New judge appointed for Eau Claire County

EAU CLAIRE — Eau Claire County has a new judge with Gov. Tony Evers’ appointment of Douglas Hoffer to the county’s second branch judgeship.

Hoffer will succeed Judge Michael Schumacher, who has resigned. Hoffer’s term will end July 31, 2025.

Hoffer is no stranger to Eau Claire legal circles, working in the city attorney’s office since 2013, according to the announcement of his appointment. Prior to that he worked as an associate at the firm of De La Mora & De La Mora in Elm Grove, where he represented both municipal and private clients.

Evers praised Hoffer as “a highly regarded attorney known for his integrity and legal acumen” in the release announcing the appointment. The comments were echoed by City Attorney Steven Nick, who said he will miss working with Hoffer but expects him to “make an excellent judge and continue to serve our community very well.

Eau Claire County Judge Jon Theisen said it was a good selection.

"Doug Hoffer is among the select attorneys who give me pause every time they enter my courtroom," Theisen said. "Attorney Hoffer forces me to remain vigilant, fully aware that he is way smarter than me."

Chippewa County Judge Steve Gibbs applauded Evers for his selection of Hoffer.

"He is smart, hard-working, and a scholar of the law," Gibbs said. "The citizens of Eau Claire County will be well-served by Doug. He's a good guy and he's very smart."

Eau Claire County Corporation Counsel Sharon McIlquham said she has routinely worked with Hoffer on projects the city and county do together.

"He is a very well respected attorney with extensive experience in court proceedings, including arguing cases to the Supreme Court," McIlquham said. "His integrity is above reproach, and he will be an excellent judge."

Hoffer received his degree from the law school at Marquette University. He also serves as president of the Chippewa Valley Museum Foundation’s board and on the Leadership Eau Claire committee, part of the chamber of commerce.