City Times Staff

A fourth candidate has entered the race for judge of Circuit Court Branch II.

Robert J. Shannon, 53, on Tuesday announced his candidacy for Portage County Circuit Court Judge.

Shannon made the announcement from Old Main on the UW-Stevens Point campus.

“I am honored to serve as your incumbent Branch II Circuit Court Judge,” Shannon said. “My duty on the bench has confirmed my respect for the people of our county.”

Shannon, a retired lawyer, has been serving in an appointment capacity since July, when Judge John V. Finn retired.

Since taking the bench in the summer, Shannon has handled family law and divorce, probate matters, small claims, children in need of protective services, felony and misdemeanor criminal cases, and civil and criminal jury trials.  

“A good judge is always prepared on the facts and the law, is always respectful and courteous, and always fair but firm,” Shannon said. “These are the goals that I pledge to always aspire to as your Branch II Portage County Judge.”

Shannon is the fourth lawyer to announce a campaign for the seat. Portage County Assistant District Attorney David Knaapen was the first to announce in June, followed by Trish Baker, Portage Co. Clerk of Courts, in Sept. and Jared Redfield, a local defense attorney, who announced his campaign in November.

The winner of the April 5, 2016 race will serve a six-year term.