Municipal Court Judge

If you are a current City of Olathe employee, please click this link to apply through your Workday account. Employment Type Full Time Job Summary The City of Olathe, Kansas, is seeking a highly qualified legal professional to serve as a Full-Time Municipal Court Judge, responsible for presiding over Municipal Court proceedings along with one other full-time Municipal Court Judge. The Municipal Court Judges, together, help ensure the fair, impartial, and effective administration of justice in Olathe Municipal Court. This opportunity is well-suited for an experienced criminal trial attorney or current or former judge with strong courtroom presence, sound legal judgment, and a demonstrated commitment to public service. The successful candidate will bring credibility, professionalism, and the ability to manage proceedings with fairness, efficiency, and respect for all parties appearing before the Court. The City is looking for someone who takes a holistic view of each individual, not just the offense, and who can balance accountability with opportunities for rehabilitation by meeting people where they are. At the City of Olathe, we are committed to Setting the Standard for Excellence in Public Service for both our residents and employees. That commitment is reflected in our Vision, Values, and Mission and in an organizational culture grounded in integrity, learning, customer service, and continuous improvement. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the region, Olathe offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a community that values high-quality service. Minimum Qualifications Juris Doctor from an accredited law school Licensed to practice law and registered with the Clerk of the Kansas Supreme Court At least five years of experience practicing law Experience in Kansas municipal courts Preferred Qualifications Experience serving as a municipal judge Significant courtroom experience, including hearings, bench trials, motion practice, and other proceedings Strong and impartial judicial temperament, communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with attorneys, court staff, law enforcement, and City leadership Why Work at the City of Olathe Values driven culture that emphasizes teamwork, professional development, and a focus on quality of life for the public and employees Purpose filled work and opportunities to make a difference in the Olathe community Talented work teams with high levels of integrity and professionalism Compensation and Benefits Both Municipal Court Judges are directly employed by the Olathe City Council under the terms of a contract and eligible for the City's employee benefits package, including: Healthcare insurance An onsite clinic available to employees and dependents covered under the City's medical plan, free of charge, including physical therapy, behavioral health, and primary/acute medical care Participation in KPERS retirement system The City of Olathe offers a competitive salary, with pay based on qualifications. Anticipated salary range: $110,000 to $160,000. Application Process Interested candidates should apply through the City of Olathe's website. Questions may be directed to Leslie Fortney, HR Officer. First review of applications will begin in early May. Residency in the City of Olathe, KS will be required within one year of employment. The City of Olathe is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, race, religion, color, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, marital status, familial status, military status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Applicants selected as finalists for this position will be subject to a comprehensive background check. For more details, review the full job details and requirements below. The Municipal Court Judge is an appointed employee responsible for presiding over Municipal Court proceedings. The Municipal Court Judge serves with one other full-time Municipal Court Judge who is also appointed by and reports to the City Council. The Municipal Court Judges are contract employees of the City of Olathe and are among 4 positions at the City of Olathe reporting directly to the City Council (including the City Manager and City Auditor). Key Responsibilities Conducts courtroom proceedings of persons charged with violating municipal ordinances including Arraignments, Pleas, Trials, Sentencings, Diversion and Probation Revocations, House Arrest Violations and Expungements. Rules on motions filed such as motions to dismiss or suppress evidence, motions to set aside warrants or continue cases. Appoints counsel for indigent persons. Reviews case files for bond forfeitures and bench warrants; evaluates, inspects, and approves warrants. Develops and presents data