Kris Hill chose to become an attorney because he saw it as an effective way to help people in a time of need, becoming their voice in a complex legal system.
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Kris believes—truly believes—that everyone deserves a vigorous defense when they are facing a criminal allegation. He acts on behalf of people who have been accused or charged with felonies, misdemeanors, and OVIs, counseling them in the immediate aftermath and representing them throughout the entire process—in front of magistrates, prosecutors, judges, and juries. Kris uses his ability to evaluate all facts and identify the most critical issues to adequately inform, protect, and defend his clients in negotiations, motions, trials, and appeals.
“People who get caught up in actions or events that trigger criminal allegations or charges are vulnerable to the system,” explains Kris. “Too often, in the heat of the moment, they say or do things that can hurt their case in a court of law. Although I’m certainly not there when ‘it’ happens, I can be there as quickly as possible to help my client navigate those first important hours when they’re being questioned or charged.”
Kris says that the difference between early representation and not immediately calling counsel is significant. Whether you’ve been in trouble with law enforcement before, or not, there are critical missteps to avoid at all costs.
“In all cases, you have the right to remain silent and the right to call an attorney,” adds Kris. “The only thing you must do, when asked by law enforcement, is to state your name and address. The more you speak, the more complicated your case becomes, even if you are innocent.”
DOMESTIC RELATIONS, CONTESTED CUSTODY
Kris cares about his clients. He goes above and beyond to listen to their concerns and gets to know them as people, not merely a file on his desk. He knows that they are going through a difficult time, but also knows that he can guide them effectively through the legal decisions they need to make and the actions they need to take, including those that impact not only their lives but also the lives of their loved ones.
In domestic relations and contested custody cases, his clients appreciate his ability to logically and effectively analyze their facts and to anticipate and communicate potential outcomes or consequences. He is also ready to “fight the good fight” when appropriate.
“I take my responsibility as a lawyer and counselor very seriously in all types of matters I handle,” says Kris. “Each case that comes into our office carries a weight that we do not take lightly. But when it comes to divorce and custody cases, the burden is often tangible. I want to make things right, or at least as best as they can be for my client and I will fight up to the finish if necessary.”
APPEALS AND MORE
While Kris enjoys analyzing the facets of a case and constructing a defense, he also has a talent for taking cases on appeal—challenging lower court decisions—or settling the score when rights are wronged.
Kris tells of one case where, before his involvement, an individual had signed an immunity agreement in a murder case. In exchange for divulging to prosecutors and detectives all that this individual knew about the murder, which allowed them to build their case, they legally could not charge him with any crime. As it turned out, at the conclusion of the case, they charged the individual, despite the immunity agreement. Kris got the call and took on the case to defend his new client’s immunity rights.
“I got involved in the case and was successful in gaining a full dismissal of the charges against my client, and the Court of Appeals affirmed the dismissal,” explains Kris. “Trust in our public officials is one of the most important things we have. Through my representation, I was able to have the court enforce my client’s immunity agreement.”