Wisconsin Crimes: Laws & Penalties

Understanding Wisconsin Crimes: Laws, Penalties & What to Do If Charged

Hey there, let’s talk about a serious topic that affects many people in Wisconsin – criminal charges. Whether it’s you or someone you know facing charges, it’s important to understand how crimes are classified in Wisconsin and the potential penalties. Don‘t worry though, we’ll break it all down in a way that makes sense.

Felonies vs Misdemeanors in Wisconsin

First off, in Wisconsin, crimes are divided into two main categories – felonies and misdemeanors. Here‘s the key difference:

• Felonies are the most serious crimes punishable by imprisonment of more than 1 year in state prison.
• Misdemeanors are less serious offenses punishable by up to 1 year in county jail.

Pretty straightforward, right? But here’s where it gets a bit more complex. Within each category, crimes are further classified by severity.

Wisconsin Felony Classifications

Felonies in Wisconsin are categorized into 9 classes, from most serious to least serious:

Some examples of felony crimes by class:

• Class A Felony: First-degree intentional homicide
• Class C Felony: Armed robbery, Second-degree sexual assault
• Class F Felony: Burglary
• Class H Felony: Strangulation and suffocation, Stalking resulting in bodily harm

Wisconsin Misdemeanor Classifications

Misdemeanors in Wisconsin have 3 classes:

Some misdemeanor examples:

• Class A Misdemeanor: Battery, 4th degree sexual assault
• Class B Misdemeanor: Disorderly conduct, Unlawful use of a telephone

Sentencing & Penalties for Wisconsin Crimes

Alright, so now you know how Wisconsin categorizes felonies and misdemeanors. But what does that mean in terms of actual sentences? Let’s dive in.

Sentencing for Felonies

In Wisconsin, felony sentences are bifurcated, meaning they are split into two parts:

1. Initial term of confinement in prison
2. Extended supervision in the community

The judge determines the total length of the bifurcated sentence and what portion will be served in prison vs extended supervision. For example, let’s say someone is convicted of a Class F felony like burglary. The judge could impose a bifurcated sentence of 8 years, with 4 years initial confinement in prison and 4 years extended supervision.Other potential felony penalties include:

• Fines up to the maximum amount per class
• Victim restitution
• DNA surcharge
• Mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes

Sentencing for Misdemeanors

Most misdemeanor sentences are served in the county jail. Judges can impose sentences up to the maximum for each class. However, first-time misdemeanor offenders may be eligible for alternatives like:

• Deferred prosecution agreements
• Diversion programs
• Probation

These alternatives focus on rehabilitation over punishment. Successfully completing the terms often results in reduced or dismissed charges. Other common misdemeanor penalties:

• Fines
• Restitution
• Court costs
• Substance abuse assessment and treatment for drug/alcohol related offenses

Collateral Consequences of a Wisconsin Criminal Conviction

While incarceration and fines are the direct consequences of a conviction, there are other ways a criminal record can impact your life, like:

• Employment background checks
• Professional licensing
• Public benefits eligibility
• Housing opportunities
• Gun rights
• Child custody and placement
• Immigration status

A felony conviction is especially serious, as it strips the right to vote, serve on a jury, and possess a firearm. Felons also face significant barriers to employment and housing.

Defenses to Wisconsin Criminal Charges

Facing criminal charges is scary, but remember, you have constitutional rights and protections in the legal system. Here are some common defenses that may apply to a criminal case:

• Lack of probable cause: Police need probable cause to make an arrest or conduct a search. If they violate this right, some evidence may get suppressed.
• Violation of Miranda rights: Police are required to read you your Miranda rights before a custodial interrogation. If they don’t, statements you make may be inadmissible.
• Illegal search and seizure: Evidence obtained from an unlawful search not covered by a warrant exception can’t be used against you.
• Mistaken identity/alibi: You may have been wrongly identified as the perpetrator or have an alibi showing you were somewhere else.
• Affirmative defenses: Some acts are legally justified or excused, like self-defense, defense of others, or coercion.
• Lack of intent: Most crimes require intent. If you didn’t have the required mental state, that can be a defense.
• Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they otherwise wouldn’t commit.
• Plea negotiations: Your attorney may be able to negotiate a favorable plea deal to reduce charges or penalties.

Not all defenses apply to every case. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is the best way to determine your options.

Statute of Limitations for Wisconsin Crimes

A statute of limitations (SOL) is the time limit for a prosecutor to file criminal charges. In Wisconsin, the SOL depends on the offense:

• Felonies:
  • Class A felonies like 1st degree homicide have no time limit
  • Most other felonies have a 6 year SOL
• Misdemeanors:
  • Most misdemeanors have a 3 year SOL
  • Some have shorter time limits, like 2 years for disorderly conduct

There are some exceptions that can extend the SOL, like DNA evidence or crimes involving a child victim.

What to Do If You Are Charged With a Crime in Wisconsin

If you’re facing criminal charges, the most important thing is to exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense lawyer right away. Trying to explain your side or consenting to searches can hurt your case. Let your lawyer communicate on your behalf. Start researching attorneys in your area that handle cases like yours. Check out their online reviews, case results, and attorney disciplinary records. Many lawyers offer free consultations, so meet with a few to find the best fit.Be honest with your attorney about the facts of your case. Attorney-client privilege keeps these discussions confidential. Your lawyer needs to know the full story to mount the strongest defense. While every case is different, your lawyer may:

• Conduct an independent investigation
• File motions to suppress evidence
• Negotiate with the prosecutor
• Prepare the case for trial
• Advise you on the pros and cons of a plea deal
• Advocate for the best possible outcome