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The Third Branch is a quarterly publication of the Director of State Courts Office, providing news of interest to the Wisconsin Court System. Comments and suggestions may be directed to Tom Sheehan.
Current issue - Spring 2008
Use the links below to navigate the current issue or view the PDF version  (printable version)
Featured stories
Elections, appointments bring new judges
The April 1 election resulted in one new Supreme Court justice and nine new circuit court judges. Five of the new judges will fill newly created branches; 33 judges will remain on the bench after winning election or re-election. Gov. Doyle has also appointed a new judge to fill a vacancy in Brown County.
Courts help set scene for Public Enemies
Filming of the upcoming movie Public Enemies, starring Johnny Depp, took place in the Lafayette County Courthouse and the Capitol building. Court staff at both locations were able to watch the filming, and a few staff members in Lafayette County had close-up views as extras.
Director's column: Planning legislative agenda
The Director of State Courts Office is planning ahead for the next legislative session. Even minor changes in the court system can have an impact on how well it runs.
Pro se judicial education programs underway
Four Wisconsin judges and two court commissioners are sharing what they learned at a national conference about handling pro se cases. They have been sharing their model materials at judicial education and court commissioner programs. Additional education and training opportunities are also planned.
Awards:
Abrahamson recognized for dedication to Mock Trial Program
Freedom of Information Council honors Supreme Court
CCAP receives outstanding service award
Kirk named ABOTA Judge of the Year
Fiedler honored for victim advocacy
Brescoll receives honorable mention
Judge Barland recognized for leadership in restorative justice
Judge Foster receives Kay Twerion Award
Jack Aulik Award honors its namesake
The Wisconsin Association of Treatment Court Professionals named the late Judge John F. "Jack" Aulik as the first recipient of the award named for him.
Center for Jury Studies reports to clerks
Circuit court clerks who attended the February Institute heard the results of the national survey conducted by the National Center for State Courts.
Dodge County Judge plays game of 'Life'
Chief Judge John R. Storck, Dodge County Circuit Court, tried a new approach this year when addressing students on American Legion Student Government Day. Instead of hosting a mock trial, Stock wanted to give the students an idea of what happens on a daily basis in the courthouse.
Zappen shares love of history, woodworking
Wood County Circuit Court Judge Edward F. Zappen has built a replica of the desk Thomas Jefferson used while writing the Declaration of Independence. Zappen, who is knowledgeable about both woodworking and American history, has visited several libraries around the state to display his desk.
Library initiative helps pro se litigants
The Third Judicial District conducted workshops in Waukesha and Horicon to provide information and resources for librarians who assists self-represented litigants.
Effective Justice Strategies taking hold
The JEHT Foundation grant and state budget approval has allowed the court system to further promote its effective justice strategies program. Recently, the Tenth Judicial District reached two important milestones in its efforts.
Wisconsin Connects
Second District Court Administrator Kerry Connelly attended a workshop in Ireland sponsored by the International Association for Court Administrators.
WSLL celebrates National Library Week
In celebration of National Library Week, the WSLL transformed the library into a jungle and hosted a court staff coffee break, which featured games, treats, and the unveiling of its new READ poster and bookmark.
Leadership: Focus on Local Court Rules: Promoting Peace in the Legal Family
Two committees of lawyers and judges have examined the use of local court rules.
Judge Wasielewski reveals mucical talent
Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Frances T. Wasielewski has been sharing his musical talent with the public by giving piano performances. Wasielewski has played and studied the piano on and off most of his life.
Mock trial program celebrates 25 years
The Wisconsin Mock Trial Program celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year. Rhinelander High School took home this year's first place title at the state championship held in Madison.
CCIP funding allows for child welfare training
Several training opportunities on child-related court issues are being offered, thanks to funding grants awarded to the Children's Court Improvement Program (CCIP).
New pro se name-change forms approved
The Records management Committee has approved new forms for use by self-represented litigants. These forms are another step in the process of ensuring that self-represented litigants have access to the resources they need.
Wisconsin teachers learn about justice
Twenty-eight middle school and high school teachers attended this year's Justice Teaching Institute, to learn new methods for presenting the judicial system to their students.
Photo: Milwaukee St. Patrick's day parade
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