Wisconsin Supreme Court holds Justice on Wheels in Richland County

The Wisconsin Supreme Court convened in Richland Center on October 27 as part of its Justice on Wheels outreach and education program. The event drew a capacity crowd to the historic Richland County Courthouse, where students, teachers, and community members gathered to observe oral arguments in two cases of statewide significance.

It was the first Justice on Wheels program held since 2019. Established in 1993, the initiative brings Supreme Court proceedings to counties across Wisconsin to help residents better understand the judicial process and the Court's role in state government.

The morning's ceremony 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. Chief Justice Jill J. Karofsky also addressed the audience, introducing members of the Court and recognizing local officials in attendance.

"We bring the Court to counties across the state so that people can see what we do up close," Chief Justice Karofsky said. "We hope today's experience deepens understanding of how justice works and why it matters."

The event held special meaning for Richland County, the birthplace of retired Chief Justice Ann Walsh Bradley. 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.

"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."

As part of the morning ceremony, the Court also recognized winners of the fifth-grade Justice on Wheels Civics Contest. The contest invited students from area schools to explore themes of fairness, justice, and the Constitution through writing and 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 our Justice on Wheels visits is getting to meet young people who are curious about how government works and what justice really means," Justice Dallet said during the presentation. "Their creativity and insight remind us that the future of justice in Wisconsin is in very good hands."

The Court heard oral arguments in Wren v. Columbia St. Mary's Hospital Milwaukee, Inc. and State v. K.R.C. Retired Richland County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Sharp and local attorney Julie Dadoun provided introductory remarks before each hearing to help student audiences and community members understand the legal issues involved.

By bringing the Court to Richland County, the Justice on Wheels program provided residents a firsthand opportunity to observe Wisconsin's highest court in action and to engage directly with the judicial branch in their own community.