Wisconsin Administrative Code Judicial Commission
Wisconsin Judicial Commission Overview
The Wisconsin Judicial Commission is an independent state agency responsible for investigating and prosecuting allegations of judicial misconduct. Its authority and procedures are established under Wis. Stat. § 757.81–757.94, and the corresponding rules can be found in the Wisconsin Administrative Code.
Key Functions of the Commission
Investigation – Reviews complaints against judges for unethical conduct or violations of judicial rules.
Prosecution – Files formal complaints and may bring disciplinary action against a judge.
Disciplinary Authority – Can recommend sanctions, including censure, suspension, or removal, depending on the severity of the misconduct.
Confidentiality – Initial investigations are typically confidential until formal proceedings begin.
Administrative Code Provisions
The rules governing the Commission are typically found in Chapter JC of the Wisconsin Administrative Code (commonly cited as JC 1–10).
JC 1: General provisions, definitions, and scope.
JC 2–4: Procedures for complaint intake, preliminary review, and investigation.
JC 5–6: Formal hearings and disciplinary actions.
JC 7–10: Reporting, appeals, and procedural safeguards.
Judicial Misconduct Covered
Violation of the Wisconsin Code of Judicial Conduct.
Abuse of judicial office, including bias, partiality, or unethical behavior.
Conduct undermining public confidence in the judiciary.
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