After more than 20 years of judicial service, Outagamie County Circuit Court Judge Mark McGinnis announced he will retire on early next year.
In an August 27 letter to Governor Tony Evers, McGinnis said the retirement date of February 1, 2026 was chosen to coincide with his 55th birthday and the midpoint of his 21st year on the bench.
McGinnis was first elected to the court in 2005 and has been re-elected to multiple six-year terms. Over the course of his career, he was appointed to leadership positions within the Wisconsin judiciary by three different chief justices of the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
He described serving in his home county as “the greatest privilege of my professional career” and expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by the public. McGinnis also praised the dedication of court staff, fellow judges, attorneys, and community members in supporting the work of the courts.
After retiring from the bench, McGinnis plans to remain active in the legal field. He intends to provide education and training for judges in the United States and abroad and to consult with legal professionals, individuals, and businesses.
Governor Evers will appoint a successor to fill the upcoming vacancy in Outagamie County Circuit Court, Branch I.
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