March 24, 2020 – At the request of the State Bar of Wisconsin, Gov. Tony Evers exempted “Legal Services” from the “Safer at Home” order issued this morning, identifying the profession as “essential business services.”
The order is effective 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2020, and remains in effect until Friday, April 24, 2020, or until a superseding order is issued.
“This issue was on the State Bar of Wisconsin’s radar last week as we anticipated the possibility for Wisconsin,” said Executive Director Larry J. Martin. “The State Bar of Wisconsin thanks Governor Evers for this consideration and, again, offers our assistance in serving the state’s citizens during these disruptions.”
Legal Services Recognized as Vital
The Governor recognized the vital role attorneys play at this time of uncertainty and our ability to help Wisconsinites address the challenges and worries facing them.
Section 13 (u) of the order reads as follows:
“Professional services. Professional services, such as legal or accounting services, insurance services, real estate services (including appraisal, home inspection, and title services). These services shall, to the greatest extent possible, use technology to avoid meeting in person, including virtual meetings, teleconference, and remote work (i.e., work from home).”
State Bar members should continue to practice social distancing and other preventative practices in serving clients and stay or work at home when possible.
Resources to Help State Bar Members
Members are invited to attend a series of free virtual town hall meeting forums, held every weekday until April 3, covering various areas of practice affected by the turn of events.
While the State Bar continues its operations from remote locations, State Bar members can continue to lean on us for the services and support you need, including our Practice411, Ethics Hotline, and WisLAP services.
In addition, here are some Coronavirus-related resources to help you through the challenges ahead:
