Walker Appoints Judge Bash to Court of Appeals

Governor Scott Walker appointed on Wednesday Judge William W. Brash, III to the Court of Appeals.  

Brash will replace Justice Rebecca Bradley, who was recently appointed to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

“Judge William Brash is an excellent candidate to serve as District I Court of Appeals Judge,” said Governor Walker.  “His experience on and off the bench combined with his commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law will serve as a great asset to both the bench and the surrounding community.”

Judge Brash served as Milwaukee County Judge since 2001 in the Criminal and Civil Divisions, and has served as Presiding Judge for the civil/probate courts.  Prior to serving as a Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge, Brash was both a private practitioner and a small business owner, and he served as a Municipal Judge for over 12 years.  He has taught seminars on various legal topics in the state and has served as an instructor at the National Judicial College, where he received several awards recognizing his service.  Brash is also actively involved in numerous legal associations, including the Milwaukee and Ozaukee County Bar Associations, where he served as President from 1995 to 1996. 

Milwaukee County Judge Paul R. Van Grunsven, who wrote in support of Judge Brash, noted that he “has earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues as a distinguished Jurist who is always willing to assist other judges.”  “He is a dedicated jurist who strives to be fair, impartial, and thoughtful in all of the cases that come before him.  Judge Brash would be a tremendous addition to the appellate bench and fully deserves this appointment,” said Judge Van Grunsven.

Judge Brash will vacate the position of Branch 21 Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge on December 11, 2015.  Individuals interested in filling this vacancy should apply by 5:00 P.M. on November 9, 2015 using the process outlined here: http://walker.wi.gov/governor-office/apply-to-serve/judicial-application.  Applicants for Branch 21 and Branch 31 of the Milwaukee County Circuit Court will be considered together in the same interview process.  The appointee to Branch 21 will be up for election in April 2017, should he or she choose to run.