Third Branch eNews

Hon. Kendall Kelley

Brown County Circuit Court

Judge Kendall M. Kelley announced he is resigning from Brown County Circuit Court, effective August 2, 2024. Kelley was appointed to the bench by Gov. Scott McCallum in 2002. He ran and was elected to a full term in 2003. He was re-elected in 2009, 2015, and 2021.

His distinguished career includes serving as a circuit court judge for more than 20 years. In addition to his time on the bench, Kelley co-founded the Northeast Wisconsin Veteran’s Treatment Court, demonstrating his commitment to supporting local veterans through the judicial process. His long tenure and community contributions have significantly impacted the Brown County legal landscape.

Applications for those interested in succeeding Kelley were open through the end July. The appointee will serve until July 31, 2025.

Hon. Lynn M. Rider

Crawford County Circuit Court

After eight years on the Crawford County Circuit Court bench, Judge Lynn M. Rider said she steps away from the bench with the pride of knowing that those who appeared before her were treated fairly and respectfully.

Elected to the bench in 2016, Rider has seen firsthand the evolving challenges in her county. She noted the profound impact of the methamphetamine crisis, which extends beyond criminal cases to affect family, civil, and juvenile cases. Reflecting on her career, she also highlighted the transformative role of technology, especially Zoom.

“It is sometimes a blessing and sometimes a curse,” she said. “But given the small number of attorneys we have in our rural county, it makes it easier for attorneys from outside of the area to handle cases and saves time and travel costs.”

Rider said she has relished the opportunity to hear cases involving interesting legal issues argued by skilled attorneys. As she steps into retirement, she plans to continue contributing to the legal field part-time through guardian ad litem work, estate planning, and mediation. She says she looks forward to traveling and increasing her volunteer efforts within her community.

Hon. Josann Reynolds

Dane County Circuit Court

Dane County Circuit Judge Josann Reynolds has officially retired, concluding nearly ten years of service on the bench.

In a letter to Governor Tony Evers, Reynolds described her decision to retire as “extremely difficult,” noting that serving as a trial judge had been her ambition since middle school forensics. “I am honored and humbled to have been given the opportunity to fulfill my childhood dream,” she said. “I have worked hard for the people of the State of Wisconsin and the residents of Dane County. I depart filled with gratitude for entrusting me with this position and for the opportunity to learn something new every day.”

During her time in the criminal rotation, her branch team helped reduce the caseload from over 1500 open criminal cases to 320. After she moved out of the criminal rotation, Dane County added two more criminal branches to help address the backlog, and she found herself right back at the demanding pace she had just left.

On reflecting on her career, she recalls deciding to become a judge because she enjoyed being a trial lawyer in the courtroom and handling family matters while on the bench.

“Prior to taking the bench, I practiced family law, and I tried two Hague Convention international child custody disputes in federal court on expedited schedules and was asked by the Department of State to join the Hague Convention Attorney Network,” she said. “I found that work as an attorney very fulfilling, and I applied those experiences and perspectives as a judge to help guide families through a very difficult period in their lives.”

Appointed in September 2014 by then-Governor Scott Walker, Reynolds won elections in 2015 and 2021. Reynolds plans to remain active in the legal community as a reserve judge and pursue mediation work. She also looks forward to activities like traveling, scuba diving, yoga, and golf.

Governor Evers has appointed Judge Payal Khandhar to succeed her on the Dane County Circuit Court.

Hon. D. Todd Ehlers

Door County Circuit Court

Door County Circuit Court Judge D. Todd Ehlers will retire at the end of the month, concluding a distinguished career that spanned nearly a quarter of a century. His tenure ranks as the third-longest in county history.

Ehlers, a native of Sevastopol, began his legal career after graduating from Marquette Law School in 1982. He returned to Door County in 1984 and joined the Pankratz Law Office, where he practiced for sixteen years. In 1992, Judge John Koehn appointed him a Court Commissioner, whom he succeeded in 2000. Ehlers was re-elected three times in 2006, 2012, and 2018.

Reflecting on his career, Ehlers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “It has been my extreme pleasure to have served as one of their circuit court judges over the past 23 years,” he said. Ehlers also acknowledged the vital support of his judicial colleagues and court staff throughout his career.

Ehlers made significant contributions to the legal community during his time on the bench. He was active in several judicial committees, including the Wisconsin Criminal Jury Instructions Committee and the Wisconsin Judicial Conduct Advisory Committee, where he held leadership positions. He also played a pivotal role in developing Door County’s Victim Impact Panel in 2001, a program that continues to this day.

“23 years ago I established the Door Kewaunee Victim Impact Panel,” Ehlers said. “Second offense and greater drunk driver offenders must attend the panel or face an additional ten days added to their sentence. Victims of drunk driver offenders present at the panel and discuss with offenders how a drunk driver has impacted their lives.”

