About Franklin County

Franklin County is located in east-central Missouri, nestled along the southern bank of the Missouri River approximately 40 miles west of St. Louis. The county spans 923 square miles of diverse terrain, ranging from the rolling hills and dense woodlands of the Ozark border region in the south to the broad river bottomlands in the north. This geographic variety gives Franklin County a distinctive character that blends rural agricultural heritage with the suburban growth spilling westward from the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. The Meramec River also cuts through the southern portion of the county, providing scenic beauty and recreational opportunities that draw visitors and residents alike. With a population of approximately 103,737, Franklin County is one of Missouri's mid-sized counties, large enough to support a range of services and amenities while still retaining a strong small-town identity. The county seat of Union sits near the geographic center of the county and serves as the hub of local government, commerce, and community life. Union itself is a charming historic city that reflects the broader character of Franklin County — proud of its roots, practically minded, and deeply community-oriented. Other notable communities include Washington, the county's largest city, which sits along the Missouri River and serves as a regional commercial center, as well as Sullivan, St. Clair, and Pacific. The Franklin County economy is diverse and grounded in a mix of manufacturing, agriculture, retail trade, and service industries. Washington is home to a strong manufacturing base, including well-known industries in the production of corncob pipes and glass products, giving the area a unique industrial identity. Agriculture remains important throughout the more rural parts of the county, with livestock, row crops, and timber all contributing to the local economy. The county's proximity to St. Louis also means that a significant portion of the workforce commutes to the metropolitan area, bringing suburban economic patterns into what remains a largely rural and small-town landscape. Tourism tied to the Meramec River, Route 66 heritage, and the wine country of the Missouri River valley also plays a growing role in the local economy.

Practice Areas in Franklin County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Franklin County

Franklin County is served by the 20th Judicial Circuit Court of Missouri, which handles the full range of state court matters including felony criminal cases, civil disputes, family law proceedings such as divorce and child custody, probate matters, and juvenile cases. The Circuit Court is located at the Franklin County Courthouse, 400 East Main Street, Union, Missouri 63084. In addition to the Circuit Court, Franklin County has an Associate Circuit Court division that handles misdemeanor criminal cases, small claims matters, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings in felony cases. Municipal courts operate in several incorporated cities throughout the county, including Washington, Sullivan, and Union, handling local ordinance violations and certain traffic infractions within their respective city limits. Together, these courts form the backbone of the local judicial system and are the primary venues where Franklin County residents encounter the legal process.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Franklin County

In Franklin County, the vast majority of legal matters — including criminal prosecutions under Missouri law, family law cases, personal injury claims, and most civil disputes — are handled by Missouri state courts within the 20th Judicial Circuit. However, certain cases fall under federal jurisdiction and are heard in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, which is headquartered in St. Louis. Federal jurisdiction applies to cases involving federal laws or constitutional rights, disputes between citizens of different states where the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000, immigration matters, federal criminal charges such as drug trafficking or firearms offenses, and bankruptcy proceedings. Franklin County residents who have federal matters will generally need to appear at the Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse in St. Louis, and it is important to understand which court system governs a particular legal issue, as the procedures, rules, and available remedies can differ significantly between state and federal venues.

Common Legal Situations in Franklin County

Given Franklin County's blend of rural communities, small towns, and suburban growth corridors, residents encounter a wide range of legal situations that reflect the county's character. Traffic offenses — including speeding, DWI/DUI, and license-related violations on busy corridors like Interstate 44 and U.S. Highway 50 — are among the most frequent legal matters handled by local courts. Family law issues such as divorce, child custody disputes, child support modifications, and adoption proceedings are also extremely common, particularly as the county's population continues to grow and family circumstances evolve. Criminal matters ranging from misdemeanor charges to more serious felony offenses, including drug-related crimes, theft, and assault, regularly come before the Circuit Court. Employment disputes, landlord-tenant conflicts, personal injury claims arising from motor vehicle accidents, and estate planning or probate matters round out the legal landscape, reflecting the everyday challenges faced by a working, property-owning, and family-centered community.

Why Go To Court for Franklin County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is an excellent choice for Franklin County residents who need reliable, accessible legal representation without the uncertainty that often surrounds hiring an attorney. The Go To Court team offers a free 24/7 legal hotline, meaning residents can get answers to urgent legal questions at any hour, whether they are facing a late-night arrest or a time-sensitive family law matter. The firm is committed to transparent, fixed-fee pricing structures, taking the financial guesswork out of legal representation and allowing clients to plan with confidence. With an experienced team familiar with Missouri courts and the specific needs of communities like those found throughout Franklin County, Go To Court is well-positioned to provide effective, compassionate legal help when it matters most.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in Franklin County?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Franklin County, you generally have the option to pay the fine, which is treated as a guilty plea, or to contest the charge in the relevant municipal or associate circuit court. Paying certain traffic fines can result in points being added to your Missouri driving record, which may affect your insurance rates and, if accumulated, could lead to a license suspension. Consulting with a traffic attorney before deciding how to respond can help you understand your options and potentially avoid negative consequences on your driving record.

How does the divorce process work in Franklin County?

Divorce in Franklin County is handled by the 20th Judicial Circuit Court and is officially referred to as a 'dissolution of marriage' under Missouri law. At least one spouse must have been a Missouri resident for 90 days prior to filing, and the process involves addressing issues such as division of marital property, spousal maintenance, child custody, and child support if children are involved. Uncontested divorces where both parties agree on all terms can be resolved relatively quickly, while contested divorces may require mediation or a court hearing and can take considerably longer.

Can I expunge a criminal record in Missouri, and how does it work in Franklin County?

Missouri law allows for the expungement of many misdemeanor and felony convictions, subject to specific eligibility requirements including waiting periods that range from three years for misdemeanors to seven years for most felonies. If granted, expungement effectively seals the record from most public searches, which can significantly improve employment and housing opportunities. Expungement petitions in Franklin County are filed with the 20th Judicial Circuit Court, and it is advisable to work with an attorney to ensure your petition is properly prepared and that you meet all statutory requirements.

What are my rights if I am arrested in Franklin County?

If you are arrested in Franklin County, you have the constitutional right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning — you should clearly and calmly invoke these rights as soon as possible. Law enforcement is required to inform you of your Miranda rights before conducting a custodial interrogation, and anything you say prior to invoking your right to counsel can potentially be used against you in court. You also have the right to a prompt initial appearance before a judge, at which bail conditions will be addressed, and the right to be represented by a public defender if you cannot afford a private attorney.

How is child custody determined in Franklin County family court?

In Franklin County, child custody decisions are made by the Circuit Court based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent's relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to home and school, the mental and physical health of all parties, and the willingness of each parent to support the child's relationship with the other parent. Missouri courts recognize both legal custody, which involves decision-making authority over major life decisions, and physical custody, which determines where the child primarily resides, and arrangements can be sole or joint for either type. Parents are encouraged to reach a mutually agreed parenting plan, but if they cannot, the court will impose a custody arrangement after reviewing all relevant evidence.

Neighbouring Counties

Franklin County is bordered by Warren County to the north, St. Charles County to the northeast, Jefferson County to the east, Washington County to the south, Crawford County to the southwest, Gasconade County to the west, and Montgomery County to the northwest.