Christel Marquardt: A Career in the Kansas Judiciary
The Kansas legal landscape has been shaped by dedicated professionals who transition from the classroom to the courtroom. Among these figures is Christel E. Marquardt, a seasoned jurist who has served as a judge on the Kansas Court of Appeals since 1995. Her journey from an educator to a high-ranking judicial officer reflects a diverse professional evolution within the state of Kansas.
Key Facts
- Current Role: Judge on the Kansas Court of Appeals since 1995.
- Legal Education: Juris Doctor from Washburn University School of Law (1974).
- Undergraduate Degree: B.S. in education from Missouri Western State College.
- Professional Background: Former school teacher and private practice attorney.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois.
Educational Foundation and Early Career
Before entering the legal profession, Marquardt focused on education. She earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in education from Missouri Western State College. Following her graduation, she began her professional life as a school teacher in Wisconsin, establishing a foundation in public service and instruction.
Seeking to expand her professional scope, she pursued a legal education at the Washburn University School of Law. She successfully earned her Juris Doctor (the professional degree required to practice law in the United States) in 1974.
Professional Legal Practice
Upon completing her law degree, Marquardt entered private practice, spending nearly two decades refining her expertise across several prominent firms. In 1974, she joined the Topeka-based firm Cosgrove, Webb & Oman. By 1986, she transitioned to Palmer, Marquardt & Snyder, and later joined the Kansas City firm Levy & Craig, P.C. in 1991.
In 1994, Marquardt embarked on an entrepreneurial venture by forming Marquardt & Associates, L.L.C., a firm she established alongside her son. She continued her practice at this firm until her transition to the judiciary.
Judicial Appointment and Personal Life
In 1995, Marquardt was appointed to the Kansas Court of Appeals, where she has served for nearly three decades. This role involves reviewing decisions from lower courts to ensure the law was applied correctly.
Beyond her professional achievements, Marquardt is a mother to three adult sons and a grandmother to six grandchildren.
| Period/Year | Role or Milestone | Organization/Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-1974 | Teacher | Schools in Wisconsin |
| 1974 | Juris Doctor | Washburn University School of Law |
| 1974 – 1986 | Attorney | Cosgrove, Webb & Oman |
| 1986 – 1991 | Attorney | Palmer, Marquardt & Snyder |
| 1991 – 1994 | Attorney | Levy & Craig, P.C. |
| 1994 – 1995 | Partner/Founder | Marquardt & Associates, L.L.C. |
| 1995 – Present | Judge | Kansas Court of Appeals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Christel Marquardt born?
Christel Marquardt was born in Chicago, Illinois.
What is Christel Marquardt's current judicial role?
She has served as a judge on the Kansas Court of Appeals since 1995.
Where did Judge Marquardt receive her legal training?
She earned her Juris Doctor from the Washburn University School of Law in 1974.
Did Christel Marquardt work in fields other than law?
Yes, prior to her legal career, she held a B.S. in education and worked as a school teacher in Wisconsin.
Which law firms was she associated with before becoming a judge?
She practiced at Cosgrove, Webb & Oman; Palmer, Marquardt & Snyder; Levy & Craig, P.C.; and her own firm, Marquardt & Associates, L.L.C.