Matthew Wideman Attorney at Law
Licensed in Missouri and Kansas
831 Armstrong Ave
Kansas City, Kansas 66101
(816) 263-2665
[email protected]
Divorce
Navigating the Complexities of Divorce with Compassionate Legal Expertise
Order of protection AND pROTECTION FROM ABUSE
Protecting Your Rights: Experienced Representation for Restraining Order Cases
Criminal Defense
Defending Your Freedoms: Aggressive Advocacy for Criminal Justice Matters
Real Estate and Landlord Tenant
Protect Your Rights as a Tenant or Landlord
MY THOUGHTS ABOUT THE LAW
Blog
Divorce
Divorce Is Hard. I Can Help.You're going through a divorce and it's stressful and confusing. You're worried about your kids and money. Don't worry, I've got your back.I'm a divorce lawyer in Missouri and Kansas. I help families like yours every day. Families with kids and two working parents.Divorce means splitting things up. Things like:Money and property you own;
Time with your kids; and
Paying child support.It's complicated and upsetting. But I'll make it simple. I'll explain everything clearly. No fancy legal words.I'll protect you and your children. I'll fight to get you:Your fair share of money and property;
Custody and time with your kids;
and Child support payments.I'll stand up for you. But I'll also keep things calm and fair. Divorce doesn't have to be a big fight. You don't have to figure this out alone. Let me guide you through it. One step at a time.I'll listen to your story. And explain how I can help your family. You've got this. And I've got your back.Book a 30 minute meeting with Matthew with the links below.
Order of protection and Protection from Abuse Cases
Protect Yourself with Experienced Legal Representation
Are you facing an Order of Protection or PFA (Protection from Abuse) matter in Missouri or Kansas? Don't go through it alone. I am here to fight for your rights and ensure your safety.Dedicated to Protecting Your Wellbeing
As an experienced legal professional specializing in Order of Protection and PFA cases, I understand the complex and sensitive nature of these matters. I am committed to providing personalized attention and aggressive legal representation to clients throughout Missouri and Kansas.Whether you are seeking an Order of Protection or need to defend against false allegations, I have the knowledge and resources to guide you through every step of the legal process. My goal is to protect your wellbeing and safeguard your future.You can trust that I will handle your case with the utmost discretion and professionalism, ensuring your privacy and personal interests are always the top priority.Proven Track Record of Success
With years of experience successfully representing clients in Order of Protection and PFA matters, I have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes. I am committed to fighting aggressively on your behalf and using my in-depth legal expertise to protect your rights.Book a 30 minute meeting with Matthew today with the links below:
Criminal Defense
Protect Your Future with Skilled Criminal Defense Representation
Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges in Missouri or Kansas? Don't risk your freedom, reputation, or future - turn to an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight tirelessly to protect your rights.Aggressive Advocacy for Clients
As a seasoned criminal defense lawyer, I understand the unique challenges and concerns for people facing criminal charges. I provide discreet, personalized representation tailored to your specific needs.Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, I have the knowledge, resources, and trial experience to build a strong defense strategy and achieve the best possible outcome on your behalf.Comprehensive Legal Services
My criminal defense practice covers a wide range of offenses, including:Violent Crimes
Drug Crimes
White-Collar Crimes
DUI/DWI
Theft and Property Crimes
Domestic ViolenceNo matter the nature of your case, I will work diligently to protect your rights, preserve your freedom, and minimize the impact on your personal and professional life.A Proven Track Record of Success
Throughout my career, I have successfully represented clients in both state and federal courts, securing favorable outcomes in even the most complex and challenging cases. I am known for my tenacious approach, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to achieving justice for my clients.Don't risk your future, book a 30 minute meeting with Matthew with the links below.
real estate and landlord tenant
Protect Your Rights as a Tenant or LandlordAre you a tenant dealing with a difficult landlord? Or a small-scale landlord navigating tricky tenant disputes? I am an experienced real estate attorney and I am here to help.Comprehensive Real Estate Legal ServicesLease Review & Negotiation: I will carefully review your residential or commercial lease and negotiate favorable terms on your behalf.Eviction Proceedings: Whether you're a landlord seeking to evict a problem tenant or a tenant facing an unlawful eviction, I will fight for your rights.Landlord-Tenant Disputes: From security deposit conflicts to maintenance issues, I resolve all types of landlord-tenant disagreements.Why Choose Our Firm?
