I went to Denise and she was on top of her game! She helped me out big time, my top DUI lawyer of choice!
  • ” Great Attorney!
    Denise gave me realistic expectations in our initial meeting. Then, she delivered better than expected results. I would recommend her to my friends or anyone!!!
  • ” Best Lawyer money can buy
    Searching for a DWI layer isn’t pretty, and it isn’t fun. Most will find it scary, having seen Denise’s reviews and her achievements I put faith and trust into her and reached out. Not once did I question my decision after getting in contact. Denise thoroughly laid the steps she would take and how the process should play out. Denise asked the necessary questions and responded in detail every day along the way. My case was not pretty nor was it an easy win (although she made it seem that way). I was pretty much caught red handed and took the wrong steps during my arrest. Denise won my refusal hearing and all charges including my DWI, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and careless driving were all dismissed. I mean it with all my being I owe her more than money. She saved my future literally and I could not have asked for better representation. A+++ . I will recommend her to family and friends if need be and I recommend if you’re reading this to trust your gut and Go with Denise.
  • ” Denise, the best lawyer in the game for a DUI.
    My DUI was in Kansas City, Missouri. The officer who pulled me over was higher up in the DUI Task Force, but my situation was suspicious from the beginning. I was told I had a light out in the back of my car when I did not and was forced to do a sobriety test with heels on. A personal reference took my case at first that was a lawyer who did not specialize in DUI law. They thought that fighting the charges would not be a good idea since I did eventually blow at the station. I felt deep down there was more that could be done due to the circumstances and I wanted to at least try and fight the charges. I did my research and found Denise from her fabulous reviews. After I reached out, she was quick to get back with me and was very eager to hear the details of my case. She was immediately willing to defend me, and the results were better than I could have ever expected. The complete process took a little over a year due to covid and the court pushing back hearing dates, but she was able to win my license hearing last Summer. I never lost my license or received a breathalyzer. Last month, my criminal case concerning my DUI was decided and Denise was able to get three tickets including my DUI charge dismissed and completely taken off my record. If you want a lawyer that will listen to you and fight to get the best possible outcome, Denise is the Lawyer for you!
  • ” Denise Kirby is a Great Lawyer
    Denise Kirby came very highly recommended to me and my case. As I was facing multiple felony charges including felony DUI and felony drug possession, her knowledge and experience proved to be paramount in getting the result we wanted. She was able to get both charges amended and I did not serve jail time. I suggest anyone who is facing serious charges in the KC area to contact Denise Kirby because she is a serious lawyer.
  • ” Can’t recommend enough.
    I spoke with several friend and family attorneys. Each time I walked away with the impression that all they could do is help with the filings and going through the motions of dealing with a DUI. Denise was the only person I spoke with that gave me confidence that my DUI was something we could beat, and that there would be as minimal interference with my life as possible.
    The longer I worked with Denise, the less stress I felt about my DUI. That alone was invaluable.
    Denise Kirby not only made the entire process as stress free as possible, but she was also able to get both charges brought against me dropped; a possibility I could never imagine with any of the other attorneys I’d spoken with.
  • ” Administrative hearing DWI charge amended
    Very easy to deal with. Listened to my concerns about my DWI charge, acted, and got the job done. Could not have asked for a better outcome! Thanks for everything done throughout this process and would recommend to anyone needing help of a truly horrible situation.
  • ” Absolutely Astonishing Performance!!
    Wow! Where to begin.... I made some bad decisions that could have potentially have huge impacts on my life and career. I was on 4th alcohol driving incident, with the last one causing damage to other people's property. I needed a lawyer who would mitigate the consequences so I could get back to leading a normal life. Denise was that lawyer.... From the initial consultation I felt that she truly did know what she was doing. She was upfront, honest and reassured me that she would do everything in her power to ensure that this did not completely ruin my life. The entire case drew out an entire year with Denise not backing down and using her professional acumen to ensure that I got the results that I felt comfortable with. End of that day, I got an SIS (record will be cleared of anything after probation). This is an amazing result considering my record and the accident that damaged another person property. Do not hesitate to hire her, she is skilled, caring, upfront, honest and she is the best at what she does.
We all make mistakes. No exceptions.

Even when we have positive intentions, we may find ourselves in a legal predicament.

For the vast majority of us, being charged with driving under the influence is a very stressful event. But it’s not the end of the world, and we can definitely deal with this situation. We have the power and the ability to take proper measures to improve our circumstances and to learn from what occurred.

callME

Get In Touch for a Free initial consultation. 

let’s talk about your case.

i can help.

(816) 221-3691

Contact Us

Please fill out the form & send it and we will quickly reach back out to you with answers.

WHY I do what I do.

Yes, many clients seek help because mistakes were made and help is needed. I stand ready, willing, and able to help. That said, there are additional motivations behind WHY I do what I do.
My primary motivation is preserving our freedoms against “watered down justice.”

My Philosophy

LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

(the stuff that makes you glad you didn’t go to law school)

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.

All information provided by this site is general in nature and provided for informational purposes only. This information is not intended as legal advice, and should not be taken as such. I would have to know the specific facts and evidence in your particular case in order to give you legal advice. You should not draw conclusions about your case based solely on general sources of legal information. Instead, you should seek legal advice specific to your particular case.

The information on this website may not reflect the most current legal developments, and is not guaranteed to be correct or up-to-date. DWI law changes frequently, sometimes several times per year. While I work hard to stay very current with the law, that knowledge may not be reflected in my website (because…time).

The information on this website should not be taken as a promise or indication of future results.

Use of this website and/or transmission of information to and from this firm from this website and/or by email is not intended to create, and does not create, an attorney-client relationship. No attorney-client relationship is created with the firm absent an express agreement to create such a relationship. If you send me information before we have clearly established an attorney-client relationship, that information would not be subject to the attorney-client privilege and duty of confidentiality. At this time, routine email communications are not encrypted, a fact you should take into account in communicating highly sensitive or confidential matters.

Missouri does not license attorneys based on their legal practice area specializations. Neither the Missouri Supreme Court nor The Missouri Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist designations. While my practice is devoted exclusively to DUI/DWI and criminal defense, and while I have developed substantial knowledge in the area, ethical rules do not permit use of the word "specialist" for criminal defense or DWI attorneys.

(816) 221-3691