Section 51.60. Appointment of counsel.  


Latest version.
  • (1) Adults.
    (a) In any situation under this chapter in which an adult individual has a right to be represented by counsel, the individual shall be referred as soon as practicable to the state public defender, who shall appoint counsel for the individual under s. 977.08 without a determination of indigency.
    (b) Except as provided in s. 51.45 (13) (b) 2. , par. (a) does not apply if the individual knowingly and voluntarily waives counsel.
    (2) Minors. In any situation under this chapter in which a minor has a right to be represented by counsel, counsel for the minor shall be appointed as provided in s. 48.23 (4) .
    (3) Retained counsel. Notwithstanding subs. (1) and (2) , an individual subject to proceedings under this chapter is entitled to retain counsel of his or her own choosing at his or her own expense.