June 4, 2022 – Yesterday (June 3), one of our members, retired Juneau County Judge John Roemer Jr., was reportedly shot and killed in an attack at his home in New Lisbon.
Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul held a press conference and noted that the investigation is ongoing, but said the suspected killer’s motivation may have stemmed from a court case.
"The individual who’s a suspect appears to have had other targets as well, appears to be related to the judicial system," Kaul said.
As we mourn the loss of one of our members, we also condemn violence in all forms. Violence against judges threatens the sanctity of the judicial system, which is a primary function of our constitutional democracy.
Cheryl Daniels, U.W. Law 1985, is president of the State Bar of Wisconsin. She is now retired in Madison after a career in government, with 35 years as program counsel, administrative law judge, and assistant legal counsel at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection.
Judges play an important role in our civil society.
The civil justice system allows parties to resolve their disputes through a neutral party, our judges. Parties don’t always leave a courtroom satisfied, but the system allows them to have their day in court and be heard. For individuals accused of crimes, judges ensure fairness, including the constitutional right to a defense.
Our judges play a crucial role in the pursuit of justice for all.
Violence against judges threatens our democracy. The State Bar of Wisconsin condemns any threats or acts of violence against judges, who are crucial in maintaining our democracy.
