Criminal Defense in Wisconsin
Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges in Wisconsin? The uncertainty and stress that come with an arrest can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone.
Our network includes attorneys throughout Wisconsin who know how to negotiate with prosecutors, fight for reduced penalties, and present a strong defense at trial.
Don’t let the legal process intimidate you. Contact us today to be matched with a Wisconsin criminal defense lawyer who will advocate for your best interests.
Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Wisconsin
Hiring a criminal defense attorney in Wisconsin means you’ll have a skilled advocate by your side—someone who knows how to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for a better outcome. A qualified lawyer can make a powerful difference from the moment charges are filed through every court appearance that follows.
What is the Difference Between Parole and Probation?
If you’re facing criminal charges in Wisconsin, you may qualify for either parole or probation depending on your case. While both serve as alternatives to jail or prison time, they come with very different requirements and legal implications.
Probation
In Wisconsin, probation serves as a structured alternative to incarceration, allowing individuals to remain in the community under specific conditions set by the court. This alternative is often granted to those who demonstrate a commitment to rehabilitation and compliance with the law.
A notable aspect of Wisconsin’s probation system is the allowance for warrantless searches. Under the precedent set by Griffin v. Wisconsin, probation officers can conduct searches of a probationer’s residence without a warrant.
Probation conditions in Wisconsin are comprehensive and tailored to promote rehabilitation. They may include mandatory participation in treatment programs, adherence to curfews, regular drug and alcohol testing, and restrictions on associating with certain individuals or visiting specific places.
Financial obligations are also a component of probation. Probationers may be required to pay restitution to victims, court costs, fines, and other related fees.
The duration of probation in Wisconsin varies based on the severity of the offense and the individual’s criminal history. For misdemeanors, probation terms typically range from six months to two years. For felonies, probation terms are generally set between one year and either the maximum sentence.
Probation Revoked
Failing to follow the exact terms of your probation in Wisconsin can have serious consequences. If you disregard court-ordered conditions, the judge has the authority to revoke your probation entirely—potentially sending you to jail to serve the remainder of your sentence. Depending on the severity of the violation, you could also face new charges or an extended term of supervision.
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections outlines a variety of probation requirements. While the full list depends on your charges and the sentencing judge, common conditions often include:
- Attending scheduled check-ins with a probation officer
- Paying court fees, restitution, and monthly supervision costs
- Reporting any vehicle purchases or transfers of ownership
- Refraining from firearm possession or handling dangerous weapons
- Getting advance approval before traveling outside Wisconsin
- Notifying your probation officer before changing your residence
Your probation officer plays a central role in monitoring compliance. They’ll document your behavior, confirm you’re meeting program expectations, and submit regular reports to the court. If any issues arise, they can initiate a formal violation hearing. That’s when you’ll need experienced legal counsel on your side.
Parole
Parole in Wisconsin comes with a different set of rules than probation, even though both involve conditional release into the community. Instead of being monitored by a probation officer, you are supervised by a parole officer who works closely with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
Parole is granted after you’ve served part of your prison sentence and are considered eligible for supervised reintegration. While you’re no longer behind bars, you’re not entirely free either. You must follow specific terms set by the parole board and your supervising officer.
If your parole officer suspects a violation, they can issue an immediate warrant for your arrest. From there, a revocation hearing will be scheduled. Unlike a criminal trial, the burden of proof is lower: the state only has to show that you violated a condition by a preponderance of the evidence—not beyond a reasonable doubt.
Work With an Experienced Local Wisconsin Criminal Defense Lawyer
A Wisconsin criminal defense attorney understands how to navigate the state’s legal system and can work with prosecutors to secure the most favorable outcome for your case. Whether you’re dealing with misdemeanor charges or a serious felony, your attorney can negotiate for a lower bond, push for reduced charges, or advocate for dismissal if the evidence doesn’t hold up.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in any state, contact our team to learn how we can connect you with a reputable criminal defense attorney near you. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Wisconsin state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
If you would like to know more about other areas of law in Wisconsin then we’ve also got you covered!
