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WISCONSIN BLUE BOOK
  On June 22, 1956, the Supreme Court ordered organization of
the bar into a formal organization known as the State Bar of Wis-
consin, effective January 1, 1957. This organization acquired the
facilities, records, property, and staff organization of the former
Wisconsin Bar Association. Subject to rules prescribed by the
Supreme Court, the State Bar is governed by a Board of Governors
consisting of the officers and 29 members selected by mail ballot
by the members of the State Bar from 9 districts of the state. The
9 districts correspond to the 10 congressional district boundaries
except that the 4th and 5th congressional districts (Milwaukee
County) have been combined. The Board of Governors selects the
executive director.
  The State Bar consists of all attorneys entitled to practice before
the state courts. Attorneys are admitted to the bar by the Supreme
Court or by a single justice of the Supreme Court. As of December
31, 1961 there were 7,051 members of the State Bar. Once
admitted, members of the bar are subject to the rules of ethical
conduct prescribed by the Supreme Court, whether they practice
before a court, an administrative body or in consultation with clients
not involving court appearances.
  Function of the Bar
  1. Processes and investigates grievances and presents recom-
     mendations for disciplinary action to the Board of State Bar
     Commissioners.
  2. Investigates complaints of practice of law by those not entitled
     to practice.
  3. Through its committees the bar acts to raise professional
     standards, to improve the administration of justice, provide
     legal assistance for those unable to pay for it, and furnish
     continuing legal education to lawyers.
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