: News Release February 2004: State Bar Launches Series of Life Planning Hotlines:

News Release February 2004: State Bar Launches Series of Life Planning Hotlines

To remind Wisconsin families about the importance of preparing for future health needs, the State Bar of Wisconsin has scheduled a series of Life Planning Hotlines to be conducted throughout the state during the next few months.

State Bar Launches Series of Life Planning Hotlines
Regional telephone hotlines are scheduled through April 1st

MADISON, Feburary 16, 2004 - To remind Wisconsin families about the importance of preparing for future health needs, the State Bar of Wisconsin has scheduled a series of Life Planning Hotlines to be conducted throughout the state during the next few months.

"The State Bar is working with city officials, local bar associations and the medical community to promote awareness of this public service. Families faced with medical emergencies can find themselves unprepared. These hotlines offer Wisconsin residents a chance to talk to volunteer lawyers about life planning questions," said State Bar President R. George Burnett.

Hosted by the law firm of Richie, Wickstrom and Wachs, LLP, the next Life Planning Hotline will take place in Eau Claire on Feb. 24. Callers can dial (877) 839-9500 from 5 to 7 p.m. to obtain information on living wills, medical powers of attorney, and declarations to physicians.

"Life Planning Day is a reminder to discuss health care decisions and put your wishes in writing before an emergency happens," said Burnett. "All hotlines are free and open to the public. We hope many Wisconsin residents will take advantage of this public service."

Subsequent hotlines are slated for March 16 in La Crosse; March 30 in the Fox Valley; and April 1 in Milwaukee. Since 1999, the State Bar has distributed more than one hundred thousand life planning kits. A Gift to Your Family provides information, instructions and medical forms. For more information visit http://www.legalexplorer.com/lifeplanning/life.asp.

The State Bar of Wisconsin is the mandatory professional association, created by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, for attorneys who hold a law license in Wisconsin. With more than 20,000 members, the State Bar aids the courts in improving the administration of justice, provides continuing legal education for its members to help them maintain their expertise, and assists Wisconsin lawyers in carrying out community service initiatives to educate the public about the legal system and the value of lawyers.

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