Legal Assistance

Court personnel cannot provide legal advice or legal counsel. You are encouraged to consult an attorney of your own. Court proceedings can have a significant impact on your rights, your life, and your future. Court decisions and orders are not easily reversed or reviewed at a later date, if at all. 

The Wisconsin State Public Defender’s Office (SPD) Trial Division provides legal representation at the circuit court (trial court) level in cases specified by state law. Trial Division cases include criminal, civil commitment, protective placement (personal guardianship), revocation of conditional liberty (probation, parole, or extended supervision), termination of parental rights, and juvenile delinquency proceedings. The Trial Division also handles certain other juvenile court matters and proceedings.

All adult applicants for SPD representation are required by state law to meet financial guidelines in order to qualify for appointment of an attorney by the SPD, other than in proceedings under chapters 51 and 55.