The
Lawyer Hotline, part of the State Bar of Wisconsin's
Lawyer Referral Service (LRS), connects Wisconsin residents with volunteer attorneys who can answer
basic legal questions in just a few minutes.
Hotline volunteers return calls arranged by LRS staff and provide general legal guidance on topics such as
landlord/tenant issues, small claims, family law, simple wills, bankruptcy, and traffic matters.
LRS screens each question in advance and sends it to volunteers before their session. Volunteers aren't expected to review documents, address complex procedures, or conduct research. For public-sector attorneys, the State Bar provides
liability coverage through
Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company.
Ways to Volunteer:
Hometown Hotline:
Join a two-hour session in your area. A host attorney or firm provides office space, and the Bar covers
phone, food, and beverage costs.
Law Firm Hotline:
Firms with two or more volunteers can host a Hotline session on-site or virtually. The Bar again covers
phone and refreshment expenses.
Community Impact
Your participation helps neighbors in need and builds goodwill in your community. The Bar promotes your involvement with
press releases to local media, highlighting your contribution.
Just
two hours of your time can make a lasting difference for someone who truly needs help.
Questions? Contact
LRS@wisbar.org to learn more or sign up.
