Tamara Putnam

Tamara Putnam is an experienced attorney who has spent more than 25 years practicing law in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Her career reflects a consistent focus on litigation, courtroom advocacy, and protecting the rights of individuals facing serious legal challenges. She is known for her preparation, strategic thinking, and strong presence in court.

Tamara began her academic path at the University of Missouri at St. Louis. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics with Cum Laude Honors. During her undergraduate years, she also received a four-year athletic scholarship as a member of the University of Missouri–St. Louis’s NCAA Women’s Basketball team. She later attended Washburn University School of Law, where she obtained her Juris Doctorate.

Tamara distinguished herself academically while attending Washburn University School of Law. During law school, she became a published author when the Washburn Law Journal released her law review article co-authored with Jonathan Lautt. This scholarly work demonstrated her ability to analyze complex legal issues and communicate them clearly within the legal community.

Tamara began her legal career at the Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, where she served as a drug prosecutor. She later advanced to lead prosecutor of the Violent Gang Crime Unit. In that role, she worked closely with the Drug Enforcement Unit and Street Narcotics Unit to prosecute serious felony offenses involving controlled substances.

Tamara focused heavily on prosecuting violent crimes committed by suspected gang members while leading the Gang Unit. Her work included cases involving assaults, robberies, armed criminal action, and shooting into a dwelling. This experience provided her with extensive courtroom exposure and a deep understanding of criminal investigations and prosecutorial strategies.

Tamara transitioned into private practice with a primary focus on criminal defense after her time as a prosecutor. Her background allows her to anticipate prosecutorial tactics and law enforcement approaches. She prepares cases with careful attention to detail, using her insider knowledge to protect the rights of those accused of crimes.

Tamara Putnam later expanded her practice to include personal injury litigation, handling cases ranging from slip and fall claims to wrongful death matters in Missouri and Kansas. Her work reflects a strong commitment to individuals harmed by negligence, and she is widely recognized for her determined advocacy in both criminal defense and serious personal injury cases.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Carter & Putnam, LLC
• Member, The Missouri Bar
• Member, Kansas Bar Association

Licensed State

• Missouri
• Kansas Bar

Education

• Washburn University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (J.D.)
• University of Missouri
  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Awards & Badges