EDITOR’S NOTE: Hannah Dugan was part of the first batch of individuals that Milwaukee Independent interviewed after starting to publish as a daily news service in 2016. Dugan sat down for her interview before deciding to announce that she would run for the elected position of a Milwaukee County judge. What was published also included a video segment, which was standard at the time as a companion to the written Q&A. The dual format evolved to include a more in-depth video package over time, and then that part of the process was mostly retired after several years. Since international attention became focused on Judge Dugan in April 2025, this interview set remains the only one of its kind with her and a source of unfiltered information about her, in her own words. It remains a credit to her strong legal ethics, and offers important insight into Dugan’s passion for the rule of law.
Spending her legal career to help and provide equal justice, Hannah Dugan continues to use the law to remove class barriers and advance social change for those who are most vulnerable in our community.
With decades of experience in legal practice, nonprofit leadership, and systemic reform, Dugan has helped shape how Milwaukee approaches justice beyond the courtroom. Her efforts include expanding legal access for underserved communities, strengthening ethical standards, and improving institutional accountability. Whether guiding initiatives or representing individuals in need, she brings a disciplined commitment to fairness, public service, and meaningful change within the legal system.
