For the Tomahawk Leader

ONEIDA COUNTY – Governor Tony Evers announced on Friday, Aug. 12 that he appointed Mary Roth Burns to the Oneida County Circuit Court – Branch 1.

The appointment will fill the vacancy created by Judge Patrick O’Melia’s retirement.

Burns will complete a term ending on July 31, 2023.

“Mary Roth Burns is a well-respected attorney with a breadth of legal and professional experience,” Evers said. “Her dedication to the community and tireless commitment to the ideals of the law will make her an excellent judge for the people of Oneida County.”

Burns worked for the Wisconsin State Public Defender’s Office from 2008 until Aug. 2021. She then opened her own law practice in Rhinelander, representing clients in criminal and family matters. She also has extensive experience working with the Vilas County/Lac du Flambeau Healing to Wellness Court and has been working to implement a treatment court in Oneida County, a release from Evers’ office said.

“As the local attorney manager, I was honored to work with Mary Roth Burns for 11 years at the State Public Defender’s Office in Rhinelander and am thrilled that she will continue to serve our community in her new role as Oneida County Judge,” said Attorney Courtney Jolin. “Mary is an excellent attorney – she has a strong work ethic and a caring heart. Her years of diverse experiences, long-term ties to the area, and her commitment to public service will guide her well on the bench.”

Burns lives in Rhinelander and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, New York University and the University of Wisconsin Law School.

“She has deep ties to the community, having raised her family in Rhinelander, served on the boards of the Northern Arts Council and ArtStart, and volunteered for many local organizations,” the release stated.

“I am honored to accept the appointment to the Oneida County Circuit Court, and I appreciate the confidence in me shown by Governor Evers and the governor’s Judicial Selection Advisory Committee,” Burns stated. “I am committed to following Judge O’Melia’s example by resolving cases fairly and efficiently, while treating all parties respectfully and maintaining public safety. I look forward to continuing my positive working relationship with courthouse personnel, attorneys and law enforcement. With my varied life experience, 15 years of legal experience and commitment to fairness, integrity and impartiality, I look forward to becoming the first female judge in the history of Oneida County.”