Supreme Conflict: The Future of Wisconsin’s High Court

MADISON – Two former Wisconsin Supreme Court justices and two private practice lawyers who have argued before the state’s high court will discuss its visible conflict and inner workings at a forum sponsored by the Madison professional chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

Former Justices Janine Geske and Jon P. Wilcox, and lawyers Jim Troupis and Lester Pines will discuss the court at the June 29 forum. Geske served on the court from 1993-98, while Wilcox served on the court from 1992-2007. Troupis has represented numerous Republican clients and conservative causes as well as several members of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Most recently, he represented the campaign of Justice David Prosser in the statewide recount of the April election. Pines has argued many cases before the Wisconsin Supreme Court during his almost four decades of practice, including numerous original actions. He is a well-known Democrat who was appointed by Gov. Doyle to represent the state in defense of the domestic partner registry and other high-profile matters.

The discussion will commence at 7 pm.

Prior to that, at 6:30 pm, reporter Patrick Marley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel will provide free training to local journalists on covering the Supreme Court. Marley has closely followed the court for the last several years, having reported on decisions, inner conflicts and elections.

Both events are open to the public and will be held in the Beefeater Room on the third floor of the UW-Madison Memorial Union, 800 Langdon St. (This is a new location and a change from the original announcement.)

SPJ is a national membership organization that promotes high standards and ethics among journalists, fosters First Amendment principles and advocates that journalism is a key element in representative democracy.

Contact: Mark Pitsch, president, Madison professional chapter, Society of Professional Journalists, 608-252-6145