Story perspectives

Wisconsin Supreme Court Bars Public Access to Guardianship Records

7/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled guardianship records sought by activist Ron Heuer and the Wisconsin Voter Alliance are not public.
Lower appellate courts split, with a Madison panel denying access and a Waukesha panel ordering release with redactions.
Justices Annette Ziegler and Rebecca Bradley dissented, saying the court’s definition of competency records was overbroad.
County attorney Sam Hall praised the decision for protecting privacy and dignity of vulnerable individuals.

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Story summary

The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled guardianship records sought by activist Ron Heuer and the Wisconsin Voter Alliance are not public.
Lower appellate courts split, with a Madison panel denying access and a Waukesha panel ordering release with redactions.
Justices Annette Ziegler and Rebecca Bradley dissented, saying the court’s definition of competency records was overbroad.
County attorney Sam Hall praised the decision for protecting privacy and dignity of vulnerable individuals.