Samuel Lawton

Professional career

• Samuel L. Lawton is the current Branch 2 Circuit Court Judge for Barron County, Wisconsin, elected in April 2024 after running unopposed to fill the vacancy left by Judge J. Michael Bitney’s retirement.
• In summary: Samuel L. Lawton is a seasoned attorney now serving as Branch 2 Circuit Court Judge in Barron County, WI, elected in 2024 to fill a long-standing vacancy and to bring his legal expertise and community focus to the bench.
• The Branch 2 position in Barron County’s three-judge system became vacant in September 2023 after Judge Bitney retired.
• Elected without opposition and assumed the role as Barron County’s third judge
• Samuel L. Lawton Barron County Justice Center 1420 State Hwy 25 North, Room 2602 Barron, WI 54812 Phone: (715) 537‐6399

Education

Additional information

• He previously practiced in Rice Lake and Spooner, Wisconsin, and was associated with Lawton & Lawton, S.C., which closed in May 2024 following his election to the judgeship.
• Lawton declared his candidacy on October 3, 2023, and became the sole candidate for the April 2, 2024 election.
• Governor Tony Evers initiated a search, but the process was delayed.
• As Branch 2 Judge, Lawton presides over a wide range of cases, including criminal, family, and other circuit court matters.
• Judicial Assistant: Danielle Court Reporter: Alison Ostenson
• Samuel L. Lawton is a licensed attorney with extensive experience in criminal law, family law (divorce, custody, child support, guardianships, adoptions), bankruptcy, contracts, wills, trusts, and estates.