Transparency Talk: "Openness Should Win Out Over Interest in Collecting Fees"

WORT 89.9FM Madison · Sep 10, 2026 · 8m

Many people make use of Wisconsin Circuit Court Access to acquire information on court cases. But to actually see the paperwork for a case, you’ll have to stop by the clerk of circuit courts office in the county courthouse. And if you want to take any records with you when you leave, you’ll have to pay $1.25 per page for copies. Many just take pictures on their phone to avoid the fee, but according to the clerk’s office, this isn’t and has never been allowed. This week on “Transparency Talk”, hosts Chali Pittman and Bill Lueders voice their confusion about the rule, and Bill’s belief that it…