Practicing law in Kansas made easier for military spouses

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court is making it easier for the spouses of military members to temporarily practice law in Kansas.

The Adjutant General's Department said in a statement released Monday that a newly adopted rule lessens licensing requirements. If the spouses have passed the bar in another state or the District of Columbia, they can be admitted to practice law in Kansas without taking the state-administered uniform bar exam. To qualify, the attorneys' spouses must currently be stationed in Kansas.

"Family members often make personal and professional sacrifices to support the military service of their spouse," Gov. Sam Brownback said in a written statement. "Kansans value the service of the military and this rule is one way we can continue to support our military and their families."

The rule had the support of several military leaders in the state, including Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general. He said it allowed the "pool of talented attorneys who hold a law license in another state to use those skills here in Kansas."

The Military Spouse JD Network said 18 other states and the U.S. Virgin Islands have military spouse attorney licensing accommodations and efforts are underway in 18 other states to make changes.

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