Judge Paul W. Burmaster currently serves as the 2nd most senior judge in the Family Division of the 10th Judicial District Court in Johnson County, Kansas. Burmaster has enjoyed a diverse career in the legal profession. Since assuming the bench in July 2019, his role as a key decision-maker in divorce, parentage, and protection order cases has underscored his commitment to children and families. Before taking the bench, Judge Burmaster had a successful private practice, where he demonstrated versatility across criminal, civil, and juvenile cases since 1994. Known for his courtroom acumen, Burmaster has tackled an array of criminal matters, from DUI to First Degree Murder, amassing a substantial 40+ career jury trials and countless bench trials. His public service journey began in 1991 as an Assistant City Prosecutor in Wichita, Kansas. He later worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the 29th Judicial District, Wyandotte County, Kansas, from 1992 to 1994. During this time, he managed a robust caseload of adult criminal felony charges. Judge Burmaster later gained invaluable experience as an Assistant City Prosecutor in Kansas City, Missouri. There, he handled a multitude of cases, negotiated plea deals, and conducted trials, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining public safety and upholding the law. Beyond his legal duties, Judge Burmaster is an active member of various legal associations, including the Johnson County Family Law Inn of Court, the Johnson County Bar Association, the Johnson County Bar Foundation, the Kansas Bar Association, and the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association. His commitment to community service is evidenced by his past membership in the Community Leadership Development Council for the Kansas Children's Service League and his membership of the Johnson County Bar Foundation. A graduate of the University of Kansas School of Law (Juris Doctorate, 1990) and the University of Kansas School of Journalism (Bachelor of Science, 1987), Judge Burmaster is pleased and proud to serve the people of Johnson County, Kansas.
