Tough domestic violence cases Olsen’s main focus

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Attorney Christine R. H. Olsen has an eclectic practice.

The Wausau solo practitioner does some plaintiff’s employment discrimination, family law and even a little transportation law, which involves things like cargo claim issues with trucks.

“My husband and I own a trucking company and I do a lot of legal work for them,” said the Eau Claire native, who earned her law degree in California.

But her primary professional passion is working with and representing victims of domestic abuse, especially in divorce cases. About half of Olsen’s practice is family law and she welcomes referrals from domestic violence agencies, which tend to involve sensitive issues.

“I do tend to take the worst of the worst cases,” she said. “I get a lot of referrals where there are restraining orders in place or documented physical violence.”

In addition to handling cases, Olsen is a frequent speaker to local domestic violence organizations to educate people on their choices if they are victims of abuse.

She is a longtime member of the Marathon County Domestic Intervention Team and has also worked in conjunction with the Wisconsin Coalition against Domestic Violence and trained colleagues through Wisconsin Judicare, Inc.

“I think that having an understanding of domestic violence issues helps me better represent clients because I know what questions to ask and how to respond to some of the answers I’m given,” she said.

But it takes more than a sympathetic ear to provide good legal representation.

Olsen said it is about advising a client about what their options are and how to best reach a good resolution to a bad situation.

“People in violent situations are often stuck and to get out requires a great deal of courage,” she said. “I try and help them take action without making a decision for them.”

After practicing for two years in the San Diego area, Olsen returned to Wisconsin in 1988 with her husband and has remained an active member in both the local and State Bar.

She is a past president of the Marathon County Bar Association and was the first woman elected to the position. Olsen also serves on the State Bar’s Public Education Committee and is a former president of the Young Lawyers’ Division.

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