Third Branch eNews

Marquette County Circuit Court Judge Chad Hendee has been named Judge of the Year by the State Bar of Wisconsin. Presented by the State Bar’s Bench and Bar Committee, the Judge of the Year Award honors a circuit court judge who has improved the judicial system through leadership in advancing the quality of justice, judicial education, or implementation of innovative programs.

Judge Hendee was recognized for his dedication to expanding and strengthening Wisconsin’s treatment court system. In addition to implementing effective practices, he has focused on building a strong and supportive community for graduates. Some examples include offering activities like summer picnics and softball games, helping secure reduced-rent housing, and fostering connections between graduates and local law enforcement. His approach has been acknowledged as a model for other counties across Wisconsin.

“This is extremely humbling, and I feel very undeserving. Being part of an amazing Treatment Court program has been one of the highlights of my career, first as a prosecutor and now as a judge,” said Judge Hendee. “Treatment Court is truly an amazing experience when you have a team like I do. I am very lucky to have the best team in the state who make me look good.”

In addition to this year’s honor, Judge Hendee has also received the Hero Award from the Wisconsin Association of Treatment Court Professionals.

Judge Hendee’s leadership in treatment courts reflects a broad legal career rooted in public service. He was elected to the Marquette County Circuit Court in 2019, following eight years as the county’s District Attorney. Prior to that, he worked as an Assistant District Attorney for Sauk County, in the Sauk County Corporation Counsel’s Office, and spent time in private practice. He earned his undergraduate degree from Ripon College and his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School.

The Judge of the Year Award will be presented at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Annual Meeting and Conference in June.