Defense for Disorderly Conduct & Domestic Violence
Being charged with domestic violence or disorderly conduct in Wisconsin can be stressful, involving emotional turmoil, and potential long-term consequences.
Questions About Your Charges?
Understanding the intricacies of domestic violence charges or disorderly conduct citations is the first step toward protecting your rights. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions:
Charge dismissal often depends on the specifics of the case, any mitigating circumstances, and the effectiveness of your legal defense. A more likely scenario is to amend a disorderly conduct charge into a ticket. Our domestic and family violence attorneys can explore these possibilities with you.
Yes, disorderly conduct is always a misdemeanor in Wisconsin, with one exception for repeat offenders as stated in Wisconsin Stat 939.62.
As a criminal offense, the maximum penalties for disorderly conduct is 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
In many cases, charges cannot be dropped solely by the victim. Although they can express their desire not to proceed after charges have been filed, the decision ultimately rests with the prosecutor. A domestic defense attorney can provide detailed guidance for you through this process.
Domestic battery penalties may include fines, imprisonment, and mandatory participation in counseling or educational programs. Battery is a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of nine months incarceration, $10,000, or both. Substantial battery is a felony with a maximum penalty of 3.5 years in prison, $10,000, or both.
Choose Conrardy to Defend Your Case
A dedicated, supportive domestic defense attorney is invaluable in domestic violence and disorderly conduct cases. As domestic violence and family violence attorneys, the legal professionals at Conrardy Law S.C. have the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the complexities of the Wisconsin legal system, protect your rights and work toward reducing or dismissing the charges when possible.
Wisconsin Violence Laws
Disorderly conduct and domestic violence laws encompass a variety of behaviors and carry a wide range of penalties. Here’s what you need to know as you face your charges.
Potential Violations
Wisconsin law is quite comprehensive when it comes to disorderly conduct and domestic violence, aiming to cover a wide array of behaviors that disrupt public order or harm personal relationships.
Disorderly conduct typically includes acts such as public disturbances, loud or abusive language, and disruptive behavior in public spaces. When charged with disorderly conduct in Wisconsin, even a seemingly minor incident can escalate into a serious legal matter, especially if it's misunderstood or misrepresented.
Domestic violence is an enhancer added onto any crime committed against someone with a specific relation to the defendant. It is not a separate charge in and of itself. It can include physical harm, as well as emotional abuse, threats, and harassment. Domestic violence encompasses any behavior that seeks to dominate or control a partner or family member.
Possible Penalties
The range of penalties for these infractions varies greatly depending on the specifics of the case.
A first-time disorderly conduct charge in Wisconsin might seem like a minor infraction but can still result in significant consequences. Disorderly conduct is typically classified as a misdemeanor, and penalties may include fines, community service, or even jail time. However, there is the possibility of a DPA (deferment of prosecution agreement) for Wisconsin first-time disorderly conduct charges. A DPA generally requires the defendant to take classes, complete community service, and/or participate in other activities. Once those activities are completed in a certain period of time, the case may be dismissed or turned into a ticket.
For domestic violence charges in Wisconsin, the stakes can be even higher. Domestic violence convictions can result in more severe penalties, including mandatory counseling, restraining orders, longer jail sentences, and/or prison. The classification of a charge significantly impacts the outcome; for instance, domestic battery as a misdemeanor carries different consequences than if it were charged as a more severe offense.
Request Your Free Consultation
Get started building your defense against domestic violence or disorderly conduct in Wisconsin with the Conrardy team at your side.