Wisconsin § 973.18 - Notice of rights to appeal and representation.

Full text of Wisconsin Wisconsin Statutes § 973.18 — Notice of rights to appeal and representation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 973.18. Notice of rights to appeal and representation.

973.18(1) (1) In this section, “postconviction relief” and “sentencing” have the meanings ascribed in s. 809.30 (1) . 973.18(2) (2) The trial judge shall personally inform the defendant at the time of sentencing of the right to seek postconviction relief and, if indigent, the right to the assistance of the state public defender. 973.18(3) (3) Before adjourning the sentencing proceeding, the judge shall direct the defendant and defendant’s trial counsel to sign a form to be entered in the record, indicating that the lawyer has counseled the defendant regarding the decision to seek postconviction relief, and that the defendant understands that a notice of intent to pursue postconviction relief must be filed in the trial court within 20 days after sentencing for that right to be preserved. 973.18(4) (4) The judge shall direct the defendant’s counsel to confer with the defendant before signing the form, during the proceeding or as soon thereafter as practicable, and may make appropriate orders to allow the defendant to confer with counsel before being transferred to the state prison. The defendant shall be given a copy of the form. 973.18(5) (5) If the defendant desires to pursue postconviction relief, the defendant’s trial counsel shall file the notice required by s. 809.30 (2) (b) . 973.18 History History: Sup. Ct. Order, 123 Wis. 2d xi (1985). 973.18 Note Judicial Council Note, 1984: Sub. (2) is similar to prior s. 809.30 (1) (b). Subs. (3) and (4) codify State v. Argiz, 101 Wis. 2d 546 , 305 N.W.2d 124 (1981). Sub. (5) codifies trial counsel’s continuing duty to provide representation until appellate counsel is retained or appointed. Whitmore v. State, 56 Wis. 2d 706 , 203 NW 2d 56 (1973). [Re order effective July 1, 1985]

Source: official Wisconsin text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin § 973.18

What does Wisconsin Statutes § 973.18 cover?

Section 973.18 ("Notice of rights to appeal and representation.") is part of the Wisconsin Statutes, the codified statutory law of Wisconsin. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Wisconsin § 973.18?

A common citation format is "Wisconsin Statutes § 973.18" (Wisconsin). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Wisconsin law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Wisconsin official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.

How does Wisconsin § 973.18 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Wisconsin can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Wisconsin.