District Judge David Debenham to sit with Kansas Supreme Court December 11

TOPEKA—District Judge David Debenham of the 3rd Judicial District has been appointed to sit with the Kansas Supreme Court to hear one case on the court's December 11 docket. After hearing the case, Debenham will join Supreme Court justices in their deliberations and decision drafting.

“I am pleased that District Judge Debenham is taking time from his duties in the 3rd Judicial District to sit with the Supreme Court,” said Chief Justice Lawton Nuss. “It's a great help to our court, and we look forward to his contributions in deliberating and eventually deciding this case.”

Debenham was appointed to the bench in 2008. He hears cases in the 3rd Judicial District, which is composed of Shawnee County.

“Having had the opportunity of appearing before the Kansas Supreme Court as an attorney, it is a privilege to be asked to sit with our current Supreme Court. I am both humbled and honored with this assignment,” Debenham said.

A native of Abilene, Debenham is a graduate of Bethany College and Washburn University School of Law. He practiced law for 28 years with governmental agencies. As a prosecuting attorney, he held positions of deputy attorney general and deputy district attorney.

All Supreme Court oral arguments are webcast live through the Watch Supreme Court Live! link of the Kansas judicial branch website at www.kscourts.org.

The case Debenham will hear is the fifth one scheduled on the 9 a.m. docket December 11:

Case No. 119,909: In the Matter of Timothy J. Grillot, Respondent

Original Proceeding Related to Attorney Discipline: (Indefinite suspension) The Kansas Supreme Court admitted Grillot to the practice of law in September 1982. This complaint arose out of Grillot's inadequate representation of an individual on appeal and his improper actions as administrator of an estate. A majority of the hearing panel recommends indefinite suspension of his law license. A concurring and dissenting member of the hearing panel recommends a two-year suspension because of extenuating circumstances. The disciplinary administrator recommends disbarment. Counsel for Grillot recommends a one-year suspension.