A former senior deputy attorney general will lead the transition team for Attorney General-elect Derek Schmidt.

Schmidt announced Friday that John Campbell, of Topeka, will serve as transition director as Schmidt prepares to assume the office of attorney general.  Schmidt was elected attorney general November 2 and will take office January 10, 2011.

"John Campbell's experience will be invaluable during this transition," Schmidt said.  "He brings strong professional credentials to our transition effort and will help ensure a seamless transition."

Campbell began service in the attorney general's office as head of litigation and antitrust during the administration of Bob Stephan.  He served as senior deputy attorney general from 1995 to 2003, and since then has served as general counsel at the Kansas Insurance Department.  He is an adjunct professor of law at Washburn University.

People wishing to communicate with the transition team may do so by e-mail at derekschmidt2010@gmail.com.