Endorsed by the Litigation Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin

Can’t tort this

In Holytz v. City of Milwaukee,¹ the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a landmark decision abolishing governmental immunity from tort claims. The Wisconsin legislature later codified the rule from Holytz, making state governmental entities liable for tortious conduct.² Yet exceptions to liability exist for public officials engaging in legislative, quasi-legislative, judicial, or quasi-judicial functions. But what does that really mean? Over 60 years later, the court has provided little guidance on what types of acts are immune from suit, leading to unpredictable and inconsistent results. 

Break it down

Cut through the confusion at Figuring Out Governmental Immunity. John A. Becker will show you how Wisconsin courts have interpreted governmental actions to make liability determinations in the past. You’ll discover precedent that can help you distinguish government acts that are immune from those that aren’t. Develop a better understanding of the difference between “ministerial” and “discretionary” duties and how to classify various duties performed by government employees.

Conquer the chaos surrounding governmental liability in Wisconsin with help from Figuring Out Governmental Immunity. 

 ¹ 17 Wis.2d 26 (1962)

 ² Wis. Stat. § 893.80(4) (2012)

Endorsed by the Litigation Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin

Can’t tort this

In Holytz v. City of Milwaukee,¹ the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a landmark decision abolishing governmental immunity from tort claims. The Wisconsin legislature later codified the rule from Holytz, making state governmental entities liable for tortious conduct.² Yet exceptions to liability exist for public officials engaging in legislative, quasi-legislative, judicial, or quasi-judicial functions. But what does that really mean? Over 60 years later, the court has provided little guidance on what types of acts are immune from suit, leading to unpredictable and inconsistent results. 

Break it down

Cut through the confusion at Figuring Out Governmental Immunity. John A. Becker will show you how Wisconsin courts have interpreted governmental actions to make liability determinations in the past.