TOPEKA, KANSAS (RFD News) — A new program in Kansas is aiming to address the shortage of attorneys in rural communities. The lack of local legal expertise has become more than an inconvenience for farmers, with some saying it can impact the long-term viability of their operations.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joined Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss the issue and what it means for those affected.
McEowen says one of the main contributing factors is a shift in how law schools train students, with less focus on rural practice and more emphasis on specialization. He also points to a growing number of attorneys retiring.
He says the need for legal support is especially important as farmers navigate issues like adjusted gross income requirements for programs, succession planning, and tax strategies.
“Congress continues to make the rules pretty complex. That takes a lot of specialized knowledge. There’s going to be a lot of land and operations that transfer hands in just the next few years,” McEowen explained. “So they need help dealing with all of those connected problems concerning that, and that’s a massive issue that’s out there.”
To help address the shortage, McEowen discussed a new incentive program designed to attract attorneys to rural Kansas. The program offers $3,000 in upfront support for law students, along with up to $100,000 in loan forgiveness over five years for those who commit to practicing in rural Kansas communities.
Looking ahead, McEowen noted that similar efforts could gain interest from lawmakers in other states where rural attorney shortages also strain agricultural businesses.
Participants must remain in those communities for the full five-year period to qualify. The program is set to take effect July 1.
READ MORE: Addressing the Rural Attorney & Tax Professional Shortage — Firm to Farm
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