Judge Chris Taylor is a lifelong advocate for justice, fairness, and protecting the rights of all people. As a judge on the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, she brings a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to ensuring everyone gets a fair shot in our legal system.

She began her legal career as an attorney representing clients and ensuring they had access to justice. In 2020, Chris was appointed to the Dane County Circuit Court, where she served as a trial judge handling criminal, civil, and family cases. She quickly earned a reputation for being fair and respectful of every person who came into her courtroom. Her experience on the trial bench helped her see firsthand how critical it is for judges to listen and to recognize how their decisions affect people’s lives beyond the courtroom. 

Elected to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals in 2023, her judicial philosophy is grounded in fairness, constitutional integrity, and respect for the law. She knows how important it is for courts to be places where people feel heard, respected, and treated equally under the law.

Chris has also been a champion for public safety and victims’ rights. From working to improve protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, to upholding our laws and improving community safety as a judge, she believes everyone has a right to feel safe in their home and in their community. 

Prior to joining the bench, Judge Taylor served nearly a decade in the Wisconsin State Assembly, where she co-authored more than 250 bills and resolutions. She used her legal training to protect and enhance people’s rights, strengthen our democracy, and ensure access to affordable health care and fair wages. Prior to her legislative work, she was an attorney and public policy director for Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, where she defended constitutional rights and advocated for healthcare access in the Capitol.

Judge Taylor lives in Madison with her husband and their two sons. When she’s not working, you’ll find her cheering on her kids at sporting events, running through Madison’s parks, or enjoying live music. She’s proud to serve the people of Wisconsin—and to bring her experience, compassion, and integrity to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.