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8 Minutes Read

Championing Justice in Kansas City: The Hastings Law Firm

Championing Justice in Kansas City: The Hastings Law Firm

The Hastings Law Firm has emerged as a trusted legal resource for residents of the Kansas City metro area. Founded in 2014 by veteran attorney Molly Hastings, the firm quickly built a reputation for unwavering commitment to clients and aggressive advocacy in and out of the courtroom[1][2]. With deep roots in the community and a “no judgment” philosophy, The Hastings Law Firm treats every client with respect and dignity while fighting tirelessly to protect their rights[3]. From high-stakes criminal trials to helping accident victims, the firm’s mission is simple: to stand up for individuals and families in their hour of need and deliver real results.

Comprehensive Legal Services for Kansas City Residents

Serving Jackson County and the surrounding areas, The Hastings Law Firm offers a wide range of legal services to meet community needs. While the firm is best known for its criminal defense expertise, its practice encompasses both criminal and civil matters. Key service areas include:

·         Criminal Defense: Vigorous defense against charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. The firm has tried over 90 jury trials – including high-profile cases – and is ready to defend clients no matter how daunting the accusations[1]. This includes violent crimes, drug offenses, sex crimes, and more.

·         DUI/DWI Defense: Skilled representation for those facing drunk driving charges. The Hastings Law Firm understands Missouri’s DUI laws and works to protect clients’ freedom and licenses, recognizing that a single mistake shouldn’t derail one’s future. Same-day consultations are available to address urgent DUI arrests without delay[4].

·         Personal Injury Law: Compassionate advocacy for individuals injured due to others’ negligence. Whether it’s a slip-and-fall or a serious incident, the firm negotiates with insurance companies and, if needed, litigates aggressively to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

·         Car Accident Claims: Focused attention on auto accident victims throughout the Kansas City metro. The firm assists clients in navigating insurance claims or lawsuits after car, truck, or motorcycle collisions, ensuring that those hurt on the road are not taken advantage of by insurers.

·         Traffic Law: Practical help with traffic tickets and driving-related offenses. From speeding tickets to license suspensions, The Hastings Law Firm guides clients through the legal process to minimize fines, points, and other consequences, recognizing that protecting one’s driving record can be essential for employment and daily life.

This comprehensive approach means Kansas Citians can turn to The Hastings Law Firm as a one-stop legal advocate for many of life’s challenges. Clients appreciate the convenience of a full-service firm that can handle both a criminal case and a related driver’s license hearing, for example, or assist with civil injury claims that arise from criminal circumstances. In every practice area, the firm’s philosophy remains consistent: provide “top-tier legal defense to those who need it most,” and do so with unwavering loyalty to the client’s best interests[5].

An Experienced Team of Dedicated Advocates

Molly Hastings, the firm’s founder and lead attorney, brings over 23 years of legal experience exclusively in criminal law[1]. She began her career in 2001 as a public defender, serving both rural and urban Missouri communities[6]. After 13 years of public service, Molly entered private practice in 2014 determined to continue fighting for justice on her own terms[6]. She has since tried nearly 100 felony jury trials with notable success – including achieving acquittals for charges like first-degree murder, rape, child molestation, armed assault, and manslaughter[7]. Colleagues and clients describe Molly as fearless and passionate in the courtroom, an attorney who “will defend ANYONE” with unwavering commitment[8]. She is regularly featured on local and national television for her role in some of Kansas City’s most serious criminal cases[9], reflecting her status as one of the area’s go-to trial lawyers.

But The Hastings Law Firm is more than just its founder. Molly has built a full team of legal professionals who reinforce the firm’s client-focused mission. Kimberly M. Pyles, the firm’s lead criminal investigator, joined in 2020 and brings over 20 years of investigative experience to the table[10]. A former investigator for the Missouri State Public Defender’s Office, Kim is adept at unearthing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and, as the firm puts it, “finding needles in haystacks” to strengthen each case[10]. By having an in-house investigator of Kim’s caliber, the firm ensures no stone is left unturned when preparing a defense – a key advantage that sets it apart from many solo practitioners. Additionally, the office staff provides friendly, bilingual assistance (English and Spanish) to make every client feel welcome and understood. Even “Betty,” the office’s beloved canine team member, plays a role: this friendly dog (featured prominently on the firm’s website) provides comfort and smiles to clients dealing with stressful situations, exemplifying the firm’s compassionate culture[11]. From top to bottom, the team operates with a shared legal philosophy: every client deserves empathy, open communication, and a tireless champion for their cause.

