Court of Appeals Research Attorney I (August 2026 Term Position)

Topeka, KS

Full Time

Entry Level

Position numbers:                             K0069810
K0215163

Location of Employment: Kansas Court of Appeals
                                                            Kansas Judicial Center
                                                            301 SW 10th Ave
                                                            Topeka, KS 66612

Position/Salary and Benefits: Court of Appeals Research Attorney I
Grade 42: starting salary $69,392.12
Eligible for step increases after six months: $71,131
Eligible for step increase after one year: $76,495

Kansas Judicial Branch Benefits:   State Employment Center - Benefits (ks.gov)

Job Duties: These positions involve highly responsible and confidential legal work for Chief Judge Sarah E. Warner and the judges of the Kansas Court of Appeals. A research attorney reviews the briefs and underlying case record, research questions of law presented, prepares prehearing memoranda based on the facts of the case and applicable law, aids the judges in their decision-making, and performs other tasks as assigned. The Research Attorneys hired for these positions will be part of Chief Judge Warner's Special Unit and will work on cases for multiple judges.

Employment Dates: At least two positions are open for a one-year term starting in August 2026 (extension of this term is possible).

Required Education and Licensing: The applicant must be enrolled in or a graduate of an accredited law school, with a GPA in the top one-third of their graduating class. Preference will be given to applicants who are licensed to practice law in Kansas OR have a Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) result transferable to Kansas per Supreme Court Rule 717 OR who have applied to sit for the July 2026 Kansas bar exam and are eligible to obtain a temporary permit to practice law in Kansas. Before employment may begin, applicants must (1) apply to take the Kansas bar exam or apply to transfer their UBE score to Kansas, (2) submit proof they successfully completed the MPRE and the character and fitness investigation in Kansas, and (3) obtain a Kansas temporary permit to practice law.

Required Abilities: Exercise sound judgment in difficult and confidential situations. Recognize and analyze relevant facts, evidence, issues, and applicable law in complex cases. Write clearly, thoroughly, and concisely in an organized manner. Demonstrate familiarity with Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and electronic legal research methods.

Application Information: To apply, submit a (1) cover letter, (2) resume, (3) law school transcript (may be unofficial), (4) list of references, and (5) writing sample. Preference will be given to applications received by February 16, 2026, but the positions will remain open until filled.

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Court of Appeals Research Attorney I (August 2026 Term Position)

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