PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK
(WTAQ-WLUK) – The Wisconsin Supreme Court’s 2027-29 budget request will include asking for eight new judges across the state – including two for Brown County and one in Shawano/Menominee counties. A recent study showed a need for 30 judges statewide, and five in Brown County.
Additionally, the Supreme Couty is seeking $3 million for improved courthouse security, in light of 129 documented security threats in 2025.
The Legislature will review the budget in spring. The next state budget cycle starts July 1, 2027.
A recent study on judicial workload said about 30 judges and court commissioners are needed statewide. Brown County had the single-highest deficit, with a need for five more judicial positions.
Brown County currently has eight circuit court judges and four commissioners.
Brown County officials have expressed support for adding more judges. The county would need to provide the physical space as well as some support staff for each branch.
According to the state from the Supreme Court, the court system is seeking about $1.9 million over the biennium to establish four branches in fiscal year 2028 and four in fiscal year 2029. The proposal identifies two branches in Brown County and one each in Kenosha, La Crosse, Pierce, Trempealeau, and Washington counties, plus one in the Shawano/Menominee circuit.
“The study measured the time judges need to review evidence, conduct hearings, and make decisions,” Director of State Courts Audrey K. Skwierawski said. “Adding branches in counties with the greatest need would give those courts more capacity to hear cases without unnecessary delay.”
As for the security, the budget plan envisions a grant program for counties to tap into to make improvements.
“Courthouses must be safe for the people who come to seeking justice, serve as jurors, and do the work of the courts,” Chief Justice Jill J. Karofsky said. “Every single person who walks into a courthouse deserves to be free from fear of intimidation or harm. Counties cannot address every security need alone. Our proposal would add state support where it can make a practical difference.”
The budget plan also includes another appeals court judge, ten positions to support the court’s website system, pay increases for staff, and a behavioral health coordinator to provide technical guidance to courts and justice partners in addressing cases involving mental health and substance use disorders.
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