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Testimonials

Attorney John Gatzke was kind, understanding and professional in handling my case. I always received prompt responses to my questions and inquiries and was very helpful in navigating through the red tape of SS benefits.
– J.A.
Bryant was able to get my points reduced. Overall good service. Will recommend others who are looking for representation in traffic violations
– P.P.
Attorney Bryant McFadden was great, very transparent and up front with everything regarding my case. His communication was clear and response times were fast. I have already referred people to him and will continue to do so.
– E.S.
Mr. Gatzke worked with me and now have received disability when it felt like a long shot. Woo Hoo.
– C.M.
John was very cordial, he was very compassionate and understanding, in my opinion he was extremely competent with numerous legal matters. He takes time with his clients which for me was a very comfortable environment for me. Call John first! And if you don't call him first before you retain an attorney do not make the mistake of not calling him!
– R.M.
John is an exceptional lawyer who handled my case in a kind and compassionate manner. He is truly one of the best in the business.
– T.K.
After being involved in a car accident, I hired John to handle my case. He was able to work with all the parties, insurance companies, healthcare providers and the defense attorney to get me the results I wanted. I believe John had my interest in mind the entire time, as he would lay out my options as the case evolved. Thanks John!
– D.M.
I came by recommendation to Gatzke law firm. I was welcomed and treated like my life and situation really mattered to them. They were available Always! If I left a message, they got right back to me. My attorney was Bryant McFadden, and he was so helpful. He explained everything in detail to me, and if I didn't understand, he would explain until I did. He was super supportive, very kind and helpful. He helped make my transition through this difficult time, a more bearable experience. I would recommend him to anyone.
– K.J.
Everyone at Gatzke Law was kind, caring, professional and did not charge enormous fees like most law firms. They are a very respectable company with knowledgeable staff that helped guide me in one of the worst times in my life. They were attentive, helpful and put me at ease knowing I was in great hands! I recommend my clients to them!
– C.A.
Excellent representation by Attorney Bryant McFadden at Gatzke Law! First class all the way! Very professional! Outstanding knowledge and expertise in knowing the law and navigating our case. We are extremely grateful for Attorney McFadden. Thank you, Bryant!
– S.B.
Bryant McFadden and the team at Gatzke Law office were always accommodating, timely, and patient as they helped our family establish a non-profit corporation for a memorial scholarship in rememberance of my father. They took the time to explain everything and offered a personal approach that always made us feel comfortable. I would reccomend Bryant and Gatzke Law for any legal services you may need.
– J.S.
Great staff! Very helpful.
– A.H.
Easy to work with and great results - friendly and professional!
– N.S.

Our Firm
Gatzke & McFadden Law Offices, is a general practice law firm
Meeting the varied legal needs of individuals, families & small businesses throughout Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties.
Our practice is broad, but our goal is clear: we strive to find the best possible outcome for our clients. We seek compensation for those who have been injured in vehicular accidents and in on-the-job accidents.
We provide relentless criminal defense to those charged with everything from traffic violations, including OWI, to white collar crimes. We help individuals and families reach divorce decrees that provide them with an optimistic outlook.

Our office handles a wide range of legal matters and recognizes that many of our practice areas may overlap with other areas.
This interdisciplinary method has been proven to provide our clients with a truly comprehensive and knowledgeable approach to their legal concerns. We provide legal help in personal injury, worker’s compensation, criminal defense, family law, estate planning and probate.
Recent Victories
Gatzke Law Stops Destruction of Evidence, Wins $1 Million Judgment in Wrongful Death Motorcycle Case
Milwaukee. The attorneys at the New Berlin firm, Gatzke Law, acted quickly following an accident to preserve critical evidence and then used that evidence to win a $1 million...
Read MoreGatzke Law Wins Stacking Argument, $1.76 Million Judgment.
Milwaukee. Gatzke Law won a $1.76 million judgment in a wrongful death motor vehicle accident case in Kenosha County. That verdict was more than three times the amount origin...
Read MoreNew Berlin Firm Wins $300,000 Award
Milwaukee. A Dousman man was awarded $300,000 for injuries suffered in an auto accident more than six years ago caused by a driver who fell asleep and ran a stoplight. A 43-y...
Read MoreWoman’s Shoulder Injury Results in Policy Limits Settlement
Milwaukee. A 62 year old West Allis woman, who was injured in an automobile accident, received a $300,000 settlement from the insurance company, according to court records re...
