The Wisconsin Court System is excited to welcome Adam Plotkin as the new Policy Initiatives Advisor and Legislative Liaison in the Director of State Courts Office, a role he began earlier this month. This newly created role will play a key role in advancing the court system's legislative priorities and strategic initiatives.
Plotkin brings a wealth of experience to this position. For the past 14 years, he served as the Director of Government and Public Affairs for the State Public Defender’s Office (SPD). During his tenure, Plotkin played an essential part in achieving significant improvements, including increased staffing levels, securing funding for attorney pay progression, raising the private bar reimbursement rate, and addressing funding shortfalls. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Adam has been actively engaged in his community. He has served as Treasurer and Past President of Capitol Neighborhoods, Inc., a member of the City of Madison's Downtown Coordinating Committee, and Secretary of the Dane County Emergency Medical Services Commission. His community involvement brings valuable insights into local governance and public policy dynamics that will inform his approach to legislative advocacy.
In his new role, Plotkin will support and build upon recent legislative successes achieved by the Wisconsin Court System, including securing increased funding for circuit court support payments to accommodate new branches created by 2019 Act 184, obtaining additional CCAP funding for cybersecurity initiatives, and advancing judicial security measures under the Judicial Security Package. Plotkin will focus on gaining support for court system budget requests, advocating for enhanced judicial security measures, and advancing mental health initiatives within the court system.
This role also represents a strategic realignment of responsibilities within the Director's Office. With Plotkin dedicated exclusively to legislative efforts, the Chief Legal Counsel will have an increased capacity to address complex legal challenges and organizational needs. This adjustment is expected to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and alignment across the court system's key priorities.
The Director’s Office is excited to welcome Plotkin to the team and looks forward to the contributions he will make in advancing the court system's goals and priorities.
Third Branch eNews is an online monthly newsletter of the Director of State Courts Office. If you are interested in contributing an article about your department’s programs or accomplishments, contact your department head. Information about judicial retirements and judicial obituaries may be submitted to: Sara.Foster@wicourts.gov