Legal Help Information

  1. Register in Probate staff, court personnel, and non-attorneys are unable to provide legal advice or legal interpretations.  Each case is unique.  It is important to remember each case may have specific differences which will need to be addressed and that each county may have specific court rules to be followed.
  2. If you have questions you are encouraged to consult an attorney.  Consulting an attorney with expertise in the specific case your are pursuing may be more affordable than you think. Look under "Attorneys" in the Yellow Pages in your local phone book. When making initial contact with an attorney you are encouraged to inquire if a fee will be charged for the inquiry, if they have current experience and knowledge in the specific case type, and the fee schedule and payment options.
  3. Visit these two computer lawsites (if you do not have access to the Internet at home or work, visit your local public library for assistance):
    1. Wisconsin State Law Library (see link below)

      Self-help guides and some legal forms are available on this website.

    2. State Bar of Wisconsin (see link below)

      Legal information and educational resources are available on this website.

  4. Call the Lawyer Referral and Information Service at (800) 362-9082 (if outside Wisconsin, call (608) 257-4666. This public service of the State Bar of Wisconsin offers a Lawyer Hotline, Lawyer Referral, and Community Referral. Although you will not receive legal advice, you will talk to a legal assistant who is experienced in analyzing potential legal problems and in helping you locate the best source of additional help.
  5. Court staff can provide general information about court rules, procedures and operations. Court staff can also provide certain forms and instructions. Court staff is not allowed to give legal advice or legal interpretations. For assistance in locating additional legal information, contact your local library or the Wisconsin State Law Library Reference Service at (800) 322-9755.