In the state of Kansas, law enforcement officers have the option to request an exemption from having their real estate records publicly available. This exemption is an important tool in maintaining privacy and safety for those who serve in high-risk professions. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the Kansas Law Enforcement Real Estate Record Exemption Form and provide step-by-step guidance on how to fill it out correctly.

The Purpose of the Exemption

The primary intention behind the real estate record exemption for law enforcement officers in Kansas is to protect their personal information from public scrutiny. This ensures the safety of both the officers and their families by preventing criminals from being able to access the officer's home address and other property information.

According to Kansas state law, the exemption is available to any member of "any municipal, county, or state police agency, sheriff's office, or other law enforcement agency who is actively engaged in the enforcement of the criminal laws of the state of Kansas, and whose duties include the direct investigation or prosecution of persons known or suspected to have committed crimes against the laws of the state of Kansas."

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the exemption, applicants must be employed by a law enforcement agency and meet any of the following criteria:

1. A commissioned police officer for a municipal, county, or state law enforcement agency.

2. A full-time county or district attorney who is actively engaged in the enforcement of criminal laws of Kansas and whose primary job duty involves the investigation or prosecution of individuals known or suspected of committing crimes.

3. Employees of municipal, county, or state law enforcement who work in a support capacity and can demonstrate a specific threat of harm.

In addition to the professional requirements, the applicant must also:

Be listed as the record owner of the real estate in question.

Have the real estate serve as their primary place of residence.

How to Fill Out the Kansas Law Enforcement Real Estate Record Exemption Form

Here's a guide on how to fill out the Kansas Law Enforcement Real Estate Record Exemption Form:

Step 1: Personal Information\

Provide your full name, date of birth, and social security number in the designated spaces.

Step 2: Employment Information\

Provide your current job title, the name of the law enforcement agency you are employed by, the phone number of your agency, and your primary job duties.

Step 3: Real Estate Information\

Indicate the type of real estate you are requesting an exemption for (residential or business) and provide the address of the property in question.

Step 4: Reason for Request\

State the specific threat that has prompted you to request an exemption. Include any necessary supporting documentation, such as police reports or protective orders.

Step 5: Signature\

Sign and date the form to certify that all the information provided is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

Filing the Application

Once the Kansas Law Enforcement Real Estate Record Exemption Form is completed, it should be mailed to:

Kansas Office of Judicial Administration\

301 SW 10th Avenue, Room 337\

Topeka, KS 66612-1507

Application Processing and Approval

The Office of Judicial Administration will review your application and notify you of its decision. If approved, the requested records will be exempt from public scrutiny indefinitely. Note that you may need to file a new application for other real estate properties or if there is a change in the ownership of the property. If denied, you will have the option to appeal the decision.

Appealing a Denied Application

In case your application is denied, you have 15 days from the date of the denial to appeal the decision to the chief judge of the judicial district where the real estate is located. The chief judge will review your application and make a final determination.

Final Thoughts

The Kansas Law Enforcement Real Estate Record Exemption is a valuable tool for those working in law enforcement who face potential threats to their safety and privacy. By understanding the eligibility requirements and the process of filling out and submitting the exemption form, officers and their families can enjoy greater peace of mind.

Remember, it is crucial to fill out the forms accurately and provide the necessary documentation to expedite the application process. Don't hesitate to seek assistance from your law enforcement agency or legal counsel if you have any questions or concerns about the exemption process.