Ehlers said in addition to missing the intellectual challenge of the job, he’ll greatly miss his colleagues in the courthouse. “I have worked with many dedicated staff over the years, including my court reporter, the judicial assistants, and the clerks in the Clerk of Courts office.”

Ehlers looks forward to playing more golf, traveling with his wife, and spending time with his grandchildren. He also plans to apply for an appointment as a reserve judge later this fall.

Judge Jennifer Moeller won a contested race to replace Ehlers on the bench. Her term began August 1.

Hon. Michael Schumacher

Eau Claire County Circuit Court – Branch 2

After 17 years of dedicated service on the bench, Circuit Court Judge Michael Schumacher is retiring from Eau Claire County's Second Branch. His colleagues and peers said he leaves a legacy of thoughtful jurisprudence and respected leadership.

"He's a hard worker. He's incredibly intelligent," Eau Claire County District Attorney Peter Rindal remarked to the Leader-Telegram. Having argued hundreds of cases before Judge Schumacher, Rindal praised the judge's ability to render legally sound decisions. "He makes thoughtful decisions; he makes smart decisions, consistent with the law. He's done a great job; he's doing the job he was meant to be doing."

Schumacher's reputation extends far beyond Eau Claire County. "He's well-respected in the field statewide, if not nationally," said Ross Munns, District Court Administrator. "It's the leadership he provides. He definitely set the bar very high."

Schumacher's journey in law began with a bachelor's degree from St. Cloud State University in 1978, followed by a J.D. from the Nebraska College of Law in 1981. He practiced law at Herrick & Hart in Eau Claire until 2007, when he was appointed to the bench by then-Governor Jim Doyle. Schumacher was subsequently re-elected in 2014 and 2020.

Beyond his role as a judge, Schumacher has also been an active member of the Criminal Justice Collaborating Council in Eau Claire County, contributing to broader discussions and initiatives in the criminal justice field.

Longtime deputy city attorney Douglas Hoffer was appointed to take Schumacher’s place on the bench in Branch 2.

Hon. William F. Hue

Jefferson County Circuit Court – Branch 2

After nearly three decades of dedicated service on the bench, Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge William F. Hue has laid down his gavel.

"What do we, as custodians in the greatest system of justice in the world, want justice to look like to all participants? And once we figure out what justice should look like, assuming that look equates to fairness and equality, shouldn't we ensure that the system actually be what we want it to look like?"

Judge Hue first spoke these words in 2013, capturing the essence of his judicial philosophy for the past 29 years. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1980, followed by a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1984. Before his judicial appointment, he worked as a private attorney. In 1995, then-Governor Lee S. Dreyfus appointed Hue to the Jefferson County Circuit Court Branch 2.

In 2018, Hue was named Deputy Chief Judge of the Third Judicial Administrative District. Throughout his career, he also served as Director of the Judicial Conference and was active on several important committees, including the Planning and Policy Advisory Committee, PPAC Subcommittee for the Judicial Conference, Wisconsin Trust Account Foundation, Judicial Education Committee, Probate Benchbook Committee, and Judicial Conference Executive Committee.

Governor Evers appointed Teresa Beck to replace Hue on the Branch 2 bench.

Hon. Jane Sequin

Marinette County Circuit Court

The first female judge in Marinette County history will step away from the bench at the end of the month. Judge Jane M. Sequin will retire from the Marinette County Circuit Court on July 31, 2024.

The dedicated public servant was elected to the bench in 2020. Her appointment was celebrated as a historic milestone, and she quickly established herself as a trusted leader in the community. Throughout her tenure, Sequin has been praised for her calm demeanor and strong judicial temperament, traits highlighted by her colleagues who have supported her along the way.

In a statement regarding her retirement, Sequin expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities she has had to serve the citizens of Marinette County. She acknowledged the vital role her family and fellow judges played in her journey and emphasized her commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for her successor.

Peggy Miller was appointed to replace Sequin on the bench through July 31, 2025.

Hon. Marshall Murray

Milwaukee County Circuit Court

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Marshall B. Murray, who announced his intent to retire at the end of his term, has officially ended his time on the bench. His distinguished judicial career was marked by his commitment to family and domestic violence law.

Murray was appointed to the bench by Governor Tommy Thompson in November 1999 and was elected to the Circuit Court in 2000. He has served in various high-impact roles throughout his tenure, including as the Presiding Judge in the Children’s Court Division, the Domestic Violence Courts, and the Family Court Division. Most recently, he presided over the Probate/Civil Court Division.

