Online
To make a payment online, you can use the Wisconsin State Public Defender Portal linked below. You will need your SPD ID number.
How to pay
The collection of fees for public defenders is mandated by law (Wisconsin State Statute 977.075). Fees are based on the WI State Statute with which you are being charged.
By mail
Send a check or money order to:
Wisconsin State Public Defenders
PO Box 7923 Madison, WI 53707
Please include your name, birthdate, and contact information with your payment. Please do not mail cash.
We understand these fees can still be barriers for some people.
For each case type, there is a maximum (full) payment amount and a lower prepayment amount. By paying the prepayment amount within 60 days, you can satisfy your payment obligations for an amount substantially less than the full payment amount. As an example, the prepayment amount in a misdemeanor case is $60 whereas the full payment amount is $240.
If you require additional time to pay your fee, you may request an extension.
According to Act 129, Wisconsin State Statute 977.075, the SPD can extend the due date for up to 60 days. You may contact the SPD by calling 1-800-445-2230 or mailing your correspondence to SPD at P.O. Box 7923, Madison, WI 53707-7923.
If you do not feel you are able to pay your fee, you may complete an Ability-to-Pay Form.
The form must be received by the SPD Client Accounts and Verification Unit (CAVU) within 120 days from the date you were issued your payment envelope. When the Ability-to-Pay Form is received by CAVU it will be assessed based on the information you provided, a determination will be made using set criteria as to whether you qualify for “Unable to Pay” status. If the form is not filled out completely or should a discrepancy be determined, the form will be returned to you for further clarification. You will have an additional 30 days to return the form with updated information.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I have to pay?
SPD is required by law to collect attorney fees in adult cases (Wisconsin State Statutes 977.075). The fees collected help to cover administrative costs of the representation; the money does not go to the attorney.
Fee amounts are based on the average length and complexity of the different types of cases; they are not calculated on an hourly basis in each individual case. For each case type, there is a full payment amount and a lower prepayment amount. For example, the prepayment amount in a misdemeanor case is $60 whereas the full payment amount is $240.
What do I owe?
Fee amounts are based on the average length and complexity of the different types of cases; they are not calculated on an hourly basis in each individual case. For each case type, there is a full payment amount and a lower prepayment amount. For example, the prepayment amount in a misdemeanor case is $60 whereas the full payment amount is $240.
How will I know exactly what fee to pay and when it needs to be paid?
You will receive a payment envelope from your local SPD office. When an attorney is appointed to your case, you will receive a reminder letter from the SPD Client Accounts and Verification Unit (CAVU) with information about the amount owed, timeline for paying, and what to do if you believe you cannot pay any amount.
What if I can’t pay?
SPD can extend the due date for up to 60 days. Call 1-800-445-2230 to request an extension.
If you cannot pay any amount, please fill out an Ability to Pay Form (English & Spanish) within 120 days from the date you were issued your payment envelope. Return the completed form to P.O. Box 7923, Madison, WI 53707.
What happens if I am found “Unable to Pay”?
Your account will not be forwarded to the private collection agency. It will remain in “Unable to Pay” status until either you have made payment arrangements or the account has reached the criteria for the debt to be written off. If at some point your financial situation changes and you are able to make payments, you will need to contact SPD to set up a payment plan.
What happens if I am found "Able to Pay"?
If payment is not received by the due date, the fee will be assessed at the full amount and forwarded to the private collection agency.
Why was my account sent to a private collection agency?
All accounts that are not paid within 150 days from the date an attorney is appointed to the case are sent to the private collection agency, Evergreen Professional Recoveries, for further collection efforts. The collection agency will notify you that they are now servicing your debt.
Evergreen Professional Recoveries
12100 N.E. 195th St.
Suite #125
Bothell, WA, 98011
Website: www.everprof.com
Phone number: 800-241-1305