By Gary Mays

gmays@

themonroetimes.com

DARLINGTON — The Lafayette County Circuit Court is poised to get a new judge but one with a familiar face — District Attorney Jenna Gill was named to the position. Gill will be Lafayette County’s first female judge.

Gov. Tony Evers appointed Gill, a resident of Lafayette County, according to a press release issued recently. Judge Duane M. Jorgensen died in April, leaving a vacancy that Gill will serve until July 31, 2025. After that, the voters will again decide on a district attorney.

“I am humbled and deeply honored to accept the appointment to be likely the first female Lafayette County Circuit Court Judge,” Gill in the statement. “I am extremely grateful for the encouragement and support of my legal community, friends, and family. I remain committed to exemplifying the values our community holds while ensuring a fair and efficient court system as I continue to serve the people of Lafayette County.”

Since January 2017, Gill has been the district attorney for Lafayette County. According to the statement, she had previously worked as an attorney with Darlington’s Russell Law Offices, S.C., where she handled family law cases, small claims actions, civil matters for individuals and financial institutions, real estate transactions, and business and estate planning.

“Jenna Gill has shown a deep commitment to both public service and her community,” said Gov. Evers. “She will serve the people of Lafayette County well as their next circuit court judge.”

Gill was born and raised in Lafayette County and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the William Mitchell College of Law. Among her many accomplishments during her time as district attorney, she worked with Jorgensen and the Lafayette County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to successfully develop a treatment court for Lafayette County.

Gov. Evers also announced that he is seeking applicants for Lafayette County District Attorney. The appointment will fill the vacancy created by Gill’s appointment to the Lafayette County Circuit Court. The new district attorney would serve for the remainder of the unexpired term filled by Gill that ends January 2025.

Those interested in applying should email a completed application form and supporting materials to GovDAapp@wisconsin.gov. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Monday, July 1.

The application is available on the “Apply to Serve” page of Gov. Evers’ website at: www.evers.wi.gov. For questions about the appointment process, contact the Governor’s Office of Legal Counsel at 608-266-1212.