Leah B. Burkhead

With over 35 years of experience dedicated exclusively to workers’ compensation law in Kansas and Missouri, Leah Burkhead has built her career advocating for injured workers with skill, compassion, and relentless preparation. A lifelong Kansas Citian, Leah earned her undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Missouri in 1987 and went on to graduate from the University of Kansas School of Law in 1990.

She began her legal journey at a defense firm representing insurance companies, but it quickly became clear that her roots—and her heart—were elsewhere. Raised in a proud union family and the granddaughter of a pipefitter who helped put her through law school, Leah knew her calling was to stand beside working people, not against them.

In 1993, Leah joined her law partner Keith Mark in founding Mark & Burkhead, with a clear mission: protect and champion injured workers. She takes special pride in representing women in the workforce, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected in a system that hasn’t always worked in their favor.

Leah is known for being compassionate with her clients, persuasive in negotiation, and strategic in the courtroom. She is a clear and effective communicator—keeping clients informed, empowered, and confident through every step of the process. Her unparalleled commitment to maximizing the benefits her clients receive through the workers’ compensation system has made her a trusted advocate for injured workers across the region.

Judges and peers alike have described Leah as one of the most respected and prepared attorneys they encounter—highly regarded for her command of the law, consistent professionalism, and principled approach to advocacy.

Leah brings unmatched dedication and passion to every case she handles. Advocacy isn’t just her job—it’s her legacy.

Leah has been named a Super Lawyer for 16 years and, since 2021, has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers. She also holds an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell—the highest possible rating for legal ability and ethical standards, awarded based on peer review by judges and fellow attorneys.