Gov. Evers Appoints Michael Kenitz to the Washington County Circuit Court
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers announced today his appointment of Michael Kenitz to the Washington County Circuit Court–Branch 3. The appointment fills the vacancy being created by Judge Todd K. Martens’ resignation, effective March 3, 2022. Kenitz will complete a term ending July 31, 2023.
“Mike Kenitz is a well-respected attorney with a broad range of experience in numerous practice areas,” said Gov. Evers. “His commitment to his community, combined with his legal experience, by all accounts will make him an excellent judge for the people of Washington County.”
Kenitz opened a private practice in his hometown of Hartford after graduating from law school in 2006. His primary areas of practice include criminal and traffic defense, family law, civil litigation, small claims litigation, landlord-tenant litigation, and estate planning, representing both individuals and small businesses. He also handles cases as a Guardian ad Litem in custody, placement, and guardianship disputes. In 2020, Kenitz was appointed to serve as a Supplemental Court Commissioner for Washington County.
“I am pleased Governor Evers has appointed Mike Kenitz to succeed me as Washington County Branch 3 Circuit Judge,” said Judge Martens. “I have known Mike since he started practicing law. Mike is a smart, honest, hard-working lawyer with a tremendous breadth of experience and an impeccable reputation in our legal community. The people of Washington County will be fortunate to have him preside over Branch 3; he will be a credit to the bench.”
“It is an enormous honor to be selected to serve as the next judge of the Washington County Circuit Court, Branch 3,” said Kenitz. “I would like to thank Governor Evers and the members of the Judicial Selection Advisory Committee for their efforts and consideration for this appointment. I also want to thank my family, friends, and colleagues for their support. I look forward to faithfully serving the people of Washington County.”
A photo of Kenitz is available here.
An online version of this release is available here.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Surprised to see Governor Evers appointing a judge to a vacant seat. 99% of the time, Democrats leave the opening vacant, allowing Republicans to fill the seat.
Obama left 105 federal judgeships open when he left office, which were happily filled by Donald Trump.