Before his judicial appointment, Murray was a Milwaukee County Judicial Court Commissioner from 1996 to 1999 and led the Domestic Violence Unit at the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office from 1992 to 1996. His expertise in domestic violence garnered national attention, with extensive speaking engagements and contributions to several organizations. He has been a lecturer and board member of the National Center on Domestic and Sexual Assault, a national advisor to the Battered Women’s Justice Project, and a member of the Wisconsin Sentencing Commission.

Murray’s contributions also extend to academia and community service. He served on the Board of Trustees of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges and has been involved in various capacities with the National Judicial Institute on Domestic Violence and the National Conference on Juvenile and Family Law. Additionally, he has taught test preparation courses for KAPLAN, Inc., and recently returned to teaching with the organization.

State legislator and immigration rights attorney Marisabel Cabrera won the election for his seat in Branch 43.

Hon. Michael Bloom

Oneida County Circuit Court

Judge Michael Bloom concludes his distinguished career with the Oneida County Circuit Court on July 31, after deciding not to seek re-election. Throughout his tenure, Bloom has taken pride in the positive impact he has had on individuals' lives.

When asked to identify some of the most rewarding experiences of his career, Bloom said, "Those occasions when I have been out and about in the community, at the grocery store, for example, and been approached by a citizen who expresses their appreciation for my work or tells me that they appeared before me in the past and are now doing well and that what I said to them in court made a difference in their lives for the better."

Bloom has witnessed significant changes in the court system, particularly with the advent of technology. He said the various changes that have accompanied the implementation of e-filing and the expanded frequency of remote appearances via Zoom have provided many benefits.

As he prepares to leave the bench, Bloom said he will miss the daily interactions he had in his day-to-day work, including courthouse personnel, law enforcement, attorneys, and the general public. He added that he'd also miss the ongoing intellectual engagement that the job requires.

Looking ahead, Bloom is excited to spend more time with his family. He also intends to explore his creative side by writing short stories and essays. "If I ever manage to finish any to my satisfaction, I will send them out and start collecting rejection letters," he added.

Former Assistant District Attorney Mary Sowinski replaced Bloom as the newest Oneida County Circuit Court judge on August 1.

Hon. Kevin Klein

Price County Circuit Court

Judge Kevin Klein has announced that he will not seek re-election to the Price County Circuit Court, bringing a distinguished chapter of public service to a close.

Appointed to the bench by former Governor Scott Walker in 2017, Klein said he took pride in his judicial work ethic, noting the importance of preparation when presiding from the bench. "I am sure most judges work just as hard. There is no limit to the time spent being appropriately prepared and having a true understanding of applicable components. The workday is hardly defined as the time on the bench," he said.

As he prepares to move into the next phase of his career, Klein acknowledges that he will miss the regular interactions with court staff and participants, adding it was a privilege to work with them. He hopes to continue to help serve his community as a reserve judge.

Nonetheless, Klein looks forward to engaging in various projects and savoring a life not dictated by a strict calendar. "I am a project person, and I have many things I want to work on or accomplish for which there just has been no time. I will enjoy not living by a calendar," he stated.

Mark Fuhr, a former assistant district attorney, was sworn in as the newest judge Price County earlier this month.

Hon. Patricia A. Barrett

Sauk County Circuit Court

Judge Patricia A. Barrett has heard her last case from the Sauk County Circuit Court bench. Elected in 2018, Barrett previously served as Sauk County's district attorney for 18 years. Reflecting on her career, she noted, "I spent 18 years as the elected DA in Sauk County and 'retired' in 2013, only to get elected as circuit court judge in 2018."

Her time on the bench was marked by both professional and personal challenges. She experienced the tragic loss of her friend, Judge Jack Roemer, underscoring the risks of public service. "During this term, I experienced the senseless attack on a personal friend who I knew for over 20 years, Judge Roemer. A reminder that what we do is indeed public service with a risk."

The COVID-19 pandemic also posed unprecedented challenges. Barrett credits the professionalism of the court's leaders and staff to ensure the continuity of court operations.

Barrett said she will miss several things from her tenure on the bench, but most of all, she will miss her colleagues. "All the wonderful people I have had the pleasure to work with—great, caring, knowledgeable, and sharing colleagues," she said.

As she steps into retirement, Barrett remains resolute in her decision, stating, "My goal is to stay retired this time!"

Judge Blake Duren won a tightly contested race to serve the next six years on the Sauk County Circuit Court.

Hon. Phillip Koss

Walworth County Circuit Court

After serving the people of Walworth County for more than 30 years, Judge Phillip Koss has announced his retirement from the bench. His time as a judge and district attorney leaves a legacy of commitment and integrity.

Koss emphasized the importance of the judicial profession, saying that those entering careers in public service are heeding a noble calling. "I have truly enjoyed my career as both a prosecutor and judge. We should all be proud to help those as the law allows, whether defendants, victims, juveniles, or civil litigants."

