Wisconsin State Public Defender & Assigned Counsel Division

The Wisconsin State Public Defender & Assigned Counsel Division, located in Madison, is an administrative office of the Wisconsin State Public Defender (SPD). The SPD is responsible for contracting with outside counsel to represent indigent clients. They are committed to continuously improving their partnership with the private bar. The office attorneys are expected to represent clients ethically and competently. Although an attorney may meet the criteria for a case type certification, they may not be competent to represent every client whose case falls within that case type. Attorneys should not accept cases unless they are confident they have the experience and ability to provide appropriate representation in the case. All attorneys receiving case appointments are expected to meet minimum performance standards. The attorney shall provide zealous, effective and high-quality representation to the client at all stages of the appointed case. An individual must apply for a public defender by completing a detailed financial statement and agreeing to provide documentation concerning income, assets and debts for the person and the person’s spouse if any. For further assistance, you should first contact the Wisconsin State Public Defender & Assigned Counsel Division.