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WISCR 20:1.4

Client Communication Rules for Wisconsin Law Firms

Wisconsin attorneys must keep clients reasonably informed about case status, promptly respond to information requests, and explain matters for informed decisions.

SCR 20:1.4 Key Requirements

  • 1Promptly inform clients of matters requiring consent
  • 2Consult about means to accomplish client objectives
  • 3Keep clients reasonably informed about case status
  • 4Respond promptly to reasonable information requests
  • 5Explain matters for informed decision-making
View official rule text

Additional Wisconsin Requirements

Language Access

Wisconsin does not have formal language access requirements for attorneys, but the state has growing Hispanic and Hmong communities, particularly in Milwaukee and the Fox Valley.

Key languages: Spanish and Hmong

Statute of Limitations

Attorneys must notify clients of applicable statutes of limitations. Wisconsin generally has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.

Wisconsin-Specific Considerations

  • Milwaukee and Madison markets with rural agricultural areas
  • Manufacturing and industrial injury cases are common
  • Harsh winters increase auto accidents and slip-falls
  • Strong workers' compensation practice

How Quilia Helps Wisconsin Firms Stay Compliant

  • Automated updates serve both urban and rural clients
  • Treatment tracking supports workers' comp and PI cases
  • Mobile platform reaches clients across Wisconsin
  • Secure messaging protects confidential communications
  • Communication logs demonstrate SCR 20:1.4 compliance

Wisconsin Legal Resources

State Bar of Wisconsin

Official WebsiteDiscipline & Ethics

Wisconsin Association for Justice(WAJ)

Trial lawyers association providing practice resources and advocacy.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions: Wisconsin Attorney Communication

What are Wisconsin attorney communication requirements?

Wisconsin SCR 20:1.4 requires keeping clients reasonably informed, responding promptly to inquiries, and explaining matters for informed decisions.

How do Wisconsin attorneys serve diverse markets?

Wisconsin attorneys balance Milwaukee sophistication with rural community service.

What are penalties for communication failures in WI?

The Office of Lawyer Regulation can pursue sanctions from private reprimand to revocation.

Does Wisconsin require written fee agreements?

Written agreements are required for contingency fees and recommended for all matters.

How does Quilia help Wisconsin firms?

Quilia automates client updates and serves both urban and rural Wisconsin effectively.

Are electronic communications accepted in Wisconsin?

Yes, electronic communications are fully accepted with appropriate security measures.

What communication issues lead to WI complaints?

Common complaints include failure to return calls, inadequate updates, and unresponsiveness.

How should WI PI attorneys handle communication?

Personal injury attorneys should provide regular updates on case status and treatment coordination.

Legal Terms Every Wisconsin Attorney Should Know

Clear communication requires understanding these fundamental concepts. Click any term to learn more.

NegligenceDamagesStatute of LimitationsLiabilitySettlementContingency FeeDiscoveryDuty of Care
Browse all legal terms →
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Quilia Legal Compliance Team
Primary Source: State Bar of Wisconsin

Keep Your Wisconsin Clients Informed - Automatically

Quilia helps Wisconsin law firms maintain SCR 20:1.4 compliance while reducing administrative burden and improving client satisfaction.

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