He is known locally for expressing his opinion in the courtroom and for giving the accused harsh and sometimes painful lectures during sentencing.

But lawyers who have appeared regularly in his courtroom say the judge’s recent criticisms are irrelevant, with some saying his rulings on the Rittenhouse motions reflect Schroeder’s willingness to ensure that the defendants can present their case at trial.

Kenosha-based defense attorney Terry Rose has practiced law for 54 years, spending more time than any other attorney in Schroeder’s courtroom. “I think he’s very fair in a trial and allows a criminal accused to present his case,” Rose said. “Justice Schroeder is someone who is very aware of individual liberty… he is very respectful of the Bill of Rights and willing to uphold those rights.”

Another seasoned defense attorney from Southeastern Wisconsin, who wanted to be identified by name, said Schroeder had a reputation in the region as a harsh judge, but that reputation is focused on sentencing, not on the way he oversees trials.

“I would say that he is very respectful of the rights of the accused enumerated in the Constitution which guarantee the right to a fair trial, the right to cross-examine government witnesses and the right to present a defense,” he said. ‘lawyer. “He thinks these rights are constitutionally enshrined for good reason, and he allows defense lawyers to present a defense. “