Cole Hawver

Cole Hawver is an attorney with Clark & Platt, Chtd. in Manhattan, Kansas. He handles criminal defense cases and plaintiff-side personal injury matters. His defense work involves serious allegations and complex cases in which evidence, courtroom procedure, and constitutional rights are central concerns. He has substantial experience advocating for accused individuals and preparing matters for jury trials. His practice focuses on protecting clients’ rights while addressing the consequences of criminal charges.

Cole received a B.S. in History from Kansas State University. He continued his education at the University of Kansas School of Law and completed his legal studies there. He was admitted to the Kansas Bar in 2008. His academic preparation supports the research, case analysis, and legal writing required in criminal defense litigation. His years in public defense further developed the practical courtroom skills used when representing clients facing difficult criminal allegations.

Cole began his legal career at the Kiley Law Firm in Overland Park before working at the Kansas North Central Regional Public Defender’s Office in Junction City. He became Chief Public Defender in 2015. His defense experience includes serious felony prosecutions, cases involving Jessica’s Law, and demanding jury trials. He has secured acquittals in criminal cases and now brings that background to private representation. His work involves assessing the state’s evidence and defending clients in contested proceedings.

Cole Hawver is a member of the Riley County Bar Association and the Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. The latter organization recognized him with its Clarence Darrow Award in 2023. His professional background combines private practice, public defense, and leadership within a defender office. He applies this experience to criminal litigation and to representing injured plaintiffs. The firm’s official pages describe his role differently, but consistently identify him as a practicing attorney.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Clark & Platt, CHTD
• Member, Kansas Bar Association
• Member, Riley County Bar Association
• Member, Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• Kansas

Education

• University of Kansas School of Law
  J.D.
• Kansas State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS) in History

Awards & Badges