Jeremy Ratliff
Editor
As of late-November, Ailani Taylor joined the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney (ADA).
As District Attorney Galen Bayne-Allison explains, the creation of Taylor’s position came on the heels of a recent initiative by the state legislature for not only additional Assistant District Attorney positions in counties statewide, but pay progression for those positions.
A native of Chicago, Taylor is a 2015 graduate of the University of Illinois-Chicago, where she majored in Psychology and Criminology. Upon graduation, Taylor immediately pursued law school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Prior to accepting the position with the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office, Taylor held a private practice in Wausau where she represented clients in various realms of law, including family, civil and criminal law.
“Growing up in Chicago, I was interested in a change from what I was used to,” Taylor explains, when asked of what attracted her to the northwoods.
As for her interest in a position with Lincoln County, Taylor cites both the impression left upon her by judicial staff as well as opportunties for advancement and professional development.
“While practicing in Wausau, I worked with clients in neighboring counties. When working with Lincoln County staff, I always felt a positive environment. The staff here have always been very welcoming and helpful,” she adds.
“I found that experience very meaningful, especially as a new attorney in the area. So when I learned of the opportunity to work with Lincoln County, aside from many other opportunities, Lincoln County really was my first choice.”
As Taylor further explains, her first meeting with DA and courthouse staff, as well as local judges, left a very positive impression.
“I knew from past experience, the environment here was just amazing. But once I had the opportunity to meet the courthouse staff and the judges, I knew I made the right choice. Most of all, I felt a sense of support for professional development. It was clear the staff here were ready and willing to support me in growing in my career, and that really meant a lot to me.”
While Lincoln County Assistant District Attorney Taylor holds future aspirations of holding the office of District Attorney or Circuit Court Judge.
“In addition to serving our communities as Assistant District Attorney, I am very excited to take advantage of opportunities for getting involved in our local communities. Community involvement is very important to me. I cannot begin to express how much of an honor and privilege it is for me to be here. I look forward to serving the citizens of Lincoln County and ensuring justice is served in a fair and impartial manner.”