Wisconsin State Public Defenders Office

The SPD has been providing "justice for all" since 1977, and is an independent, executive-branch state agency that ensures Wisconsin meets its constitutional requirement of providing legal representation to the indigent.

The SPD is proud of its mission and its vision. Mission statement: The mission of the Wisconsin State Public Defender is to zealously represent clients, protect constitutional rights, and advocate for an effective and fair criminal justice system. Our commitment is to treat our clients with dignity and compassion. Vision statement: The Wisconsin State Public Defender Office will lead the way in protecting justice for all.

The agency provides legal representation to the indigent throughout the state in all of Wisconsin's 72 counties. Organizationally, the SPD has 37 local trial offices, 2 appellate offices and a central administrative office. The agency utilizes staff attorneys as well as contract private attorneys (to handle conflict and overflow cases).