Wisconsin Supreme Court Suspends Judge Ellen Berz for Misconduct
Madison, Wis. — May 27, 2023
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has suspended Dane County Judge Ellen Berz for one week due to her misconduct while presiding over court cases. The suspension, effective June 26, follows a judicial conduct review panel’s recommendation, which was supported by the court, citing Berz’s impulsive behavior and lack of restraint.
Notably, Berz attempted to arrest a hospitalized defendant herself and engaged in a sarcastic exchange with another defendant requesting a trial delay. The court underscored the importance of patience, impartiality, and professionalism among judges in their suspension order.
Berz acknowledged the incident and accepted responsibility. The suspension comes shortly after the court imposed an indefinite suspension on Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan, who faces federal charges for assisting a defendant evade immigration authorities.
The Wisconsin Judicial Commission had previously filed a misconduct complaint against Berz, accusing her of failing to uphold judicial impartiality and professionalism. This incident raises concerns about the judiciary’s integrity, following a period in which multiple judges have faced serious allegations of professional misconduct.
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