Skip to Content
Top
Open Container Laws

Caught With an Open Container?

A Knowledgeable Overland Park Criminal Attorney Can help

Kansas has some of the strictest laws governing the use of alcohol in the nation. In fact, many counties are still dry, meaning that the sale and consumption of liquor is completely prohibited. It is no surprise, then, that Kansas' laws about transporting alcohol are particularly harsh and many first time offenders find themselves facing significant penalties when charged with an open container offense.

At Gigstad Law Office, LLC, we have built a reputation for offering affordable, effective, and award-winning criminal defense representation to the Overland Park community. We have ensured time and time again that our clients' rights are protected in the face of tough charges. We make sure that every possible avenue for a reduced or dismissed charge is exhausted. If you have been charged with an open container offense, get the representation you deserve—call our firm today.

Open Container Definitions & Penalties

Sometimes citizens assume open container charges only occur when they are "piggy-backed" onto a DUI charge. While this can and does happen, open container charges are their own, separate offense that can be charged even when no one in the vehicle is intoxicated. Under Kansas law, all alcohol containers that have been previously opened need to be stored in the trunk or behind the furthest seat from the front seat.

Penalties for an open container charge can include:

  • Up to $200 in fines
  • Up to six months of prison
  • Up to a year of license suspension

You do not have to let a minor charge like an open container offense upend your whole life. These charges can be avoided with aggressive representation. If you or a loved one has been charged with an open container offense, call my office to speak with a dedicated Overland Park criminal defense lawyer. Together, we can sort your case out and put this ordeal behind you.

Contact my firm today to schedule a free consultation.

  • What Our Clients Say
    Our clients share their stories about what happened and how we helped.
  • About Our Attorneys
    We're here to protect your legal rights and defend your future.
  • Our FAQ's
    You Are Probably Asking Yourself Some Questions

Testimonials

Client-Centered Legal Represntation
    "I Couldn't Be More Pleased!"
    I couldn't be more pleased with Mr. Gigstad's services. Contacting a law firm you typically are faced with leaving multiple messages and dealing with secretaries that might not always know the best route to take. From the very first time I contacted Roberts office he personally was always very quick to respond to email and explain exactly what need to be done in my case. You never want the need for a lawyer but if the need arises again I will not hesitate to contact Mr. Gigstad again for his services.
    Derek
    "I Always Felt "in the Loop""
    Robert was extremely responsive from day one - returning my email contact request almost immediately. He walked me through the process and answered all my questions honestly and promptly. I always felt "in the loop". I originally contacted him because he was the only Johnson County attorney I found that had listed in his advertisement, expungement, as a service he provided. Robert assisted me in doing something I didn't know was possible - finally putting a bad decision I made 14 years ago behind me. Although I appreciated his professional and respectful approach to his work, I hope I never need his services again. If I do however, I would not hesitate to call him.
    DWI Client
    "Great to work with!"
    Mr. Gigstad was upfront and professional about what I would be facing from the very beginning. He worked to help me understand the situation and found the best available outcome for me, considering. I would hope if I ever need legal representation again I would be in the hands of someone as professional and experienced as Mr. Gigstad.
    Former Client
    "I appreciate all of his expert help making the most out of a bad choice & bad situation."
    Chris was great from the start! I made a bad judgement call to get myself into the position I was in, and I needed help to rectify the situation & move forward. I am completely inexperienced when it comes to the law & proceedings. Chris was professional, supportive, and just - HANDLED everything. I appreciate all of his expert help making the most out of a bad choice & bad situation. There is so much additional sleep I could have lost at night if I didn’t trust Chris to guide me in the decision making and achieve the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Chris!
    Happy Client
    "I Would Recommend Him to Anyone Facing a Bad Situation like I Had"
    Mr. Gigstad helped me with my DUI. Sadly this wasn't my first time in need of a lawyer, but I liked Mr. Gigstad a lot more than my previous lawyer. I would recommend him to anyone facing a bad situation like I had.
    Jarrod
    "Robert Assisted Me in Doing Something I Didn't Know Was Possible"
    Robert assisted me in doing something I didn't know was possible - finally putting a bad decision I made 14 years ago behind me. Although I appreciated his professional and respectful approach to his work, I hope I never need his services again. If I do however, I would not hesitate to call him.
    DUI Client
    "Top Notch Job! Mr. Gigstad Did an Excellent Job"
    javascript:void('Save')
    Bill
    "Extremely Responsive, Straight Talking Attorney That Carries Himself like None I Have Ever Used"
    Extremely responsive, straight talking attorney that carries himself like none I have ever used in the past. Treated me like he was providing a service, rather than doing me a favor by taking my case. Gave me his opinion of my case and his recommendation on how he would approach it but let me make the final decisions. In the end he negotiated a deal with the prosecuting attorney that was better than I thought possible. Zero jail time and minimum fines totaling $250(maximum was $2500). Now, 6 months later he was able to get all of my remaining probation time terminated for good behavior. During that time he also helped out with a lease agreement for a rental property, and a bid contract. Considering the level of service I received and the results I got, in the future I won’t use anyone else.
    Criminal Defense Client
  • LICENCE NOT SUSPENDED A.H. V. KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
  • LICENSE NOT SUSPENDED. A.M. V. KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
  • DRIVER'S LICENSE NOT SUSPENDED. A.M. V. KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
  • LICENSE SAVED B.B. V. KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
  • NOT GUILITY C.C. V. M.B.

Contact Gigstad Law Office, LLC Today!

We’re Ready to Help

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Make The Right Call To The Right Attorney

Why We're Different
  • Exemplary Professionalism
    Proud members of top legal associations, including the ABA and National College for DUI Defense®, and Avvo-rated for professionalism. Rely on us for unwavering commitment to the highest standards in handling your case.
  • Justice Advocates
    Active participants in the Kansas Association for Justice and the NACDL, we are staunch advocates for justice. Expect a dedicated ally, committed to ensuring fair treatment within the legal system.
  • Results-Driven Approach
    Backed by The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100, we are motivated to achieve success, be it through negotiations or trial. Our firm is committed to delivering tangible results for your legal matters.
  • Rooted In Integrity
    Our firm, a member of the Kansas Bar Association, Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and Johnson County Bar Association, prioritizes your needs. Experience client-focused and principled legal representation.