Jan. 27, 2017 – West Bend, WI – After thorough recruitment and interview processes, Washington County is pleased to announce effective immediately, longtime Assistant County Attorney Brad Stern has been appointed as the new Washington County Attorney. Stern has served as an Assistant County Attorney since 2004, with prior experience in private practice in West Bend.
“I am delighted to announce Brad’s appointment to this crucial position,” said County Administrator Joshua Schoemann.
What started with 18 candidates for the role of County Attorney was narrowed down to three finalists who were interviewed by three different panels this past Monday, Jan. 23.
“After a rigorous day of interviews and a number of follow up discussions, it became clear as we went through the process that Brad was the consensus choice, and the best person for the job,” said Schoemann.
“It’s especially rewarding when we are able to promote one of our own. Brad clearly articulated his desire for the job, his enthusiasm to serve the citizens of our County and his vision to make the necessary changes to improve the department and the County. I am excited to work with Brad to continue to move the County in a new direction for the best of our citizens.”
Stern said, “I am honored to have been appointed to the post of County Attorney and look forward to serving the people of Washington County in my new capacity.  I also look forward to working closely with the talented group of employees throughout county government who have dedicated themselves to serving the public trust, and who work hard every day to continuously improve the quality of life here in Washington County. Serving the public is a great privilege and I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given by County Administrator Schoemann. I will serve in my new role with integrity and great pride.”
The County Attorney’s Office provides legal advice to the county board, its committees and county departments; drafts and reviews ordinances and resolutions for county board action; advises the county board with respect to parliamentary procedures; prosecutes mental commitment cases, guardianship, protective placement/services cases, termination of parental rights cases and shoreland, wetland, floodplain and sanitary code violations; attends county committee meetings and other county-related meetings; reviews contracts in which the county is a party and commences legal proceedings to collect on outstanding accounts due the county.
Stern is a graduate of Thomas M. Cooley Law School and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.  Prior to working in Washington County, he operated his own law practice specializing in criminal defense work. He currently lives in Grafton with his wife and six children. When not spending time with his family, Brad enjoys singing and playing the guitar, reading, cooking and writing.