Separation of Powers

Litigants have the right to request a substitute judge for their case if they follow certain procedures. Abrahamson held that the doctrine of separation of powers does not demand a strict division of functions among the three branches. Some powers are shared. The substitution of trial judges is an aspect of the judicial system which may be regulated by the legislature, subject to the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s authority to preserve the integrity of the judicial system and the doctrine of separation of powers.