Significant accomplishments have marked Koss's career. He has taught at the University of Wisconsin Law School for more than 20 years and was recently recognized as the Adjunct Teacher of the Year. He's also traveled twice to Latvia to train judges and legal professionals in their criminal justice system.

Koss said one of the highlights of his career has been the relationships he built with colleagues. "I enjoyed working with so many others, whether clerks, reporters, law enforcement, or other attorneys. Maybe it is why no one has ever run against me, but I will miss them all each day. We cannot do these jobs alone, and I appreciate all the support over the years," Koss reflected. "My daughter remarked that I am fortunate enough to have had a career that I will miss. She is correct."

Looking ahead, Koss and his wife plan to embark on a three-week trip to Europe this fall and look forward to spending more time with their children and grandchildren. He also hopes to enjoy biking and attending Brewers and Packers games

Judge Estee Scholtz, the former Deputy Corporation Counsel, was sworn in to replace Koss earlier this month.

Hon. Laura Lau

Waukesha County Circuit Court

Judge Laura Lau of the Waukesha County Circuit Court decided not to seek re-election, closing her current chapter of public service. With 23 years on the bench, her career has been marked by significant contributions to the judiciary and the broader community.

Reflecting on her proudest achievements, Lau emphasized her active involvement in the non-profit community. "I am an active member of our non-profit community and have served on boards for over 30 years. Homelessness has become an issue in our community, and being able to talk to a homeless individual about the outreach workers, by name, seems to get their attention. The hope is that they will accept the services offered as a step towards becoming a productive citizen who can thrive outside of the criminal justice system," she said.

Recalling some of her most rewarding experiences, Lau shared, "I will miss the law and studying the law. Because it is always changing and you're always having to read and keep up with the new cases. I'll miss working with the people and feeling like you are connecting with people." She also mentioned how she valued the relationships she built, adding, "Many wonderful friendships have been formed over the past 23 years."

As she moves forward, Lau plans to dedicate more time to her family and continue her commitment to the non-profit sector. She said her breast cancer diagnosis in June 2023 has profoundly shifted her priorities, making family and friends more important than ever. Despite her ongoing treatment, expected to conclude in November 2024, she said she remains devoted to her charitable work. One of her notable contributions is the founding of "Mission Possible," a charitable group that supports local non-profits.

Former Waukesha County Assistant District Attorney Jack Pitzo was elected to the bench in April.

Hon. Lloyd V. Carter

Waukesha County Circuit Court

Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Lloyd V. Carter retired on July 1, marking the end of his 13-year tenure on the Branch 4 bench. Reflecting on his decision, Carter said, “While I feel that I still have ‘gas left in the tank’, I believe it is time for me to move on to new challenges and make way for some new blood in this position.”

Carter, who was first elected in 2011, expressed deep appreciation for the people he has worked with over the years. “I will be forever grateful to all of the court staff that I have been able to work with who have made this job so enjoyable, along with the many lawyers and judges that I have interacted with over these years. I can truly say that I have met many interesting people and learned so many valuable lessons during my tenure on the bench.”

Carter said serving the people of Wisconsin and Waukesha County has been a privilege, adding that he took pride in his commitment to fairness and respect in the courtroom. He often drew inspiration from Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech, which he kept in his office as a reminder to always put in his best effort.

Carter acknowledges the challenges the court system faces, such as the shortage of interpreters, court reporters, and attorneys, but he remains optimistic. He believes that the advancement of technology and the court system’s innovation and flexibility, demonstrated during the COVID pandemic, are significant assets. “The court system was determined to find a way to continue doing this very important work during difficult circumstances,” he said.

Carter said he intends to take a deep breath, relax, and move forward. While unsure what lies ahead, he said you will not catch him sitting still.

In May, Gov. Evers appointed Judge Bridget Schoenborn to replace Lloyd on the Waukesha County Circuit Court.

Hon. Teresa Basiliere

Winnebago County Circuit Court

The Winnebago County Circuit Court bid farewell to Judge Teresa S. Basiliere at the end of July as she concluded her service on the bench. Basiliere, who was elected to the court in 2018, chose not to seek re-election.

Before her appointment to the bench, Basiliere built a distinguished career as a family law attorney in the Oshkosh area, where she spent 28 years in private practice. Her extensive experience also included roles as a private court commissioner and Guardian ad Litem for Winnebago County.

In addition to her judicial duties, Basiliere has been an active community leader. She has served as president of the Winnebago County Bar Association and contributed to various organizations, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund, The Christine Anne Domestic Abuse Shelter, the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce, and the Annual Children’s Law Day Program.

Former court commissioner Michael Rust was elected to the Winnebago County Circuit Court in April.