Judge Michael Zell of the Portage County Circuit Court has been named Judge of the Year by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Bench and Bar Committee. The award recognizes an outstanding circuit court judge who has improved the judicial system during the past year through leadership in advancing the quality of justice, judicial education, or innovative programs.
Judge Zell was recognized for his leadership in revising Portage County’s local court rules, an effort the committee described as an extraordinary undertaking. The updated rules include provisions addressing the use of artificial intelligence in court filings and proceedings. At Judge Zell’s urging, Portage County also changed its local rules in debt collection matters to require actual notice, helping ensure that default judgments carry greater meaning because respondents are personally aware that a judgment is being sought.
The committee described Judge Zell as a natural leader who knows the law and strives to do the right thing, no matter the personal cost.
“I have been very fortunate as a judge because I’ve had excellent mentors, and have great colleagues in Portage County. Though I’m honored to be recognized for the things we have accomplished, it has truly been a group effort. My partner judges, the court staff, law enforcement, other county personnel, and local attorneys deserve to be recognized for working together to make the system better,” said Judge Zell. “My goal is to improve the court processes for everyone involved, but most importantly to improve access to justice for those who have barriers to participation.”
Appointed to the Portage County bench in 2022, Judge Zell brought a wealth of experience from practicing law throughout Wisconsin. He has served as an assistant state public defender, assistant district attorney, and solo practitioner, handling public defense, prosecution, private practice, and child welfare matters. Zell earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and his law degree at the University of Wisconsin Law School.
The Judge of the Year Award will be presented June 11 at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Annual Meeting & Conference in La Crosse.
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