For Immediate Release
	CONTACT: Christi Powers State Bar of Wisconsin (800) 444-9404, ext. 6025 cpowers@wisbar.org

Brown County Bar receives award for exceptional public service

MADISON, April 7, 2003 - The Brown County Bar Association garnered an outstanding achievement award on Friday in Madison from the State Bar of Wisconsin. The award was presented at the 2003 Wisconsin Bar Leaders Conference (WBLC) that provides lawyer-leaders from local bar associations a forum to network and share ideas.

The Brown County Bar was recognized for creating a brochure translated in Spanish about what to do in case of a car accident. The need for the brochure arose after it was evident that some drivers left the scene of an accident due to unfamiliarity with Wisconsin law. More than 1,000 brochures were distributed to area churches, ethnic food stores, and work places with Spanish-speaking employees to promote awareness.

"With the substantial growth of the Spanish-speaking population in Brown County, our brochure has served a need for those who are unfamiliar with the law," said Atty. Brick Murphy, current president of the Brown County Bar. "Hopefully the brochure can be a helpful reminder about legal responsibility and what to do when an auto accident occurs." Murphy noted that Atty. Jim Sickel was also instrumental in developing the brochure.

Hosted by the State Bar of Wisconsin, the WBLC is well into its 20th year and recognizes county bar associations for volunteer and community service projects. Nearly 100 participants representing more than 50 county or specialty bar associations attended the day-long event.

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, and assists Wisconsin lawyers in carrying out initiatives to educate the public about the legal system.

For more information, call Kris Wenzel at (608) 250-6185

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