Research Attorney I (Chief Judge Warner) - Kansas Court of Appeals

Topeka, KS

Full Time

Entry Level

Position number:   K0075036

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 increase after six months: $71,131.52
Eligible for step increase after one year: $76,495.20

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

Job Duties: This position involves highly responsible and confidential legal work for Chief Judge Sarah E. Warner of the Kansas Court of Appeals. A research attorney reviews the briefs and underlying case record, researches questions of law presented, prepares prehearing memoranda based on the facts of the case and applicable law, aids the judge in her decision-making, and performs other tasks as assigned by the judge. A research attorney working in the chambers of the chief judge may be asked to engage in other legal research and provide legal guidance regarding the running of the Court of Appeals.

Employment Dates: A firm two-year term, from August 10, 2026, through August 4, 2028.

Required Education: The applicant must graduate from an accredited law school, with a GPA in the top quarter of their graduating class. Preference will be given to applicants who are licensed to practice law in Kansas 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 OR have a Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) result transferrable to Kansas per Supreme Court Rule 717. 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.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, law school transcript showing grades for at least four semesters of coursework (may be unofficial), references, writing sample, and official Judicial Branch application to Karla Keys at [email protected]. Interviews are anticipated to begin in July 2025. Position is open until filled.

The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures your right to reasonable accommodations during the employment process. A request for accommodation will not affect your opportunities for employment with the Judicial Branch. If you wish to request an ADA accommodation, please contact [email protected] or by TDD through the Kansas Relay Center at 800-766-3777 or 711.

THE KANSAS JUDICIAL BRANCH IS AN EEO/AA/ADA EMPLOYER

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Research Attorney I (Chief Judge Warner) - Kansas Court of Appeals

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