Kansas Constitution Article Three - Judicial
Kansas Constitution – Article 3: Judicial
Article 3 of the Kansas Constitution establishes the structure, powers, and functions of the judicial branch of the state government. Below is a summarized version of the key provisions:
Section 1: Judicial Power
The judicial power of the state is vested in:
One supreme court,
District courts, and
Other courts as may be provided by law.
Section 2: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court consists of seven justices.
One justice is designated as chief justice (based on seniority, unless otherwise provided by law).
The Supreme Court has general administrative authority over all Kansas courts.
Section 3: Jurisdiction
The Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in proceedings related to:
Mandamus,
Habeas corpus, and
Other specified matters.
It has appellate jurisdiction as may be provided by law.
Section 4: District Courts
District courts have jurisdiction in all civil and criminal cases, and other jurisdiction as provided by law.
The state is divided into judicial districts as defined by law.
Judges of the district courts are selected as provided by law.
Section 5: Selection and Tenure of Judges
Supreme Court justices are selected through merit-based nomination and retention elections.
After appointment, a justice serves for a term and may be retained by voters in a general election.
The method of selection for district court judges can vary by district: either election or merit selection and retention, depending on the local preference and legislation.
Section 6: Qualifications of Justices and Judges
Must be residents of Kansas,
Must have at least ten years of experience as a lawyer, judge, or full-time law teacher at an accredited law school.
Section 7: Removal, Discipline, and Retirement
Judges may be removed for:
Willful misconduct,
Failure to perform duties,
Habitual intemperance,
Conviction of a felony.
A Commission on Judicial Qualifications is established to investigate complaints and recommend action.
Mandatory retirement age for judges is set by law.
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