A Track Record of Success and Recognition

Results matter, and The Hastings Law Firm has a proven track record of victories that have cemented its reputation for excellence in legal advocacy. Over the course of her career, Molly Hastings has secured numerous not-guilty verdicts and case dismissals in serious felony trials[12]. She has won “acquittals in many murder, rape, child molestation, first-degree assault and manslaughter cases,” according to Missouri Lawyers Media[12]. These courtroom triumphs not only highlight Molly’s formidable litigation skills but also provide life-changing second chances for clients who had much at stake.

Such success has not gone unnoticed. Molly Hastings has received multiple prestigious awards recognizing her excellence in criminal defense. Among them are the Charles M. Shaw Award for Excellence in Trial Advocacy, the Lon O. Hocker Award (a statewide honor given to outstanding young trial lawyers), and the Atticus Finch Award from the Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers – an award named for the iconic fictional attorney that celebrates ethical and courageous advocacy[13]. She has also been named to the Super Lawyers list (top 5% of attorneys) for Missouri in 2022, 2023, and 2024, reflecting peer recognition of her professional achievement[14][15]. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Law Firms” has ranked The Hastings Law Firm among the top criminal defense firms in the Kansas City region (Tier 2 for Criminal Defense: General Practice)[16][17]. These accolades, while impressive, are simply a byproduct of the firm’s deeper commitment to excellence. As Molly notes, “I’m really grateful that my clients trust me to do this important work for them”[18] – a trust she has earned through consistent, outstanding results.

Of course, the praise that matters most comes from the firm’s satisfied clients. The Hastings Law Firm has garnered glowing testimonials and reviews from those it has represented. Former clients frequently commend the team’s responsiveness, expertise, and genuine care. On social media, the firm maintains a 100% recommendation rate – every reviewer has given positive feedback. One reviewer even called Molly “the best criminal defense lawyer in Western Missouri,” highlighting the respect she’s gained in the community. Such word-of-mouth reinforces what the case outcomes already show: clients know they can count on Hastings Law Firm when the stakes are high.

Community Commitment and a Client-Centered Approach

Beyond winning cases, The Hastings Law Firm has demonstrated a profound commitment to the Kansas City community. Molly Hastings in particular has never lost sight of her public-service roots. She strongly believes that “everybody gets a lawyer,” a core principle she carried from her public defender days into private practice[19]. In that spirit, Molly has spent over a decade volunteering her legal expertise to those who need it most. For years, she has visited a local charitable Serve & Lift Center once a month to provide free legal counseling to individuals who cannot afford an attorney – offering guidance on everything from expungements to handling minor disputes. This kind of hands-on community involvement has a direct impact on countless lives and underscores the firm’s broader commitment to justice outside the courtroom as well as inside it.

Clients of The Hastings Law Firm also feel the firm’s compassionate, client-first philosophy in every interaction. From the free initial consultation – where anyone with a legal issue can receive an honest case assessment at no cost – to flexible payment plans that make quality representation accessible, the firm strives to reduce barriers to legal help[20]. The team understands that facing a criminal charge or recovering from an accident can be one of the most stressful times in a person’s life. That’s why they prioritize clear communication, prompt updates, and a supportive atmosphere. Even small touches, like keeping coffee brewing in the lobby or having Betty the office dog greet clients with a wagging tail, help put people at ease. “I see my job as identifying the best possible aspect of a person or their situation and trying to persuade others to see them the same way,” Molly explains[21] – a reflection of the empathy that guides how the firm handles every case. This approach ensures clients not only receive top-notch legal advocacy, but also moral support and understanding during difficult moments.

In a crowded legal market, The Hastings Law Firm stands out through a combination of seasoned experience, personal dedication, and community values. It offers the aggressive representation of a big-city firm with the personal touch of a hometown practice. Whether defending someone’s freedom or fighting for an injury victim’s recovery, the firm operates with the mantra “the badder, the better,” embracing tough cases as opportunities to champion individual rights[22]. With free consultations, same-day appointments, and an open-door policy, help is always just a phone call away[23][24]. For the people of Kansas City, having a trusted advocate like The Hastings Law Firm in their corner can make all the difference. In the words of one client: “They gave me my life back.” And that, ultimately, is the legacy The Hastings Law Firm aims to build – one of hope, justice, and unwavering excellence in legal advocacy for all who need it.


