Joan M. Lowdon

Professional career

• In January 2023, the Kansas Supreme Court appointed her as chief judge, succeeding David King, who retired that month
• The Chief Judge of Kansas’ 1st Judicial District, serving Division 5 for Atchison and Leavenworth counties, appointed in 2020 and named chief judge in 2023
• Deputy County Attorney (2017) She handled felony and misdemeanor cases, with a specialization in prosecuting cases involving child victims
• Chief Judge of the 1st Judicial District Court of Kansas, covering Atchison and Leavenworth counties

Education

Additional information

• Appointed by Governor Laura J. Kelly on September 23, 2020 to fill a vacancy created by the retirement of Hon.
• Before joining the bench, Lowdon was employed at the Leavenworth County Attorney’s Office:.
• Michael Gibbens.
• As chief judge, she has general supervisory authority over the district’s administrative and clerical functions and oversees case assignments
• Lowdon has been active in the Leavenworth County Bar Association and served on the Board of Directors for the Court Appointed Special Advocates of the 1st Judicial District
• She has emphasized continuity, leadership, and service to the people of Atchison and Leavenworth counties