On Point

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COA holds plea questionnaire and waiver of counsel forms insufficient to shift burden for collateral attack

State v. Matthew John Flynn, 2024AP2306-CR, 12/17/25, District II (ineligible for publication); case activity

Flynn appeals his operating while intoxicated, third offense, conviction and an order denying his collateral attack motion. He argues that the circuit court erred in denying his motion because he alleged sufficient facts to suggest that the prior conviction did not rest upon a knowing, intelligent, and voluntary waiver of his right to counsel. COA affirms.

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COA rejects challenge to circuit court’s exercise of discretion on disposition determination

Marquette County DHS v. J.J., 2025AP1963, 1964 & 1965, 12/18/25, District IV (ineligible for publication); case activity

J.J. stipulated to the existence of grounds for termination but contested disposition. He now appeals the orders terminating his parental rights to three of his children, arguing that the circuit court erred because it based its termination decision in part on his poverty. COA concludes that the court did not erroneously exercise its discretion and affirms.

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COA affirms continuing protective placement over sufficiency challenge in a “close case.”

Eau Claire County v. R.B.-K., 2025AP1466, 12/16/25, District III (ineligible for publication); case activity

In a “close case,” the COA affirmed continuing protective placement over a challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence that “Rory” was a danger to himself.

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Publication Orders for October, November and December

As usual, we bring you coverage of COA’s orders regarding publication, this time for October, November and December.

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Press Releases

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Wisconsin State Public Defenders and UW Law announce revamped Public Defender Project, bringing real-world experience into the classroom

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SPD recognizes outstanding attorneys and advocates at 2025 awards ceremony

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SPD Statement on Bill LRB-0779

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Tom Reed Retires from SPD After More Than 40 Years of Service

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Gina Pruski Presented with 2024 Lifetime of Service Award

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Wisconsin State Public Defender’s Office Announces 2024 Award Recipients

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