Schopfer, Jana M.

Erica Schoenig is an experienced trial lawyer who aggressively represents clients who have been accused of criminal matters such as drug possession, drug sales, manufacture of drugs, domestic violence, DUI, crimes of violence, sex crimes, firearms charges, felony cases, misdemeanor crimes, all traffic tickets, minor in possession of alcohol, juvenile crimes, and probation and diversion violations.  In an era where laws are increasingly restricting individual liberties, Erica puts her experience to work for her clients as she fights to protect their constitutional rights.  As a former prosecutor, Erica knows her way around the courtroom as she has prepared hundreds of cases for trial and has a high success rate for the cases she has taken to jury trial both as a prosecutor and defense attorney.  Whether a client has been charged with a serious felony crime or traffic ticket, Erica is known for her meticulous attention to detail and determination to achieve case resolutions that satisfy her clients. 

Erica's first job after law school was working as a law clerk for judges in Johnson County, Kansas.  That position allowed her to apply and further develop her legal research and writing skills as she worked closely with judges in the courthouse.  Erica next accepted a position as a prosecuting attorney in the Johnson County, Kansas District Attorney's Office.  She prosecuted cases for over six years, gaining in-depth experience as a trial lawyer.  Erica prosecuted serious crimes such as murder cases and sex crimes, was a member of the office drug unit, which focused on prosecutions of high-level drug crimes for four years, and also prosecuted domestic violence crimes exclusively for thirteen months. 

In April 2007, Erica began her career working as a defense attorney and fighting for individuals who have been accused of crimes.  Her experiences as a law clerk and prosecutor help her to be a stronger advocate for her clients inside and outside the courtroom.  Erica's high level of professionalism is an asset to clients when she obtains plea offers for them.  When it comes to plea offers for clients Erica's motto is simple:  the plea offer needs to be fair and reasonable. Some cases just need to be taken to trial.  For clients wanting trials, Erica works closely with the client as a trial strategy is developed.  Prosecutors have commented to Erica that it seems she knows the case better than the prosecutor by the time it gets to trial. 

Erica began developing her courtroom and trial skills long before she went to law school.  She has extensive music performance experience.  In 1998, she graduated with honors from Wichita State University with degrees in music performance and music education and has performed in front of crowds for most of her life.  While at Wichita State, Erica was one of a select group of musicians chosen in a contest to perform a solo selection with a symphony orchestra.  Erica's leadership skills as an attorney were developed at Wichita State, as well. As a member of her sorority, Delta Delta Delta, Erica held officer positions, including President, and also received a national leadership award.  She was also awarded the prestigious recognition of being chosen as a Senior Honor Woman at Wichita State University.  Erica graduated from the University of Kansas School of Law in 2001.  While in law school, Erica focused on gaining practical experience for her future criminal law career by serving as an intern for the United States Attorney's Office and the Johnson County District Attorney's Office.  She also spent a school year working with the Defender Project at KU investigating and writing appeals for clients convicted of state and federal crimes.     

Erica is a member of the Kansas Bar Association, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Johnson County Bar Association.  As a companion part of her practice to criminal defense of individuals in domestic violence cases, Erica also represents victims in domestic violence cases.  Whether a victim is facing potential criminal charges, or needs help requesting modification of no contact orders in front of a judge, Erica has extensive experience dealing with those issues in court.  In addition to criminal law matters, Erica also handles family law cases such as divorce, paternity, child custody, child support, protection from abuse and stalking orders. 

Erica grew up on her family's farm in Western Kansas.  Erica's strong work ethic was developed as she helped her family with the farm work during her growing years.  Erica and her husband, Brian, are the proud parents of their most important treasures, their two daughters.