Read MoreMental Injuries Caused by a Personal Injury Accident
In a personal injury case, along with physical injuries suffered, mental injuries caused by your accident are relevant as well. As a result of someone else’s negligence, you may ...
Read MoreThe Dangers of Winter Driving
During these Wisconsin winter weather months, it is important to be aware of just how dangerous winter conditions can prove when we are behind the wheel. Did you know that each yea...
Read MoreDepartment of Justice Ordered to End Reliance on Private Prison Contracts
President Biden signed an executive order calling for a halt to the Department of Justice’s reliance on contracts with private prisons. The order asserts itself as part of Biden...
Read MoreStatistics Reveal Reality of Prevalence of Fatal Car Crashes
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website offers statistics detailing the number of fatalities that have resulted from different car crash types. 56 percent of fata...
Read MoreHow to Secure a Beneficial Fresh Start Post Divorce
According to a Business Insider article, opinions about divorce in the United States have evolved. It has become clear to many that divorce may be a crucial choice, due to a pletho...
Read MoreWhat Are the Penalties for a First-Time Owi in Wisconsin?
If you are charged with a first-time OWI in Wisconsin, you will be facing fines, a revocation of your license and the requirement of an ignition interlock device if your BAC was .1...
Read MoreHow to Heal After Your Divorce
At Gatzke and McFadden Law Offices, we understand that the divorce process surely is not absent of emotion. Here are some tips on how to heal from a divorce in the most beneficial ...
Read MoreRecommendations for Driving in Wet Weather Conditions
Did you know that 1.2 million traffic deaths are caused by wet pavements every year? When it comes to driving in the rain, there are certain precautions you should take. Inform you...
Read MoreAge of Consent in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, the age of consent is 18 years old. According to the Wisconsin Statutes, “Sexual intercourse with a child age 16 or older” is considered a Class A misdemeanor. Se...
Read MoreTraffic Tickets in Wisconsin
Many assume your first traffic ticket for a moving violation is no big deal. However, it will most likely lead to your insurance rates increasing by 27 percent, for a minimum of 5 ...
Read MoreStandard Field Sobriety Tests
If law enforcement pulls you over with a suspicion that you are driving under the influence, three standardized field sobriety tests may be administered. The three standardized tes...
Read MoreHow to Avoid Driving While Drowsy
It is a widely known fact that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for drivers and others who exist on the road. However, it is not as often discussed that...
Read MoreWhat Is a Guardian Ad Litem?
A guardian ad litem is an individual, (usually an attorney), who is appointed by the court in cases that involve minors. A GAL deeply examines the details of the child’s situatio...
Read MoreRules To Follow During a Traffic Stop
The Wisconsin State Patrol supplies “guidelines for motorists who are stopped by state patrol”. These guidelines include ensuring your hands are in plain sight throughout your ...
Read MoreHow Is Property Divided in a Wisconsin Divorce?
Wisconsin follows the community property model when it comes to division of marital property. This means that marital property is simply divided down the middle (50/50). Before thi...
Read MoreHow Does the Driving Point System Work in Wisconsin?
If you are convicted of a traffic violation, this conviction will result in demerit points being added to your record. If you accumulate 12 or more points during the course of 12 m...
Read MoreSlip & Fall Facts
Here are some slip & fall facts provided by the National Floor Safety Institute: Falls represent the leading cause of hospital emergency room visits. Each year, 8 million hospi...
Read MoreChild Support Order Modifications in Wisconsin
If you wish for a child support order to be changed, this is known as an “order modification”. A child support change can only be done by a court. Before a court order occurs,...
Read MoreMay Marks Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Amid the pandemic, motorcycle and scooter sales rose by 11.4 percent. As more people head out on the road, AAA offers up tips to bikers and drivers, on how to avoid motorcycle cras...
Read MoreHow is Spousal Maintenance Determined?
How is spousal maintenance determined in a Wisconsin divorce? It is determined by the court. When determining a spousal maintenance order, the court examines specific factors. Such...
Read MoreSuspended or Revoked License in Wisconsin
If you drive with a suspended or revoked license in Wisconsin, a conviction may entail fines and an additional revocation. These are typically civil offenses. However, if the licen...
Read MoreTraffic in the Pandemic
It wasn’t just your imagination; traffic really has been dangerous throughout the pandemic. State transportation data from 202 shows that crash fatalities spiked even as traffic ...
