The Oneida Family Court is undergoing a transition as incoming judge Marcus Zelenski takes over for outgoing judge Rob Collins.
“I’ve had the opportunity to be the family court judge for the Oneida Nation for the past three plus years. It’s been an amazing experience; however in July of 2016 I was sought out by a small law firm in Neenah, Wisconsin. The law firm has a tremendous reputation and it was an opportunity that at this point of time I really couldn’t pass up,” said Collins.
Collins was able to work with Zelenski for two weeks to help him transition into his new position.
“It’s a great honor to step into this role. I have really big shoes to fill, and I’m excited at the opportunity of coming in and contributing,” said Zelenski.
Zelenski grew up in the town of East Troy in southeastern Wisconsin. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Legal Studies.
He then attended the University of Tulsa: College of Law in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he received his juris doctor degree.
Zelenski returned to Wisconsin and served as the Child Support and Social Services Attorney for the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. For the past three years, he served as Assistant Corporation Counsel for Brown County, working primarily with the Brown County Child Support Agency.
“I’m excited to get back to being involved with tribal law. I didn’t get a whole lot of that with Brown County, I missed it, and I’m excited to be back with it,” said Zelenski.
Collins will continue to focus on family law in his new position, and may be called on to fill in for Zelenski if needed.
“I’m really appreciative of the fact that I had an opportunity to serve the Oneida community. Unfortunately, family law cases often times involve a lot of emotions, and I really hope that those parties that have come through here have found some peace within their relationships. Many of the parties have gone through the peace making process, which I feel is a vital step in improving the co-parenting and communications between the parties,” said Zelinski.
