Third Branch eNews

The Wisconsin Supreme Court returned to the road for its first Justice on Wheels program since 2022, drawing a capacity crowd to the Richland County Courthouse on October 27. Students, teachers, and community members filled every seat of the historic courtroom to watch the justices hear two live oral arguments, bringing a rare glimpse of the state’s highest court to southwest Wisconsin.

The visit held special meaning for Richland County, where retired Chief Justice Ann Walsh Bradley was born and began her career in public service. Bradley, who served on the Supreme Court for 30 years before retiring earlier this year, was honored with the presentation of a plaque and the dedication of a portrait that will remain on permanent display inside the courthouse. The portrait, taken by local photographer and attorney Tatiana Shirasaki, was provided by the State Bar of Wisconsin.

“Chief Justice Bradley’s commitment to public service, access to justice, and the people of Wisconsin has spanned decades,” Chief Justice Karofsky said. “She leaves a legacy that will continue to influence the law, and inspire those who serve it, for years to come.”

The morning program also featured a flag presentation by a local veteran’s group and remarks from Richland County Circuit Court Judge Lisa McDougal, who welcomed the Court to the community. “It’s a special day for our courthouse and community,” McDougal said. “We’re grateful to host the Court and to give our students this firsthand look at the judicial process.”

Chief Justice Karofsky introduced members of the Court and recognized invited guests before delivering opening remarks. “We bring the Court to counties across the state so that people can see what we do up close,” she said. “We hope today’s experience deepens understanding of how justice works and why it matters.”

The Court also recognized winners of the Justice on Wheels Civics Contest, which invited area fifth graders to explore themes of fairness, justice, and the Constitution through creative projects. Justice Rebecca F. Dallet presented awards to first-place winner Avah Fargen of Ithaca Elementary School and runners-up Sawyer Perkins and Lydia Hall of Kickapoo Elementary School. “One of the best parts of this program is seeing how young people interpret justice and civic responsibility,” Dallet said. “Their work shows that the future of our courts is in thoughtful and capable hands.”

The justices heard oral arguments in Wren v. Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital Milwaukee, Inc. and State v. K.R.C., both involving questions of statewide significance. Retired Richland County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Sharp and local attorney Julie Dadoun provided introductory remarks before each hearing to help student audiences and other visitors follow the legal issues under discussion.

Attendance filled every available seat, with overflow guests watching a live stream from the county boardroom and others viewing statewide coverage on WisconsinEye. Following the arguments, the justices joined local officials, attorneys, and community members for a luncheon and question-and-answer session at the A.D. German Warehouse.

For many in attendance, the visit offered a rare opportunity to witness the state’s highest court at work in their own community. Chief Justice Karofsky noted that the return of Justice on Wheels reflected the Court’s ongoing commitment to public access and civic education, continuing a tradition that brings Wisconsin’s judicial system closer to the people it serves.