Read MoreFatal Bicycle Accidents
Did you know that the number of preventable deaths from bicycle accidents have increased by 37 percent in the last ten years? Fatal bicycle accidents typically peak in June and thr...
Read MoreMaritial Property Laws in Wisconsin
In a Wisconsin divorce, marital property is divided according to community laws. This means that if a divorce occurs, all marital property will be split equally between the spouses...
Read MoreOWI Penalties
If your BAC is between .17 and .199 while you are behind the wheel, this is known as an “excessive BAC”. The penalties for a BAC that falls within this range include: -doubled ...
Read MoreMarital Property Agreements
A prenuptial agreement and postnuptial agreement are both marital property agreements. They both dictate how marital assets will be divided if a divorce occurs. The difference betw...
Read MoreBrain Injuries
A brain injury has the ability to negatively inhibit every part of an individual’s life. This suffering often takes a toll on loved ones, as well. We often take our physical and ...
Read MoreWisconsin OWI Laws
As the years go on, Wisconsin OWI laws get increasingly stricter. In 2018, Senate Bill 135 under Wisconsin Act 172 was enacted. This bill stated that if you are convicted of a 4th ...
Read MoreChild Relocation Laws in Wisconsin
What are child relocation laws in Wisconsin? If you are moving 100 miles or more away from your coparent, this is known as a child relocation. In such cases, you must provide writt...
Read MoreTruck Accident
If you suffer a truck accident due to the negligence of another individual, contact us. Our attorneys are aware that personal injuries not only cause physical pain, but often emoti...
Read MoreReasonable Suspicion
In order to conduct a traffic stop, law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion. In other words, they must reasonably suspect that you are driving under the influence. Certain t...
Read MoreWhat Should You Do When Pulled Over?
Getting pulled over by a police officer can be an unnerving experience. It helps to know what to do. Follow these steps to protect your legal rights during a traffic stop....
Read MoreWhat Injuries May Result From a Motorcycle Accident?
Possible injuries include: -Internal organ damage -Road rash -Spinal chord injuries -Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) These are just some of the devastating injuries that can result...
Read MoreNo-Fault Divorce State
Wisconsin is a “no-fault” divorce state. What does that mean? It means it is not necessary for either spouse to demonstrate that the other has done something wrong such as comm...
Read MoreDivorced? Time To Update Your Estate Plan
It is a good idea to review and revise your estate planning documents after a divorce or any other major life change. Source: https://www.investopedia.com/rewriting-your-will-after...
Read MoreWhat Social Security Disability Benefits Are You Entitled To?
Having an experienced advocate on your side can make all the difference if your Social Security Disability claim has been denied. Source: https://www.aarp.org/retirement/social-sec...
Read MoreWrongful Death Verdict Split Among Victims
Stanley Johnson, father of Sesalie Dixon, filed the original wrongful death case against Ware shortly after Dixon’s death in December 2016. Source: https://www.wiscnews.com/bdc/n...
Read MoreReport Details Troubling Racial Disparities In Incarceration
A new national report says that 1 in every 36 Black residents in Wisconsin is incarcerated, the highest rate in the nation. Source: https://www.leadertelegram.com/news/daily-update...
Read MoreAre Wisconsin Employers Required To Carry Workers’ Comp Insurance?
Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation Act requires most businesses with at least three employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Source: https://www.thehartford.com...
Read MoreLawmakers Aim To Amend PTSD Presumption for Workers’ Comp
Wisconsin lawmakers are considering legislation that would amend the state’s current workers compensation presumption for post-traumatic stress disorder suffered by first respond...
Read MoreNew Technology For Combatting Drunk Driving
The regulations will take effect as early as 2026. Source: https://www.wsaw.com/2021/11/10/congress-creates-new-requirements-automakers-prevent-drunk-driving/...
Read MoreReckless Driving Laws Under The Microscope
Will the new attention given to reckless driving laws lead to increased enforcement activity? Source: https://www.tmj4.com/news/i-team/we-dont-have-a-lot-of-tools-wisconsins-reckle...
Read MoreA Tragic Reminder of the Dangers Facing Pedestrians
As Waukesha continues to mourn, the accident serves a tragic reminder of the dangers facing pedestrians. Even a holiday parade is not safe from recklessness and negligence. Source:...
