About Stephen
Stephen McAllister is a attorney and academic based in Lawrence, Kansas. His educational journey began at the University of Kansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1985. He continued his studies at the same institution, obtaining his Juris Doctor in 1988. McAllister is admitted to practice law in three jurisdictions: Illinois, Kansas, and the District of Columbia. This diverse legal background gave him a unique perspective on various legal issues. After completing his law degree, McAllister gained inexperience as a law clerk for Judge Richard Posner of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
This role provided him with insights into appellate court procedures and judicial decision-making. Following this, he further developed his skills by clerking for U.S. Supreme Court Justices Byron White and Clarence Thomas. These prestigious clerkships laid the foundation for a distinguished career in both law and academia. In 1993, McAllister joined the University of Kansas School of Law as a professor, where he has made significant contributions to legal education. His tenure as dean from 2000 to 2005 was marked by efforts to enhance the school's academic programs and community engagement. From 2007 to 2018, he served as the Solicitor General of Kansas, representing the state in high-profile legal matters.
This role allowed him to engage with complex legal issues and advocate for the interests of Kansas residents. In 2018, McAllister's career took another significant turn when President Donald Trump nominated him as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas. He served in this capacity until February 2021, overseeing federal prosecutions and legal matters within the district. His experience in this role further solidified his reputation as a skilled litigator and advocate for justice. In June 2021, McAllister joined Dentons' Kansas City office as counsel, where he has since contributed to enhancing their litigation practice. He has argued nine cases before the U.S.
Supreme Court, showcasing his expertise in constitutional and federal civil rights law. At the University of Kansas, he continues to teach these subjects, shaping the next generation of legal minds. McAllister has been recognized with several awards, including the Dean Frederick J — Moreau Award, the W.T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence, and the Steeples Award for Service to Kansans, reflecting his commitment to both legal excellence and community service.
