Evers taps Jenna Gill as Lafayette County Circuit Court Judge, Seeks Applicants for Lafayette County District Attorney

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Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers Friday announced his appointment of Jenna Gill to the Lafayette County Circuit Court. The appointment fills a vacancy created by the passing of Judge Duane M. Jorgensen. She will complete a term ending July 31, 2025.

“Jenna Gill has shown a deep commitment to both public service and her community,” said Evers.

“She will serve the people of Lafayette County well as their next circuit court judge,” Evers added.

Gill has served as the Lafayette County District Attorney since January 2017. As the district attorney managing the office in a small county, she has a breadth of experience prosecuting cases ranging from ordinance and traffic violations to violent crimes. Prior to serving as district attorney, she was an attorney for Russell Law Offices, S.C. in Darlington, where she handled family law cases, small claims actions, civil matters for individuals and financial institutions, real estate transactions, and business and estate planning.

“As a retired and reserve Lafayette County Circuit Court Judge, I have had the opportunity to work with Jenna where she has presented as knowledgeable on the law and a good litigator, but more importantly, she displays an attitude of fairness with a patient demeanor,” said retired Lafayette County Circuit Court Judge William D. Johnston. “As a hard-working district attorney, mother, and public servant, she is capable and ready to assume and carry out the position of Lafayette County 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. During her time as district attorney, she worked with Judge Jorgensen and the Lafayette County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to successfully develop a treatment court for Lafayette County.

“I am humbled and deeply honored to accept the appointment to be likely the first female Lafayette County Circuit Court Judge,” said Gill. “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.”

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 will serve for the remainder of the unexpired term that ends January 2025.

To apply, please email a completed application form and supporting materials to [email protected]. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Mon., July 1, 2024.

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, please contact the Governor’s Office of Legal Counsel at (608) 266-1212.