[1] [2] [3] [4] [20] [22] [23]  Felony Lawyer Kansas City, MO | The Hastings Law Firm

https://www.hastingslawfirmonline.com/

[5] [24]  Criminal Defense Attorney | The Hastings Law Firm | Kansas City, MO

https://www.hastingslawfirmonline.com/criminal-defense

[6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11]  Attorney | Investigator | The Hastings Law Firm | Kansas City, MO

https://www.hastingslawfirmonline.com/attorney-investigator

[12] [13] [18] [19] [21] WJA 2024: Molly Hastings

https://molawyersmedia.com/2024/05/09/wja-2024-molly-hastings/

[14] [15] Top Rated Kansas City, MO Criminal Defense Attorney | Molly Hastings | Super Lawyers

https://profiles.superlawyers.com/missouri/kansas-city/lawyer/molly-hastings/0d422cd4-39ac-49a3-ae2a-114bee602aa3.html

[16] [17] The Hastings Law Firm in Kansas City-MO, MO, US

https://www.bestlawfirms.com/firms/the-hastings-law-firm/100475/US

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09.15.2025

Lu Lavender Massage: Overland Park’s Oasis of Healing and Relaxation

Lu Lavender Massage: Overland Park’s Oasis of Healing and RelaxationNestled in Overland Park, Kansas, Lu Lavender Massage has blossomed into a trusted wellness destination for the Kansas City metro community. This boutique massage therapy studio – founded by owner and lead practitioner Katrina McCrummen – is known for its inspired blend of massage and aromatherapy, using organic lavender oils and natural products to restore balance of mind and body[1]. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a soothing aroma of lavender and a calm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for relaxation. Clients come here not just for pain relief or pampering, but for an experience of healing, self-care, and rejuvenation in a space that feels like a serene spa sanctuary[2].Meet the Founder: Katrina McCrummen Katrina McCrummen is the heart and soul of Lu Lavender Massage. A certified massage therapist (WellSpring School of Allied Health, 2018) with a passion for holistic wellness, Katrina brings both technical skill and a healer’s intuition to her practice[3]. Her journey began with a fascination for essential oils and a desire for pure, chemical-free self-care products. Years ago, when a favorite paraben-free lotion line was discontinued, Katrina started crafting her own lotions and oil blends at home[4]. What began as a DIY project for friends and family quickly grew into a labor of love – from hand-making soaps and therapeutic oils to incorporating those oils into massage sessions. Today, Katrina creates all of the custom oil blends used in her treatments (with the sole exception of certain specialized techniques like the Raindrop therapy)[5]. This personal touch means every massage is imbued with the healing properties of high-quality, organic lavender and other botanicals, aligning with her philosophy that natural ingredients are key to wellness[6].Katrina’s approach to massage therapy is deeply holistic. She believes in caring for the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – and it shows in her gentle demeanor and attentive techniques. “To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear,” is a Buddha quote Katrina often echoes, emphasizing the link between physical well-being and mental clarity. As an ABMP member and licensed practitioner, she has built her reputation on professionalism, compassion, and an intuitive understanding of her clients’ needs. It’s not uncommon for Katrina to blend modalities or include a bit of energy work into a session if she feels it will benefit the client. She leads a growing team of therapists who share her vision – Lu Lavender now operates in three locations (Overland Park, Olathe, and Kansas City’s Brookside neighborhood) to serve clients across the metro[7][8]. Yet even as the business expands, Katrina remains hands-on, ensuring every client experiences the same personal care and healing intention that Lu Lavender Massage was founded upon.Holistic Therapies and Signature ServicesLu Lavender Massage offers a comprehensive menu of services designed to relieve tension, address pain, and promote overall wellness. Whether you’re a stressed parent, an athlete nursing sore muscles, or an expectant mother, there’s a therapy tailored for you. Key offerings include traditional relaxing massages as well as specialized techniques:·         Swedish Massage: A classic gentle massage ideal for relaxation and stress relief, using flowing strokes to ease muscle tension[6].·         Deep Tissue & Sports Massage: For those needing more intensive work on knots and chronic aches, integrating firmer pressure to target deep muscle layers and athletic injuries[9].·         Prenatal (Pregnancy) Massage: Nurturing massage for mothers-to-be, performed by therapists trained to ensure comfort and safety during all stages of pregnancy[10].