Judicial security continues to be a central concern for the Wisconsin Court System, with recent legislative changes bolstering protections for current and former judicial officers. Under the leadership of Chief Justice Annette Kingsland Ziegler, the system has implemented a number of steps to enhance the security of judges and court personnel across the state.
One key development comes from 2023 Wisconsin Act 236, now part of Wis. Stat. § 19.36(16), which specifically exempts Judicial Security Profiles from disclosure under Wisconsin’s public records law. This measure aims to protect the personal information of judicial officers, including those serving or who have previously served as justices, judges, court commissioners, or tribal judges.
In response to the new legislation, the Judicial Security Profile form (CS-245) has been updated and is now available on CourtNet. Judicial officers are encouraged to access the revised form via the “Forms” page or the “Judicial & Court Security Resources” section. For those without access to CourtNet, the form can be requested through the Director of State Courts Office.
The updated CS-245 form replaces all previous versions and should be filed with the law enforcement agency most likely to respond in an emergency. Judicial officers with multiple residences are advised to consider filing separate profiles with local agencies at each location.
Judicial officers are encouraged to coordinate with law enforcement to create a robust emergency response plan. The Judicial Security Profile is just one of several tools available to help judicial officers take proactive steps in safeguarding their personal safety. Recently, the State Bar of Wisconsin implemented new protocols that allow for greater control over the personal information displayed in public directories, helping to reduce risks related to privacy breaches and potential threats. To learn more about those changes, please read this article.
For further information, contact the Director of State Courts Office at (608) 266-1298.
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