Legal Division
The legal division provides legal services and support to the Kansas Department of Agriculture staff so the agency may satisfy its regulatory responsibilities. Drafting and reviewing contracts, rules and regulations, and representing the department in legal proceedings in state and federal courts and before other agencies are regular duties of the section. Lawyers work with the department's programs to meet statutory obligations and to achieve the expectation of Kansas citizens regarding food safety, consumer and environmental protection and water resource management.
Enforcement proceedings to obtain compliance with federal and state laws and regulations are necessary sometimes. These may include summary orders, assessing civil penalties, the suspension or revocation of a license or certification, and court action. If you receive a legal notice from the department you should read it carefully to determine your legal rights and what action you wish to take. In most cases, an informal settlement conference may be requested.
Department lawyers do not provide legal services to private citizens. If you have a question about the law you should talk to your attorney or contact the Kansas Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service, 1-800-928-3111.