Supreme Court Research Attorney I – Justice Walsh Chambers

Location: Kansas Supreme Court, Kansas Judicial Center, 301 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS (hybrid onsite/remote work possibility).

About the role

This position involves highly responsible confidential legal work for the Hon. Larkin Walsh of the Kansas Supreme Court. A research attorney reviews the briefs and underlying case record, conducts in-depth research on the questions of law presented, prepares prehearing memoranda for the Court based on the facts of the case and applicable law, serves as trusted counsel, and performs other tasks as assigned by the justice. The incumbent serves at the pleasure of the appointing justice.

This is a 1-year term position with the possibility of extension, beginning no later than August 1, 2027, through July 31, 2028.

Responsibilities

• Review briefs and underlying case records
• Conduct in-depth legal research on questions of law presented
• Prepare prehearing memoranda for the Court based on facts and applicable law
• Serve as trusted counsel to the justice
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the justice

Requirements

Upon beginning employment, the candidate must:

• Have graduated from an ABA accredited law school
• Be eligible to practice law in Kansas
• Possess superior research and writing skills, strong analytical ability, a positive attitude, and insatiable curiosity
• Demonstrate discretion, good judgment, initiative, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
• Be proficient in Microsoft Word and computer-assisted legal research, including Westlaw

Applicants who have not yet passed the Kansas Bar or received a qualifying UBE must, before employment:

• Apply to take the Kansas Bar Exam or apply to transfer their UBE score to Kansas
• Submit proof of successful completion of the MPRE and the character and fitness evaluation in Kansas
• Obtain a Kansas temporary permit to practice law

Qualifications

• Strong academic credentials (top third of class preferred)
• Law Review or other noteworthy journal experience
• Prior service as a judicial law clerk or law firm associate

Pay

• $73,525.00 starting salary
• $75,406.14 with successful completion of 6 months
• $81,097.05 with successful completion of 12 months

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package available through the Kansas Judicial Branch. For details, visit State Employment Center - Benefits.