Decades of Experience: I have over 10 years of proven experience handling real estate and landlord-tenant cases.Personalized Attention: You'll work directly with me, and not a junior associate, to ensure your unique needs are met.Cost-Effective Representation: I offer competitive rates and flexible payment plans to fit any budget.Book a 30 minute meeting with Matthew today with the links below:
My Thoughts in no certain order:
July 23, 2024 blog post: In Missouri, how do I get my dog back from my ex girlfriend or ex boyfriend?It is becoming increasingly common for younger generations of Americans to not get married and have children. Instead people are getting into long term relationships and adopting pets. When a relationship ends, it's not just the human hearts that are affected. These beloved pets can become caught in the crossfire of a breakup, leading to complicated custody situations. If you're in Missouri and your ex-partner has taken your pet, you may be wondering about your legal options. This post will guide you through the process of using Missouri law to regain custody of your cherished companion.Understanding Pet Custody in Missouri
In Missouri, as in many states, pets are legally considered personal property. This means that traditional child custody laws don't apply to pets. However, this doesn't mean you're without options.Steps to Legally Reclaim Your PetGather Documentation
First, collect all documents that prove your ownership of the pet. This may include:a) Adoption or purchase papers;
b) Veterinary records;
c) Registration documents;
d) Text messages with your ex-partner indicating the ownership of the pet in question;
e) Receipts for pet food, pet beds, and pet daycare; and
d) Microchip information.Attempt Informal Mediation
Before pursuing legal action, try to resolve the issue amicably with your ex-partner. Document all communication attempts with your ex-partner. The admissions made in these discussions maybe useful in a replevin action or additional claims of conversion.Consult a Lawyer
If informal mediation fails, it's time to consult a lawyer experienced in property disputes and replevin actions. They can help you understand your rights and the best course of action to get your pet back from the ex-partner. I ask that my client's bring all of their ownership documentation to our initial consultation.File a Replevin Action
In Missouri, a lawyer can file a replevin action, which is a legal procedure which allows the plaintiff to recover personal property from the defendant that has been wrongfully taken. Pets are considered property under Missouri law. Replevin cases are required to be brought in the Missouri County where the pet is located.Bond and Proving Ownership
In court, you will have to post a bond, double the pet's claimed value, in order to obtain immediate temporary custody of the pet from a defendant. Determining the value of a beloved pet can be very difficult, but a value of the pet must be set by the plaintiff at the beginning of the case. The judge can order the sheriff to take physical custody of the pet from the defendant and transfer the pet to the Plaintiff. During the pendency of the case the pet is considered in the custody of the court even if it physically resides with one of the parties to the case. In order to win the case you'll need to prove that you are the rightful owner of the pet. This is where your documentation becomes crucial.Consider Settlement
It is always a good idea to consider settlement in these matters. The court has a hammer and not a scalpel. They can only determine ownership of the pet, and cannot create a schedule for visitation between two parties. Your lawyer may negotiate a settlement with your ex-partner's lawyer. This could involve shared custody arrangements or compensation for surrendering the pet.Await the Court's Decision
If a settlement isn't reached, the court will make a decision based on the evidence presented.Legal Considerations
Missouri courts may consider factors like who purchased the pet, who primarily cared for it, and who can provide the best home. If you and your ex-partner acquired the pet together, the case might be more complex. Keep in mind that legal proceedings can be lengthy and costly.Preventive Measures for the Future
To avoid such situations in the future, consider:a) Having a written agreement about pet ownership and custody when entering a relationship and purchasing a shared pet;
b) Keeping all pet-related documents in your name; and
c) Microchipping the pet with your information.Conclusion
While the process of legally reclaiming your pet in Missouri can be challenging, it's not impossible. With proper documentation, legal guidance, and persistence, you can fight for your furry friend's return. Remember, the law views pets as property, but we know they're family. Don't hesitate to seek legal help to reunite with your beloved companion. Remember to consult with a qualified attorney for advice tailored to your specific situation. Laws can change, and each case is unique.
Matthew “Matt” Wideman is an attorney who has been practicing law since 2011. He has experience practicing in many areas of civil and criminal law. He has experience
in handling Landlord Tenant, Unlawful Detainer, DUI, Family Law, and Personal Injury matters.In addition to being a lawyer, Matthew ran a property management business with his family for five years. Matt is a lifelong Missourian. Raised in St. Louis, he graduated from Chaminade College Preparatory School High School in 2002. He then attended Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history in 2006. Later, he earned a master’s degree in business administration from Webster University in 2008, and his Juris Doctorate from Oklahoma City University in 2011.Beyond practicing law, Matt spends his weekends with his wife Jessica, his sons MJ and Mason, and his black lab Miranda. He is an amateur practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and a lover of dogs.He is a member of the following bars:Missouri Bar
Kansas Bar
Eastern District of Missouri Bar
Eastern District of Missouri Bankruptcy Bar