Kao Lee is more than an attorney; she is a meticulous strategist, fierce courtroom advocate, and trusted guide for clients facing life-changing criminal charges. As Partner, Trial Attorney, and Lead Felony Attorney at Payne Law Firm, Kao has built her reputation on being impossible to catch off-guard, relentlessly organized, and unwavering in her commitment to securing the best outcomes for her clients.

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Kao focuses primarily on serious felony criminal offenses. Known for diving deep into the personal circumstances of each case, she studies how the law applies to her clients’ unique situations and crafts thoughtful, individualized strategies to defend their rights.

“What I enjoy most about practicing law is taking a unique set of circumstances, studying how the law applies, and helping individuals solve their problems.”

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Her sharp analytical mind and methodical approach have earned her the nickname “The Felony Whisperer.” Whether negotiating a favorable deal or litigating in court, Kao combines precision, creativity, and tireless advocacy, leaving an indelible impact on the people she represents.

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Despite the seriousness of her work, Kao is intentional about bringing joy to her day. “I take my clients’ cases seriously and work hard to achieve the best outcomes. Even so, I find it necessary to instill fun and joy into my days at the office.”

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Her warmth, humor, and ability to connect with clients on a human level foster trust and collaboration, turning daunting legal challenges into manageable journeys.

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Kao holds a degree from UC Davis and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas School of Law. Before joining Payne Law Firm, she served in the Fayetteville Prosecutor’s Office and the Washington County Public Defender’s Office, where she developed strong courtroom instincts and a deep understanding of both sides of the criminal justice system.

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Her professional memberships include the American Bar Association, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Washington County Bar Association. Fluent in Hmong, she is able to communicate and connect with clients across cultures and backgrounds. Kao considers one of her proudest accomplishments to be balancing her work as an attorney with being a mother of three.

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Born in Laos and raised in California, Kao now lives in Springdale, Arkansas, with her family. She enjoys reading, movies, hiking, and running. Her personal adventures have taken her around the world. She has traveled to Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, and Fiji, experiences that have shaped her perspective and strengthened her ability to advocate for clients from all walks of life.

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Kao’s approach to client representation begins with getting to know their stories. She believes every case is unique, and that true advocacy requires understanding the person behind the charges. She is motivated by helping people, learning new things, and thinking creatively to solve complex problems.

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What she enjoys most about Payne Law Firm is the people and the meaningful work they do every day. Whether guiding a client through the court system or crafting a nuanced defense in a serious felony case, Kao is compassionate, steady, and relentless in protecting her clients’ futures.

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If you are facing a serious criminal charge, you want Kao Lee in your corner: strategic, compassionate, and unflinchingly dedicated to fighting for your future.