Third Branch eNews

Justice Jill J. Karofsky began her term as Chief Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court on July 1, following her election by colleagues to lead the Court for the remainder of the current two-year term, which runs through April 30, 2027. She succeeds Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, who concluded her service as Chief Justice on June 30.

Karofsky expressed appreciation for the trust placed in her by fellow justices and emphasized her commitment to fairness and accessibility in the state court system.

"I am grateful for the trust my colleagues have placed in me, and I will strive to ensure our Court operates with fairness, transparency, and respect,” Chief Justice Karofsky said. “Together, I believe we will continue to advance access to justice across all 72 counties and protect the people of Wisconsin and their constitutional rights.”

Karofsky was elected to the Wisconsin Supreme Court in 2020. Prior to joining the Court, she served as a judge on the Dane County Circuit Court and held leadership roles at the Wisconsin Department of Justice, including as executive director of the Office of Crime Victim Services. Her earlier career included work as an assistant attorney general, Wisconsin’s first Violence Against Women Resource Prosecutor, and a Dane County prosecutor.

She has also served as general counsel and director of education and human resources at the National Conference of Bar Examiners and taught as an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin Law School. Throughout her career, Karofsky has been active in statewide committees and task forces related to victims’ rights, domestic abuse prevention, and judicial education.

Justice Ann Walsh Bradley was elected Chief Justice in May and served a two-month term. Justice Bradley has served on the Supreme Court since 1995 and is the Court’s longest-serving current member. She said she strongly supports Karofsky’s leadership.

“Chief Justice Karofsky brings deep experience, compassion, and a collaborative spirit to the role of chief justice,” said Justice Bradley. “I am confident she will carry forward our Court's dedication to justice and service for all Wisconsinites.”

The chief justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court serves as the administrative head of the state’s judicial system and works closely with court leaders statewide to support the efficient operation of the courts.