Wisconsin State Public Defender’s Appellate Division’s Madison Office

The Wisconsin State Public Defender's Office's (SPD) Appellate Division has a branch office located in Madison. This office represents indigent clients on appeal throughout Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Constitution and statutes guarantee the right to a direct appeal from a criminal conviction and other final judgments. In addition, the United States Constitution guarantees the right to the assistance of an appointed attorney where a corresponding right to appeal exists. The State Public Defender (SPD) Appellate Division (AD) provides this post-judgment (after the final judgment) legal representation (to persons who meet the SPD's financial eligibility restrictions) in the trial and appellate courts in criminal, civil commitment, sexually violent person commitment, protective placement, children in need of protection or services, juvenile delinquency and termination of parental rights cases. First, the attorney confers with the client regarding potential issues for appeal and reviews the transcripts of the trial court proceedings and the rest of the trial court record for legal error. Next, the attorney conducts further fact development and investigation and researches any potential legal issues if necessary. Then the attorney discusses their legal conclusions with the client. For further assistance, you should first contact the Wisconsin State Public Defender's Appellate Division in Madison.