Municipal Court Judge

Overview

The City of Lawrence is seeking a respected, mission-driven attorney to serve as our next Municipal Court Judge—a highly visible leadership role at the intersection of law, community trust, and public service. This is an opportunity to step onto the bench in a community that values thoughtful justice, innovation in local government, and meaningful civic impact.

Lawrence is a vibrant, progressive city of approximately 101,000 residents and home to the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University. Our Municipal Court is a vital part of the City’s commitment to a safe, secure, and welcoming community. The Court supports the City’s Strategic Plan, including the Safe & Secure outcome area and our strong emphasis on Equity & Inclusion.

We are seeking a Judge who is passionate about procedural justice, fair and impartial decision-making, and ensuring the court system is accessible, dignified, and responsive to all who enter it.

Summary: The Municipal Court Judge serves as the chief judicial officer of the Municipal Court, presiding over criminal, traffic, zoning, and other City code matters arising within Lawrence city limits. This is more than a courtroom position—it is an opportunity to shape how justice is experienced every day by residents, visitors, defendants, victims, and staff.

The Judge provides legal and ethical leadership to the court, ensuring proceedings are fair, timely, and impartial while fostering professionalism, consistency, and public confidence in the judicial process. The role is central to cultivating a court culture grounded in respect, accountability, and service.

As a key leader within the City organization, the Judge works collaboratively with the City Manager, Municipal Court Manager, and City Attorney to support effective court operations, modern judicial practices, and the continuous improvement of court services.

Education & Licensure

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school
• Admission to the State of Kansas Bar

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of legal and trial experience before Kansas courts, including criminal trial experience
• Judicial or pro tem judicial experience preferred

• Resume
• Cover letter expressing your interest in the role
• Three professional references

The successful candidate must pass a background check, post-offer physical, and drug screening.

• Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance: Various dependent coverage levels available; FREE Well Care Clinic through LMH; other wellness benefits/perks
• Paid Time Off
  : 12 Vacation days, 12 Sick days accrued per year; 2 days Personal Leave, 10 Paid Holidays
• Retirement
  :
  Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS)