Wisconsin is a "blue sky" state; there is a statutory presumption in favor of access to public records and meetings. But there are limits to that access. In 2003, the legislature amended the Public Records Law to provide additional rights for the subjects of public records. If you don't know what these limits and rights are, you need the State Bar’s CLE Books publication, The Wisconsin Public Records and Open Meetings Handbook.

The Handbook, produced in cooperation with the State Bar's Government Lawyers Division, is a thorough exploration of these two laws. Part One discusses the practical applications of the Public Records Law, including the notice provisions created by the 2003 amendment. There is also guidance on the processes for requesting records, responding to records requests, and applicable time limits. Part Two takes a practical look at the Open Meetings Law, discussing the definition of "open," notice requirements, when a meeting may be closed to the public, and enforcement. Both laws are reprinted in full in the appendix. A comprehensive index makes finding the answers to specific questions easy.

Whether you represent a governmental entity or employee, or a private citizen seeking information from the government, this handbook will be your guide to Wisconsin's public records and open meetings laws.

I. Public Records Law

1. Overview of Wisconsin’s Public Records Law
2. Making and Responding to a Public Records Request
3. Privileges
4. Access to Personnel Records in the Custody of a Public Official
5. Law Enforcement Records
6. Pupil and Juvenile Records in the Possession of a School District
7. Contractors’ Records
8. Fees a Records Custodian May Charge
9. Enforcement
10. Issues Involving Electronic Public Records

II. Open Meetings Law

11. Coverage of the Open Meetings Law
12. Definition of "Meeting"
13. Accessibility and Openness
14. Notice
15. Voting and Record Keeping
16. Closed Meetings
17. Enforcement and Penalties

Appendices

1. Selected Public Records and Open Meetings Rules and Statutes
2. Sample Notices Concerning Record Requests
3. Key Cases
4. Statutory Exceptions
5. City of Baraboo Joint Review Board Meeting: Public Notice
6. Verified Open Meetings Law Complaint
7. Article: Rediscovering the Lost Art of Verbal Conversation and Decreasing Your Legal Liability

8 1/2" x 11" paperback
411 pp.; 3rd ed. 2008

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