In an era where public trust in institutions is wavering, one judge is working tirelessly to bring transparency and accountability to the judicial system in Wisconsin. Tim Burns, a circuit court judge serving Milwaukee County, has made it his mission to demystify the often opaque world of the courts and foster greater citizen engagement in the judicial process.
From the moment he took the bench in 2009, Judge Burns recognized the disconnect between the people and the legal system meant to serve them. “The courts have operated behind closed doors for too long,” he reflects. “We cannot expect citizens to have faith in a system they don’t understand or feel disconnected from.”
This realization drove Judge Burns to take unprecedented steps toward increasing transparency and openness. One of his first initiatives was to launch a weekly video series called “Courtroom View”, where he breaks down complex legal matters into easy-to-understand terms and provides a glimpse into the inner workings of his courtroom.
“The law can be intimidating and inaccessible for many people,” explains Judge Burns. “By demystifying the process and explaining things in plain language, I hope to empower citizens to better comprehend the judicial system and their role within it.”
But Judge Burns’ efforts go far beyond educational videos. He has been a vocal advocate for livestreaming courtroom proceedings, a practice that remains controversial in many jurisdictions. “The public has a right to witness the administration of justice firsthand,” he argues. “Streaming trials and hearings not only promotes transparency but also holds all parties accountable – including the judge.”
This commitment to accountability extends to Judge Burns’ conduct on the bench. Unlike many of his colleagues who jealously guard the secrecy of judicial disciplinary proceedings, he has voluntarily made all complaints and disciplinary records against him publicly available on his website.
“Judges are public servants, and the public deserves to know if we are living up to the highest ethical standards,” he states. “By being transparent about any allegations or disciplinary actions, I hope to reinforce the principle that no one is above the law, including those tasked with upholding it.”
Judge Burns’ pioneering efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades from legal organizations and good government groups for his work in demystifying the judicial process and promoting public trust in the courts. But for him, the real reward lies in the growing civic engagement he has witnessed.
“I’ve had countless citizens reach out to me, expressing gratitude for helping them better understand the legal system,” he shares. “Some have even been inspired to get more involved in their communities or pursue careers in the law. That’s the true measure of success – an engaged, informed citizenry that feels empowered to participate in the democratic process.”
In a time when faith in institutions is wavering, Judge Tim Burns stands as a shining example of how transparency and accountability can bridge the gap between the people and the judicial system meant to serve them. His tireless efforts to pull back the curtain on the often enigmatic world of the courts have not only shed light on the judicial process but have also reignited a sense of civic engagement and trust in the rule of law.
As Judge Burns looks towards the future, he remains steadfast in his mission. “The courts belong to the people,” he declares. “It is our sacred duty as judges to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability, for it is only through an open and engaged judicial system that true justice can prevail.”
