Circuit Court requests full-time law clerk amid budget concerns for 2026

The St. Croix County Public Protection meeting on April 3, 2025, focused on the financial performance of various departments and their budget requests for 2026. Key discussions included the circuit court's request for a new full-time law clerk position aimed at improving judicial efficiency, as well as significant budget overruns in the Clerk of Courts department.

The circuit court reported a positive financial outcome for 2024, finishing in the black, which indicates that revenues exceeded expenses. The proposed law clerk position is intended to assist judges and streamline court operations.

In contrast, the Clerk of Courts faced a substantial budget deficit of $152,000, primarily due to excessive spending on legal services, court-appointed counsel, and interpreter services. The department has consistently exceeded its budget for legal services, which includes costs for guardian ad litem and court-appointed attorneys for individuals who cannot afford representation. The challenges in recouping these costs were highlighted, as many clients lack the financial means to repay the expenses incurred.

Interpreter services also posed a significant financial burden, with costs rising from $25,000 to $73,000 over the past year due to the need for certified interpreters across a wide range of languages. Efforts to reduce these costs through new technology were discussed, although state regulations currently require in-person, certified interpreters for court proceedings.

The meeting concluded with the medical examiner's department also reporting a budget deficit for 2024, although the specifics of their financial situation were not detailed. Overall, the discussions underscored the financial challenges facing St. Croix County's public protection departments and the need for strategic planning to address these issues in the upcoming budget cycle.