United States District Court for the District of Kansas
As part of the Tenth Federal Circuit, the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas serves as the principal trial court for federal cases within the state of Kansas.
It handles a variety of cases, including civil, criminal, and bankruptcy matters, ensuring that justice is administered efficiently and effectively.

If you are charged with a federal crime within this jurisdiction, your active participation and understanding of the court's operations will be crucial in making informed choices regarding your defense. This brief overview of the court and how it operates is designed to empower you in this process.
The Robert J. Dole Courthouse is located at 500 State Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101, and the phone number is 913-735-2200.
You must show a photo ID to enter the courthouse and pass through courthouse security. Lawyers who present photo identification and a current bar registration card from this or any other federal or state court may bring in electronic communication devices.
Photography or audio and video recordings of court proceedings are strictly prohibited. The public may not bring cell phones, cameras, recording devices, or other electronic devices.
The U.S. Probation and Pretrial Office, which can be reached at 913-735-2400, is responsible for conducting pre-sentence investigations and preparing presentence reports for the court. The Federal Public Defender, reachable at 913-551-6712, provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney.
The United States Attorney's Office phone number is 913-551-6730, and the U.S. Marshals is 913-551-6727.
The Frank Carlson Federal Building is located at 444 S.E. Quincy, Topeka, KS 66683, and the phone number is 785-338-5400.
The Wichita United States Federal Court is located at 401 N. Market, Wichita, KS 67202, and the phone number is 316-315-4200.
What is the Jurisdiction and Structure of the District Court?
The U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas has jurisdiction over federal cases that arise in the state of Kansas.
Its jurisdiction covers the entire state, meaning that if a federal crime is committed in any part of Kansas, the case will likely be tried in this District. Federal offenses include crimes that involve crossing state or national boundaries, affecting interstate commerce, involving federal agencies or financial institutions, or occurring on federal lands.
The federal District of Kansas is separate from the Kansas state court system, which handles offenses committed solely at the state level. As noted above, the court has three locations serving different parts of the state:
- Kansas City: Robert J. Dole U.S. Courthouse, the primary headquarters for the District.
- Wichita: Wichita U.S. Federal Court.
- Topeka: Located in the Frank Carlson Federal Building.
Pursuant to the requirement of the Speedy Trial Act of 1974, the Speedy Trial Act Amendments Act of 1979, and the Federal Juvenile Delinquency Act, the judges of the United States District Court for the District of Kansas have adopted time limits and procedures to minimize undue delay and to further the prompt disposition of criminal cases and certain juvenile proceedings.
This commitment to fairness and efficiency in the judicial process is designed to provide you with a sense of security and protection.
Who are the Judges of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas?
The District of Kansas is currently presided over by five district judges, including the Chief Judge and three senior district judges, who are elder judges that have taken on a reduced caseload after serving full terms.
Their extensive experience and knowledge of federal law will provide you with a sense of confidence in the judicial process.
There are also currently five magistrate judges who assist the district judges by handling pre-trial matters, such as bail hearings, arraignments, and other procedural aspects of cases. They may also preside over lesser offenses like federal misdemeanors.
What are Common Types of Federal Crimes In Kansas?
The U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas hears a wide range of criminal cases. These cases usually involve violations of federal law, which are distinct from state criminal laws.
The types of federal crimes handled by the District of Kansas often involve serious offenses that may carry significant penalties, including long prison sentences and substantial fines. Some of the most common types of federal criminal cases handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas include:
- Drug Trafficking and Distribution: Cases involving the trafficking, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or marijuana.
- Firearm Offenses: These include illegal possession of firearms, trafficking in firearms, and use of firearms in furtherance of drug crimes or violent offenses.
- Fraud and White-Collar Crimes: This includes offenses such as wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, identity theft, and embezzlement.
- Immigration Crimes: Cases involving illegal re-entry into the United States, human trafficking, or document fraud related to immigration.
- Child Pornography and Exploitation: Offenses related to the possession, distribution, or production of child pornography, as well as child exploitation.
- Sex Offenses involving human trafficking for sexual exploitation and other sex offenses prosecuted under federal law.
- Cybercrimes: Cases involving hacking, identity theft, and other internet-related criminal activities.
- Public Corruption: Offenses involving bribery, extortion, or corruption by public officials.
Information for Defendants Preparing for Trial
Defendants facing trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas should be aware that federal courts operate under different rules and procedures than state courts.
Federal cases tend to be more complex, often involving federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or ICE. Additionally, penalties for federal crimes can be more severe than those for state offenses. This makes it crucial for defendants to be well-prepared and fully informed about the nature of federal criminal proceedings.
Defendants should expect to go through the following key stages during their federal trial:
- Initial Appearance: This is a defendant's first court appearance, during which they will be informed of the charges against them.
- Detention Hearing: In cases where pre-trial detention is an issue, a hearing will be held to determine whether the defendant should be detained or released on bail.
- Pre-trial Motions: Both the defense and prosecution may file motions to exclude evidence, dismiss charges, or request other judicial actions.
- Plea Bargain or Trial: A defendant may be offered a plea bargain or choose to proceed to trial, where the prosecution will need to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
How Can a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Help You?
Since federal cases are handled differently than those at the state level, penalties are usually more severe in your best interest when facing federal charges to hire a federal criminal defense attorney with specific experience in federal court. Some of the key benefits of an attorney experienced in federal criminal defense in Kansas include:
- Familiarity with Local Court Procedures: Attorneys who regularly practice in the District of Kansas will be familiar with how the court operates, including procedural nuances that can impact the case.
- Relationships with Court Personnel: Attorneys who have worked extensively in the District of Kansas often have established relationships with prosecutors, judges, and court staff. This familiarity can help in negotiating plea deals or in procedural matters.
- Strategic Pre-trial Motions: Experienced attorneys can file pre-trial motions that may exclude evidence or reduce the charges, improving the chances of a favorable outcome.
- Effective Negotiation: Federal prosecutors are often very experienced and prepared. A seasoned defense attorney will be able to negotiate more effectively with the prosecution, potentially securing better plea deals or reduced charges.
Eisner Gorin LLP is based in Los Angeles, California. For additional information, contact our federal criminal defense law firm.
Related Content: