Committed to Justice
Trusted Experience
Proven Dedication to Our Community
Bringing Vast Experience to the Bench
I am excited to be running for La Crosse County Circuit Court Judge - Branch 1. With 25 years of experience as a local attorney and 17 years as a Court Commissioner, I have dedicated my career to serving our community. I have enjoyed working and volunteering in La Crosse County and believe my experience will be an asset on the bench. Please follow and share my Facebook page, let me know if you can help with a sign or other assistance, and, of course, reach out with any questions.
I am asking for your help and your vote on or before April 1, 2025!
About Joe
Joe has 25 years of experience as a local trial attorney, and 17 years of experience as a Court Commissioner for La Crosse County. He has tried many cases throughout the Coulee Region, and has argued two cases before the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Joe’s extensive experience in the legal system has garnered the support of a vast swath of our legal community, including many sitting judges, retired judges, district attorneys, and attorneys throughout the region.
Beyond his legal work, Joe has given back to La Crosse County in other ways. He served three terms as a La Crosse County Board Supervisor, and was elected 2nd Vice Chair unanimously by his colleagues on the Board. He also has significant volunteer experience - serving on the board of directors of the Coulee Region Business Center (small business incubator) and also served on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer’s Association’s La Crosse office. He is on the Executive Committee of the La Crosse County Bar Association and has served for the last few years as the La Crosse Regional Coordinator for the Wisconsin Bar Association’s High School Mock Trial tournament. Most importantly, Joe has two amazing sons (Jack and Sam) who both graduated from La Crosse Logan High School. Joe’s commitment to the community is apparent, and he is excited about the opportunity to continue his service as Branch One Circuit Court Judge.
Quick Facts
25 Years: Local attorney - Johns, Flaherty & Collins, S.C., Partner
17 Years: La Crosse County Supplemental Court Commissioner
3-Terms: La Crosse County Board Supervisor, 2nd Vice Chair
Volunteer: Coulee Region Business Center & La Crosse Region Alzheimer’s Association
High School Mock Trial: Regional Coordinator
La Crosse County Bar Association: Member and Executive Committee Member
Why I'm Running
I believe the constitutional role for our independent judiciary has arguably never been more important in our republic. The rule of law and respect for our co-equal branches of government are integral to the maintenance of our society.
I believe in equal justice under the law, including ways to enhance our judicial system so it provides due process and fairness to all who are involved: parties, witnesses, those accused of crimes, victims, jurors, attorneys, the free press, clerks and citizens. Providing equal justice includes engaging in active listening, providing a fair process for folks in our diverse community, ensuring that all people have equal justice and a genuine opportunity to be heard.
I believe in the continued use of evidence-based practices to best serve our community and the courts in their decision-making.
I believe my experience as an attorney and court commissioner would allow me to hit the ground running to provide a steady and fair hand as soon as I take the bench.
I believe my volunteer work in the community, my 25 years of experience as a private attorney for Johns, Flaherty & Collins, S.C., and 17 years of experience as a Court Commissioner have given me a good perspective and judgment. I recognize the need for public safety and accountability combined with evidence-based services, supervision and practices to decrease recidivism.
I believe my broad legal experience as a private attorney managing a wide variety of cases - criminal, personal injury, real estate, insurance disputes, banking, probate disputes, family disputes, restraining orders, child protection, guardianships and mental commitments, agency reviews and other types of cases give me the ability to take the bench and ask the right questions, do the necessary legal research, and provide fair process and just outcomes in all contexts.
I will enjoy the intellectual challenge of being a circuit court judge of general jurisdiction presiding over a vast array of different and challenging legal issues and claims.
Your support is essential to our success! Join our campaign to help make a positive difference for La Crosse County. Whether you can volunteer, display a yard sign, spread the word, or make a financial contribution —every effort counts and is appreciated.
Together, we can bring trusted, fair, and balanced leadership to the bench.
Endorsements
Current Judges
La Crosse County Circuit Court Judges
Gloria Doyle
Mark Huesmann
Elliott Levine
Municipal Court Judges
Dennis Marcou - City of La Crosse Municipal Court
Nikki Swayne - Coulee Region Joint Municipal Court
District Attorneys
La Crosse County District Attorney
Tim Gruenke
Jackson County District Attorney
Emily Hynek
La Crosse County Deputy District Attorney
Emily Ruud
Retired Judges
La Crosse County Circuit Court Judges
Todd Bjerke
Dale Pasell
Michael Mulroy
John Perlich
Monroe County Circuit Court Judge
J. David Rice
Trempealeau County Circuit Court Judge
John Damon
Municipal Court Judge
John Brinckman - Coulee Region Joint Municipal Court
Make a Plan to Vote
Your vote matters! The election will take place on April 1, 2025, and early voting options are available. Make a plan to vote on or before election day to help shape the future of justice in La Crosse County.
Contact
Have questions or want to learn more about the campaign? Feel free to reach out. I’d love to hear your thoughts and concerns about improving our justice system.
Email
joeveenstra4judge@gmail.com