·         Manual Lymphatic Drainage: A gentle, rhythmic technique that supports the lymphatic system – excellent for post-surgery care or reducing inflammation and detoxifying[11].·         Integrated Massage: A customized session blending multiple modalities (from Swedish to deep tissue, stretching, etc.) to suit individual needs[10].·         Hot Stone Therapy & Cupping: Available as add-ons or standalone treatments, warm basalt stones and silicone cups are used to melt away muscle tension and improve circulation[12][13].·         Reiki & Energy Healing: Katrina and her team offer Reiki, a Japanese energy-balancing practice, to calm the nervous system and align the body’s energy – often combined with massage for deeper healing[14]. Clients love the calming, almost meditative quality this brings to their sessions.·         Aromatherapy & Raindrop Technique: Every massage at Lu Lavender is an aromatherapy experience. The studio’s signature is the use of custom-blended essential oils – many formulated by Katrina herself – to enhance healing. The Raindrop technique, in particular, involves dropping specific essential oils along the spine and feathering them in with light strokes, intended to reduce inflammation and induce deep relaxation[15].Inside a tranquil therapy room at Lu Lavender Massage, where calming lavender hues, soft lighting, and soothing aromas create a relaxing sanctuary for clients.What truly sets Lu Lavender apart is this holistic touch. Sessions are highly personalized – therapists often begin by discussing your specific concerns, whether it’s anxiety, headaches, lower back pain, or just the need to unwind. Enhancements like a rosemary scalp massage or healing CBD salve can be added to elevate the experience. The team even offers wellness products and self-care items for sale (think handcrafted lavender soaps, CBD bath bombs, and energy-grounding jewelry) so clients can extend the relaxation at home[1]. As one client noted, the variety of massage techniques and therapeutic add-ons means “there’s something for everyone,” and treatments truly feel tailored to “individual needs and preferences”[16].A Calm, Healing AtmosphereFrom the moment you walk through the door, it’s clear that Lu Lavender Massage is more than a clinic – it’s a calming oasis. The decor is simple and soothing: soft purple and earth-tone accents, flickering candles, gentle music, and the subtle scent of lavender drifting through the air. This peaceful ambiance, combined with thoughtful amenities like cozy heated tables and a gender-neutral restroom, creates an inviting space where all clients feel comfortable and cared for[17][18]. The studio prides itself on being inclusive and accessible – it’s a woman-owned business that is LGBTQ+ friendly, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and free parking for ease of access[18]. Every detail, from the plush blankets to the complimentary hot tea in the waiting area, is geared toward helping you shed stress at the door.Though the flagship location is in Overland Park, the healing atmosphere remains consistent at Lu Lavender’s other locations as well. The Olathe studio features a similarly serene vibe (and even offers an infrared sauna option for added detox and relaxation)[19], while the Brookside location in Kansas City provides a convenient urban retreat for those closer to the city center[8]. No matter which location you visit, you’ll encounter the same core values: warmth, professionalism, and a genuine dedication to healing. Lu Lavender Massage has earned a sterling reputation in the community – boasting an average 4.96 out of 5 star rating based on over 130 client reviews at the Overland Park studio alone[20]. In feedback, 99% of clients praise the ambiance as being exceptionally relaxing, and 100% commend the professionalism of Katrina and her staff[21]. These metrics reflect what regular visitors already know: Lu Lavender offers not just a service, but a restorative experience that keeps people coming back.Client Experiences and TestimonialsThe true measure of Lu Lavender’s impact can be felt in the stories and smiles of its clients. Many have become loyal regulars, crediting Katrina’s healing hands with improvements in their physical and mental well-being. “Katrina is amazing. You don't realize how poor other massages are until you have a good one – and I won't go anywhere else now,” gushes one client, emphasizing the superior quality of care received[22]. Another long-term client, Michael, shares that visits to Lu Lavender have become “a regular part of my health and wellness regimen,” helping him manage chronic back pain and stress on an ongoing basis[23]. Such testimonies underscore the studio’s ethos that massage is not just a luxury treat, but an essential component of self-care.Clients consistently remark on how rejuvenated they feel after a session. It’s common to hear that someone “felt like I was floating when I left. I cannot wait to go back!”