Wisconsin Administrative Law

How We Can Help

We offer full-service representation in administrative matters, from pre-filing strategy through final appeal. Our services include:

• Defense in professional licensing and disciplinary proceedings (boards and licensing agencies).
• Representation in administrative hearings and contested case proceedings.
• Rulemaking challenges and regulatory interpretation.
• Permit and licensing applications, renewals, and enforcement responses.
• Negotiation of settlements and consent decrees with agencies.
• Judicial review and appeals of agency decisions in state court.
• Regulatory compliance counseling and internal investigations.

We tailor our approach to the procedural rules and timelines that govern administrative matters and coordinate closely with experts when technical or scientific issues are involved.

Agencies We Appear Before

We routinely represent clients before Wisconsin state agencies and commissions, including:

• Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD)
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
• Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)
• Labor and Industry Review Commission (LIRC)
• Department of Administration (DOA)
• Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)

We also handle matters before local licensing boards, municipal review panels, and federal agencies when issues overlap with state regulatory schemes.

Representative Matters

• Licensing defense for healthcare professionals, contractors, and other regulated occupations
• Challenging agency rulemaking or interpreting ambiguous regulations
• Contesting permit denials and advocating for permit approvals
• Defending employers in workforce-related administrative enforcement actions
• Handling environmental enforcement actions and negotiated resolutions
• Pursuing judicial review of adverse agency decisions

Why Choose Our Administrative Law Team

Clients choose our firm for practical advocacy, procedural expertise, and local experience with Wisconsin agencies and courts. We combine careful pre-hearing preparation, persuasive written advocacy, and effective negotiation to achieve outcomes that minimize regulatory exposure and protect professional reputations. Our attorneys keep clients informed of case milestones and recommended strategies at every step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a contested case or administrative hearing?

A contested case is an adjudicative proceeding before an agency (similar to a courtroom trial) where evidence and testimony determine rights, duties, or privileges such as licensure or permit status.

Can I appeal an agency decision?

Yes—most final agency decisions can be reviewed in state court under judicial review procedures; an experienced administrative-law attorney can identify the proper grounds and timelines for appeal.

Do you handle license renewals and informal agency contacts?

Yes—we assist with licensing applications, renewals, preemptive compliance steps, and informal communications with regulators to reduce the risk of enforcement actions.

Contact Us

If you have questions about an administrative matter or need representation, please visit our contact page or call our Watertown office at (920) 261-7626. We offer prompt case assessments and will explain your options and next steps.