Read MoreTroubling Fatal Crash Statistics
Wisconsin saw an increase in fatal accidents in 2020 despite fewer people commuting due to the pandemic. Will 2021 continue the troubling trend? Source: https://wisconsindot.gov/pa...
Read MoreSafety Tips For Winter Driving
The first winter storm of the year served as a great reminder to make safety a priority this winter. https://dma.wi.gov/DMA/wemnews/2021wemnews/ready211210...
Read MoreIcy Roads Caused Crashes Involving 40 Vehicles
The State Patrol said about 40 vehicles, including 15 to 20 semis, were involved in several crashes and slide-offs between Osseo and Northfield along I-94 Thursday. https://www.whs...
Read MoreChild Support Worker Arrested on Suspicion of Bribery
If the allegations are true, this worker’s actions could have resulted in parents avoiding punishments for not paying child support, leaving children without the resources th...
Read More1 Van and 16 Dogs in a Rollover Accident
Thankfully, the dogs had no injuries when they were checked after the crash happened according to the Big Bend Fire Department. The Waukesha Sheriff’s Department is investigating...
Read MoreDOJ Reaches $200,000 Agreement With Briggs & Stratton
The funds will be used to pay the workers’ compensation claims of the bankrupt company’s workers. https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/press/2022/220112-briggs-stratton.htm...
Read MoreWhat Are Your “Miranda” Rights?
“You have the right to remain silent…”. Yes, you really do! The Supreme Court recognized this right in the 1996 decision Miranda v. Arizona. Suspects are required...
Read MoreIs Probate Required?
Any Wisconsin estate in excess of $50,000 must go through probate unless the conditions are met for a specific exemption. Exemptions include assets that are jointly owned, assets w...
Read MoreHow is Jail Time Calculated in Wisconsin?
The calculation of jail time involves many different factors such as the severity of the crime, and if someone was a first offender. Click the link below to learn more! https://doc...
Read MoreShould Traffic Fines Scale With Income?
Do traffic laws place an unfair burden on drivers with lower income? https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2022/02/traffic-tickets-income-adjustment-rich/621452/...
Read MoreSole Custody is Not Likely
Think you will get “sole” custody? Think again. The courts in Wisconsin generally tend to favor joint legal custody as well as physical custody where possible....
Read More5 Estate Planning Tips to Look After Your Money
Planning carefully now ensures you will have a say in what happens to your financial assets once you’ve passed....
Read MoreEstate Planning Basics Checklist
Everyone can benefit from having an estate plan in place. An attorney can ensure your loved ones and assets are protected. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/estate-plann...
Read MoreRoth IRA as an Estate Planning Tool
A Roth IRA can be more than a retirement savings account; it can be used to grow money that can be passed to your heirs tax-free. https://www.elderlawanswers.com/using-a-roth-ira-a...
Read MoreClock Changes = More Accidents?
When examining the causes of car accidents, don’t overlook the changes we make to our clocks twice each year. Some studies have shown a negative health impact every time we c...
Read MoreWhat is a Guardian ad Litem (GAL)?
A guardian ad litem (GAL) is a court-appointed advocate for children in child custody disputes and other family law cases....
Read MoreWhat Workers’ Compensation Benefits are Available in Wisconsin?
Learn about what types of benefits are available to injured workers through workers’ compensation benefits in Wisconsin. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/how-much-are-...
Read MoreWhat to Do During a Traffic Stop
Follow these tips for protecting your rights and fulfilling your obligations during a traffic stop....
Read MoreWhat is SSDI?
SSDI is a type of disability benefit that covers disabled workers who have paid into Social Security through FICA taxes. People receiving this benefit typically have earned enough ...
Read MorePower of Attorney FAQs
Power of attorney is an important part of a comprehensive estate plan. Unfortunately, it is too often overlooked. Learn more about the benefits of having a power of attorney in pla...
Read MoreDivorce Can Be Hard, Let Us Help
Divorce can be tough. Not only for each spouse, but also for any children, pets, or other family members that may be involved. The divorce process is accomplished by negotiation, m...
Read MoreThings You SHOULD Do During a Traffic Stop
Getting pulled over can be scary if it is your first time or if you know you were doing something against the law. We have compiled a list of 5 things you SHOULD do during a traffi...
Read MoreWisconsin Worker’s Compensation
It is important for workers to understand that it is their right to work in a safe environment. Most employers are required to provide employees with job safety training and any eq...
