On Friday, March 27, 2026, The Lawrence Times reported that Douglas County District Judge Sally Pokorny would retire effective April 10 after nearly 50 years of legal service, including more than a decade on the bench.
Pokorny, who was appointed in 2009 by then-Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, announced her decision in a news release, describing her time as a district court judge as “the greatest honor” of her professional career. A public farewell ceremony was scheduled for 3 p.m. on her final day at the historic Douglas County courthouse.
Before her judicial appointment, Pokorny built a career spanning both prosecution and defense, working in public service and private practice. She began as an assistant district attorney in Shawnee County and later practiced criminal and family law. She also became the first woman elected as county attorney in both Independence, Kansas, and Montgomery County.
During her tenure, Pokorny established the state’s first behavioral health court, a specialized program focused on individuals with serious mental health challenges. The court emphasizes treatment, accountability, and dignity, and has served as a model for similar initiatives across Kansas over the past decade.
In addition to her work on the bench, Pokorny was active in several legal organizations. She was involved with the Kansas Bar Association and the Douglas County Hugh Means Inn of Court, was a charter member of the Kansas Women Attorneys Association, and co-founded a networking group for women attorneys in Lawrence.
Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Eric Rosen praised Pokorny’s career in a statement, highlighting her commitment to fairness and her thoughtful, well-reasoned approach to the law.
Under Kansas law, a judicial nominating commission is responsible for reviewing applicants, conducting interviews, and submitting finalists to the governor, who will appoint a successor to fill the vacancy.
Source: The Lawrence Times
