Tanner new clerk of circuit court
(Left to right) Former Clerk of Circuit Court Nancy Dowling, Circuit Court Judge Lukas Steiner, current Clerk of Circuit Court Holly Tanner, Adams County Clerk of Circuit Court Miranda Christensen, District Court Administrator Anya Crossland and Karen Martin. Steiner swore in Tanner as the new clerk of court for Crawford County on July 11. On the same day, the county thanked Dowling for her years of service. (Steve Van Kooten/Courier Press)
By Steve Van Kooten
Crawford County’s Circuit Court experienced a major change on July 11 when the judge appointed Holly Tanner as the new clerk of circuit court. Tanner previously worked as the clerk of court’s chief deputy.
“I’ve always had an interest in the legal system, particularly in how it functions at the local level and how it impacts people’s daily lives,” she said. “I was drawn to the sense of purpose and the public service aspect of the role.”
Tanner grew up in Prairie du Chien and, after graduating from high school, completed an associate’s degree at Madison Area Technical College.
She worked in the financial and title industries for several years before switching to the circuit court system in April of 2021, which she said “felt like a natural fit” for her.
“I find the work meaningful, as it allows me to serve the community while being part of something greater than myself,” she said. “The most rewarding part of my job is being part of a system that upholds justice and fairness. It’s meaningful to know that we’re providing procedural support during some of the most important moments in people’s lives.”
The clerk of circuit court is a four-year elected position in Wisconsin; however, in the case of a retirement or resignation, the county’s circuit court judge or a majority of judges can appoint someone to fill that role.
Tanner succeeds Nancy Dowling, who headed the Clerk of Circuit Court Office in Crawford County for many years.
After Circuit Court Judge Lukas Steiner swore Tanner in, Dowling said that the county “is in good hands.”
“Nancy was a valuable mentor during my time as chief deputy. She was always willing to share her extensive knowledge and experience with patience, understanding and clarity. She led by example, demonstrating her dedication to public service,” said Tanner.
She added that Dowling’s retirement caps “many years of dedicated service, experience and leadership.”
“The solid foundation she has built gives us confidence in a seamless transition. We are truly grateful for her commitment.”
The Clerk of Circuit Court Office is part of the judicial system, managing court records, processing legal filings and helping court procedures run effectively as they process cases.
“Our office handles a wide range of responsibilities, from maintaining accurate records and processing filings to taking minutes in court. We work closely with judges, attorneys and other county officials to ensure everything operates efficiently and according to the law,” said Tanner.
She pointed out that the clerk’s office is one of the main public-facing branches of the judicial system.
“Whether someone is paying a fine, filing a case or trying to navigate the court process, we’re there to guide them [procedurally] and help make the system more accessible.”