Read More27/65 Rule
Have you heard of the 27/65 rule? This is a rule regarding basic traffic tickets. With your first ticket, you can likely expect a 27% increase in your insurance for the next 5 year...
Read MoreWhat to do in the Event of a Workplace Injury
Oh no, someone was injured at work! Do not panic. Linked are eight things that should be done after a workplace injury. We’ll add one more: get in touch with a workers’...
Read MoreHow Many Personal Injury Cases Go to Court?
Did you know that only about 4-5% of personal injury cases go to court? That means that about 95-96% of personal injury cases are solved pre-trial. Follow the link below for more i...
Read MoreWhat is a Guardianship?
A guardianship is a legal decision made by the court regarding who is allowed to make decisions for another person. The “guardian” is the person who is legally allowed ...
Read MoreFederal Drug Laws
There are many different types of drugs out there, all of which come with their own consequences. Click the link to read about the federal drug laws for each type of drug. If you o...
Read MoreWatch Out for These Construction Accidents
If you work a construction job, you know the hazards you face every day at work. It is important to always remain aware of your surroundings in order to stay safe. Watch out for th...
Read MoreCharges and Penalties for Vehicular Homicide Under the Influence
If you are driving under the influence and kill someone, you will not get off the hook just because you “didn’t mean to”. Generally, when this happens the defenda...
Read MoreThe Safest Seat in the Car for a Child May Shock You
The middle back seat is the worst place for a child, right? Actually, it is the safest! This seat is furthest from impact or airbags in the event of a collision. If you have more t...
Read More5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Filing for Divorce
Filing for divorce should not be strictly an emotional decision. It would be best if you put a lot of thought and effort into this life-changing action. Visit the link to find five...
Read MoreHow to Obtain a Police Report in Wisconsin
If you plan to file a claim for personal injury due to a car accident, you will need an accident report. If the police were called to the scene of the accident, they should have co...
Read MoreDrug Overdose Injuries on the Rise
If you are facing a drug overdose injury, we are here to help. You do not have to face this crisis alone. Preventable drug overdose deaths increased 34.4% from 2019 to 2020. We do ...
Read MoreLabor Day 2022 Safe Driving Tips
Are you ready for the final holiday weekend of the summer? Getting caught up in fun and forgetting to practice safe driving can be easy. Click the link here for some tips on how yo...
Read More13 Shocking Divorce Facts
When it comes to divorce, you cannot believe everything you hear. But, you can believe everything you read in the article linked below. Click to find out surprising facts about div...
Read MoreDangers of Roommate Syndrome
Do you think you and your spouse have become roommates more than marriage partners? Don’t worry; it happens to many couples. But, you need to make sure you nip it in the bud ...
Read MoreWhat Is Marital Liability?
Do you and your spouse have marital liability? This term refers to any debt you or your spouse incurred during the marriage. Learn more here....
Read MoreWhat Is Probate and How Does It Work?
How does probate work? Who is it available to? Are there any benefits? Click here to learn the answers to these questions and more!...
Read MoreLearn More About Us!
Before you take the leap to hire us, you should get to know us and how we can help you. Click here to watch our video! We would love to work with you....
Read MoreCraziest Speeding Excuses Ever Heard
Remember, the best excuse for speeding is always no excuse at all. Save your words for an experienced traffic defense attorney when stopped for going above the speed limit. Do not ...
Read MoreCoping With Life After Divorce
Divorce can be highly challenging for everyone involved. From the separation of assets to the division of parenting time, the aspects of divorce will test a person tremendously. Th...
Read MoreYour Super Lawyers
When facing legal troubles, you want to hire an attorney you can count on. Hiring a Super Lawyer will allow you to feel at ease knowing that one of the top 5% of attorneys in your ...
Read MoreThe Truth Behind Your Binge-Worthy Crime Series
Are you as into crime shows as the rest of America? We understand, the suspense and unknown draw you in episode after episode. But is homicide as prevalent in America as these show...
Read MoreWinter Driving Safety Tips
It’s that time of year again. Check out these tips for staying safe while driving this winter....
Read MoreWhy Is There an Age Restriction on Certain Cold Medicines?
Have you ever bought cold medicine such as DayQuil and wondered why you must be over 18 to purchase it? Particular cold and cough medicines contain pseudoephedrine, the number one ...
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