Hannah Dugan’s supporters have created a legal defense fund to fight what the group calls an “unprecedented attack on the independent judiciary by the federal government” as the judge fights charges she interfered with immigration officers.
The defense fund also announced today Dugan intends to return to the Milwaukee County bench. In anticipation of that, there will be a series of restrictions on donations, including no contributions from Milwaukee County residents or any parties with matters pending before the Milwaukee County Circuit Court.
Dugan’s case has drawn national attention. Ahead of her announcement, legal observers expected a legal defense fund would draw national donations.
Former Supreme Court Justice Janine Geske will serve as the trustee overseeing the fund.
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“Because the criminal charges are unique to a member of the judiciary, and the prosecution poses a host of new questions of law, it will be critical for Judge Dugan to have the significant resources needed to defend herself and the integrity of an independent judiciary,” the fund said.
Dugan has assembled a high-profile legal team for her case, including former Solicitor General Paul Clement and former U.S. Attorney Steve Biskupic, among others.
The group said the fund’s creation was consistent with the state’s judicial rule and code of ethics. Any contributions to the fund would be reported on Dugan’s annual ethics statement, which is due each spring.
The other restrictions include no donations from:
- Licensed attorneys who practice in Milwaukee County.
- Lobbyists or lobbying firms.
- Member of the Wisconsin judiciary.
- Any Milwaukee County employees.
- Non-U.S. residents.
