Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association

The Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association (KDMJA) is a professional organization composed of district magistrate judges in Kansas. Its primary aim is to facilitate cooperation, support, and professional development among its members, who play a crucial role in the state's judicial system.

Election of Officers

The association annually elects officers to lead its activities. Recent elections have highlighted the involvement of judges from various judicial districts across Kansas. For instance, in 2024, District Magistrate Judge Regine Thompson was re-elected as president for a second term. She serves in Republic County of the 12th Judicial District. Other officers elected include District Magistrate Judge Rebecca Stewart as first vice president, serving in Chautauqua County of the 14th Judicial District; District Magistrate Judge Ronald Sylvester as second vice president in Kingman County of the 30th Judicial District; District Magistrate Judge John McEntee as third vice president in Johnson County of the 10th Judicial District; District Magistrate Judge Shannon Schmidt as secretary in Smith County of the 17th Judicial District; and District Magistrate Judge Scott McPherson as treasurer in Harper County of the 30th Judicial District[1]. In earlier elections, such as in 2022, District Magistrate Judge Brendon Boone was elected president, serving in Gove County of the 23rd Judicial District[2].

Role of Magistrate Judges

Magistrate judges in Kansas handle a variety of cases, including, but not limited to, traffic offenses, small claims, and preliminary examinations for felony cases. Additionally, their jurisdiction can extend to specific areas such as wildlife, parks, and tourism violations[3]. The role of magistrate judges is similar to that of federal magistrate judges, who often conduct mediations, resolve disputes, and decide motions[4].

Structure and Membership

The association offers a framework for its members to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and advocate for the interests of magistrate judges across Kansas. Membership includes district magistrate judges from all judicial districts, providing a cohesive voice for these judicial officers. The organization supports professional development through conferences and networking opportunities.

Governance

The governance structure of the KDMJA is led by elected officers, which include a president, vice presidents, secretary, treasurer, and members at large. These positions are typically filled by judges who have been in service for several years, reflecting their experience and commitment to the judicial system. The election of officers highlights the leadership roles available within the association and demonstrates its active role in representing magistrate judges statewide.

[1] https://kscourts.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/News/2024-News-Releases/November-2024/Kansas-District-Magistrate-Judges-Association-elec [2] https://kscourts.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/News/2022-News-Releases/December-2022/Kansas-District-Magistrate-Judges-Association-elec [3] https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2015_16/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2111_01_0331.pdf [4] https://www.fedbar.org/minnesota-chapter/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2021/12/A-Guide-to-the-Federal-Magistrate-Judges-System.pdf [5] https://www.kscourts.org/Newsroom/News-Releases/News/2025-News-Releases/April/Loy-named-chief-judge-of-11th-Judicial-District