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Johanna R. Kirk

By: Rick Benedict//August 30, 2010//

Johanna R. Kirk

By: Rick Benedict//August 30, 2010//

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Johanna R. Kirk is three-for-three before the Wisconsin Court of Appeals — in just four years.

Kirk is a partner at Knudson, Torvinen Jones & Kirk SC, a 188-year-old, “true general-practice firm,” where she practices special education, probate and business law. But perhaps the most exciting part of her job is the appellate work, where she has already successfully concluded three matters before the Court of Appeals since her 2006 law school graduation.

In Schultz v. Schultz, Kirk represented a widow in a probate dispute. Before her husband’s death, he improperly divested a number of significant assets to her stepchildren, in addition to executing a will in contravention of a previous post-nuptial agreement that gave her stepchildren half of funds she earned via gambling. The appellate court found that the trial court’s three orders all favoring Mrs. Schultz were “final orders in special proceedings,” and that the stepchildren had not timely filed their appeal.

In addition, Kirk has represented the prevailing party in two other appeals. The court entered summary dispositions in both cases.

Who is your favorite Supreme Court justice of all time?

John Marshall. He reformed the U.S. Supreme Court in the early 19th century. He initiated the black robe and encouraged non-dissenting opinions.

What song is on heavy rotation on your iPod?

The Yale Whiffenpoofs, an all-male acapella choir, and Lady Gaga.

To what faults do you feel most indulgent?

Inattention to detail. I’m a lousy proofreader. And I’m a perfectionist. I put much higher expectations on myself than other people do.

What is your greatest fear?

Not being prepared.

What is the first concert you went to?

Brooks and Dunn in Eau Claire.

Where would you like to live?

Superior first; then Alaska.

What do you miss most about your childhood?

The free time, and endless play with no purpose.

What are you craving right now?

A scotch and soda.

What would you never wear?

A holiday sweater.

What’s your favorite sports team?

The Chicago Bears.

What can you spend hours doing that’s not law-related?

Fishing.

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