Third Branch eNews

Justice Chris Taylor was formally welcomed as the newest member of the Wisconsin Supreme Court during an investiture ceremony held August 14 at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison.

Chief Justice Jill J. Karofsky administered the oath of office and delivered remarks during the ceremony. Dane County Circuit Court Judge Nia Trammell served as host of ceremonies.

“As a judge on the circuit court and then the Court of Appeals, Justice Taylor earned a reputation as a prepared, independent, and fair judge who has committed to the rule of law,” said Chief Justice Karofsky. “I have no doubt that Justice Taylor will defend our constitution and stay committed to our democracy.”

Justice Taylor, who began her 10-year term on the Court on August 1, spoke about beginning her work as a justice and the role of the Court.

“I am ready to get to work on the Supreme Court for the people of the great state of Wisconsin, to make sure our court is strong, independent, and protects the rights and freedoms of all Wisconsinites,” Justice Taylor said.

The program also included remarks from Becca Schwei and Joey Hoey, longtime friends of Justice Taylor, and Jim Feldman, Justice Taylor’s husband. The Dane County Sheriff’s Office Color Guard presented the colors, and the Leotha Stanley and Friends gospel choir performed the national anthem.

Justice Taylor was elected April 7 to succeed Justice Rebecca Grassl Bradley, who did not seek re-election.

Justice Taylor joined the Supreme Court after serving on the District IV Court of Appeals, where she was elected in 2023. Before joining the appellate court, she served on the Dane County Circuit Court following her appointment in 2020 and election the following year.

Before joining the bench, Justice Taylor practiced law at firms in Milwaukee and Madison, primarily in family law. She also worked in legal and policy roles and served in the Wisconsin State Assembly from 2011 to 2020.

Justice Taylor earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1990 and her law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1995. Her Supreme Court term runs through July 31, 2036.