Receive guidance and support at every step
The mission of the Wisconsin State Public Defenders is to provide the highest quality defense by focusing on each client’s goals, inspiring trust, and fearlessly advocating. We listen. We fight. We defend.
Learn the steps to being assigned a public defender and what fees you may be responsible for.
Find your public defender
Search for your local SPD office and get connected to people who can help.
Client fees and payments
SPD is required by state statute to assess attorney fees in adult cases. You can pay your fees online, by phone, or by mail.
In the event you are unable to pay your fees, there are still paths forward.
Don’t qualify for a public defender?
If you have applied for a public defender but are not financially eligible, the court can still determine indigency (need) based on individual circumstances, public justice, and sound policy.
To learn more, contact the courthouse in the county where your case is located.