State of Wisconsin SPD

Attorneys must be certified by the Wisconsin State Public Defender before they can be given case appointments. There are several levels of trial and appellate certification. Certification levels are based on the complexity of the cases and/or the need for specialized training. Each certification level requires a different level of experience or training. All certification levels require that the attorney request certification and that the attorney is licensed in good standing to practice law in this state.

All attorneys receiving case appointments from the Wisconsin State Public Defender are expected to meet the
Minimum Attorney Performance Standards for Appointed Private Bar Counsel.

and/or

Appellate Performance Standards

Attorney Certification Levels At A Glance

Certification Rules Effective 7/1/10

Initial certification requires the general application form plus the form(s) for the case type(s) the attorney is applying for. For subsequent certification requests attorneys ordinarily need not resubmit a general application. However, during the transition to the new certification standards the SPD will be asking currently certified attorneys to submit a general application (and required documentation) when they next apply for a new certification type.

General Certification Application

Certification Application – Misdemeanors

Certification Application – Felonies, juvenile, mental health and revocation cases

Trial Litigation/Training Form

Certification Application – Class A felonies

Certification Application – Appellate cases

Appellate Litigation/Training Form