Court Forms & Access Officer - Office of Judicial Administration

Overview

This position is located at the Kansas Judicial Center in Topeka, KS, within the Department of Access to Justice Initiatives. The organization is seeking a Court Forms & Access Officer (grade 51) to lead the evolution of statewide court forms, self-help publications, and digital legal content. The role focuses on improving public understanding of legal processes through plain language, user-led design, and document automation.

Remote work is available for qualified candidates; the selected candidate must be able to report to the Topeka office with notice.

Responsibilities

Plain-Language Strategy & Legal Design

• Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of statewide court forms and public-facing legal materials.
• Facilitate a multi-tiered review framework, including collaborative drafting, user testing, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with operational teams to ensure court forms, publications, and digital resources adhere to digital accessibility (WCAG/ADA) and plain-language standards.

Technology & Innovation

• Support the implementation of document automation and digital workflow solutions to streamline court filings and simplify procedures for self-represented litigants.
• Track form changes to ensure timely, systemwide updates.

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead cross-functional teams and collaborate with judges, court clerks, legal aid partners, and advisory committees to build consensus on standardized forms and policies.
• Serve as a primary subject-matter expert and consultant for judicial officers, staff, and court self-help centers.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and external partnerships supporting publication and access to justice initiatives.

Research, Policy & Capacity Building

• Conduct legal analysis on statutory and rule changes affecting form development.
• Draft, edit, and review rules, policy manuals, user guides, and operational guidelines.
• Design and facilitate training programs for judges, court managers, and court staff on updated forms and access-based best practices.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) or other relevant advanced degree from an accredited institution.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in court administration, legal technology, legal services, or a related field.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with Kansas statutes, court rules, and policies.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of direct legal practice, judicial clerkship, or legal research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in plain language drafting, legal document design, or user experience testing.
• Familiarity with document automation platforms and digital accessibility compliance.
• Experience supporting or working within legal self-help centers or public-interest legal initiatives.
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams toward shared goals.

Compensation & Benefits

• Grade 51 Salary: $87,326.06 annually
• Adjustment upon successful completion of:
  • 6 months: $89,431.04
  • 1 year: $96,238.87

Benefits are available through the State Employment Center.

Location

• Kansas Judicial Center, Topeka, KS
• Remote work available for qualified candidates; selected candidate must be able to report to the Topeka office with notice.

Application Information

• Applications will be accepted until: Open until filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The organization is an EEO/AA employer.