MILWAUKEE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE BRANCH 2
Wisconsin’s courts play a vital role in protecting our rights and upholding the rule of law. State courts hear approximately 95% of all cases, including matters involving families, contracts, criminal law, voting rights, juvenile justice, and constitutional questions. They are the final arbiters of state law and the Wisconsin Constitution.The Wisconsin Circuit Courts are the main trial courts for civil and criminal cases in the Wisconsin court system. They also hear cases appealed from Municipal Courts and from administrative hearings. At least one circuit court judge serves in each of the state's 72 counties. Voters elect Circuit Court judges to serve six-year terms in nonpartisan elections. There is no term limit.Learn more
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Milton L. Childs
(NON)
How does your background demonstrate your commitment to public service and the fair administration of justice?
How will your experience assist you in working with people from different backgrounds who will come before you in court?
How will you ensure you remain impartial in practice and appearance while serving in this judicial office?
What steps will you take to ensure fairness in both civil and criminal decisions for all who come before the court?
Please name one current or former US Supreme Court Justice you admire and explain your reasoning.
Recorded Candidate Interview
I was born and raised in Milwaukee. Prior to going to law school, I was a high school math teacher. I enjoyed working with young people, many of whom were involved in the justice system and dealing with their own trauma and other challenges. My first job out of law school was with Public Defender’s Office. It was there that I learned how to advocate for justice and protect my client’s constitutional rights. Some of my prior community work includes being a Scoutmaster, little league coach, umpire, basketball official and working with the elderly. I understand the importance of public service; I’ve pretty much done it all of my life. I also understand the importance of making sure justice is fairly administered to everyone. There are many communities within this city, state and country that believe they are not heard and at times feel like second-class citizens. The justice system has to be the system where they are treated equally and fairly. I am committed to making sure this happens.
As a teacher you learn to observe, listen and respond to the different needs and experiences of your students. I brought those characteristics with me to the bench. I listen to people and try to determine what they need. I have a good temperament. I am patient and try to be clear in my instructions and my communication with those that come before me. I continually identify any bias that I have and try to mitigate them. I set the tone in my courtroom and I am fortunate that my staff has inherited my tone and we try to treat everyone equally and kindly, regardless of who they are.
I try to avoid improper associations and I try to avoid conflicts of interest. I try not to show any favoritism to any particular attorney, organization or law firm. I apply the law objectively. I try not to prejudge, always giving people an opportunity to share and give their “side of the story”. I am professional and friendly with everyone, but not afraid to make that tough decision.
When applicable, I will make sure that each person has competent representation. I will give litigants an opportunity to have their day in court by giving them an opportunity to present their side, defend their actions and provide them with a fair hearing, as I follow the laws and rules. I believe that all parties, including victims, have a right to have a voice.
Justice Thurgood Marshall – He was an amazing attorney and became an amazing Supreme Court Justice. He was bold and continued to stand his ground as he supported equality and justice. He was often the lone voice as he issued passionate dissents. He was a true example of having judicial independence.
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