[24]. That floating feeling – a weightless, blissful calm – is exactly what Katrina aims for by the end of each massage. People also praise the intuitive and personalized approach: therapists listen attentively and adjust pressure or technique based on feedback, ensuring every ache or concern is addressed. “I enjoyed a wonderful Reiki session with Katrina. I love Katrina's calm and fun presence... I also really appreciated the insight she provided during the session,” one client recounts, highlighting how sessions can be emotionally centering as well as physically relaxing[25]. Another enthusiast calls her weekly Reiki-and-massage combo “the favorite part of my week,” noting the studio’s vibe is “clean, kind, professional and affordable”[26]. These personal experiences speak volumes – clients not only find relief from pain and tension, but also gain a sense of peace, clarity, and care that lingers long after they leave the massage table.Embracing Wellness and Self-Care At Lu Lavender Massage, the overarching message is that healing and self-care are for everyone. Katrina McCrummen has cultivated a practice where clients are encouraged to take that much-needed hour for themselves, to disconnect from life’s pressures and reconnect with their own well-being. Regular massage therapy can reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost circulation, and even bolster the immune system – benefits that Katrina is passionate about sharing with the community. She and her team go above and beyond to make these wellness benefits accessible: the studio accepts HSA (Health Savings Account) cards and even offers flexible package deals, so that clients don’t have to let insurance or budget constraints prevent them from getting the care they deserve[27]. It’s a reflection of Katrina’s belief that preventive care and stress relief are investments in one’s health and happiness.Warm, polished, and genuinely caring – the tone at Lu Lavender Massage feels like a friendly embrace. Therapists remember your name, celebrate your progress, and make you feel like family. Katrina’s own journey from a DIY aromatherapy enthusiast to a respected wellness entrepreneur shines through in every aspect of the business. She often says that her favorite moment is seeing clients emerge from a session with a tranquil smile, looking lighter and more centered than when they came in[28][29]. That, ultimately, is the goal of Lu Lavender Massage: to provide a safe, nurturing space where healing happens – where each person can unwind, heal their body, and uplift their spirit.If you’re in the Kansas City area looking for a massage experience that blends skill, soul, and the soothing scent of lavender, Lu Lavender Massage might just become your personal oasis. From Swedish and deep tissue massages to energy work and aromatherapy, Katrina McCrummen and her team are ready to welcome you with open arms and help you feel your best, inside and out[30]. After all, as Lu Lavender’s philosophy reminds us, taking time to relax is not an indulgence – “you want it, you deserve it”[31]. So go ahead: step into this lavender-infused haven and let your stress melt away. Your mind and body will thank you.Sources:1.      Lu Lavender Massage – Official Website and Blog[4][32]2.      MassageBook – Therapist Profile & Client Reviews for Katrina McCrummen[33][23]3.      Alignable Business Listing – Lu Lavender Massage (About and Recommendations)[1][26]4.      MapQuest Business Profile – Lu Lavender Massage, Kansas City[6][34]5.      “Wheree” Spa Review Summary – Lu Lavender Massage, Olathe[35][18][1] [9] [14] [25] [26] [27]  Lu Lavender Massage - Olathe, KS - Alignablehttps://www.alignable.com/olathe-ks/lu-lavender-massage[2] [16] [17] [18] [19] [35] Lu Lavender Massage - Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Updated September 2025 - Day Spas in Johnson, United States - Whereehttps://lu-lavender-massage.wheree.com/[3] [5] [10] [23] [28] [29] [33] Katrina McCrummen Massage Therapist in Olathe, KShttps://www.massagebook.com/Olathe~Massage~katrina-mccrummen[4] [15] [22] [31] [32] Home | Lu Lavender Massagehttps://www.lulavender.com[6] [24] [30] [34] Lu Lavender Massage, 5100 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112, US - MapQuesthttps://www.mapquest.com/us/missouri/lu-lavender-massage-430552553[7] [8] [11] [12] [13] Locations | Lu Lavender Massagehttps://www.lulavender.com/locations-vip?srsltid=AfmBOop6nQWRFOkNyWwviClY23XIfHyHjXcLhU2wXe6PO8HhHToB09ZE[20] [21] Book a massage with Lu Lavender Massage - Overland Park | Overland Park KS 66204https://www.massagebook.com/therapists/LuLavenderMassage/reviews

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