Shoplifting or retail theft is often seen as a minor offense that may be committed by teenagers or others who steal low-value items from stores. However, this form of theft is still considered a serious crime that can have significant legal consequences. In the state of Wisconsin, shoplifting offenses are typically charged as misdemeanors. However, under certain circumstances, shoplifting can lead to felony charges. A person who has been accused of retail theft will need to understand their rights and their options for defense. Representation from an experienced attorney can be crucial in these situations.

What Constitutes Retail Theft in Wisconsin?

Retail theft occurs when a person intentionally takes possession of or carries away merchandise from a store without paying its full price. While the most commonly recognized form of shoplifting involves pocketing merchandise and leaving a store without paying, there are other activities that could result in retail theft charges. Some examples include:

• Switching price tags on items to purchase a more expensive item at the price of a cheaper item. 

  ...

Arson is a serious crime that involves intentionally setting fire to property. In the state of Wisconsin, arson is a felony offense. The severity of the charges and the potential penalties will depend on factors such as the extent of damage caused, whether there were any injuries or fatalities, and the intent behind the act. Anyone who has been accused of arson, property crimes, violent offenses, or other types of crimes can determine how to protect their rights by working with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

What Is Arson Under Wisconsin Law?

In Wisconsin, arson is defined under Chapter 943 of the state statutes. According to Section 943.02, a person commits arson if they intentionally damage a building through the use of fire or an explosion without the owner’s consent. The law also covers other forms of arson, including using a fire to damage personal property valued at over $100 (Section 943.03) and setting a fire with the intent to commit fraud against an insurance company (Section 943.04).

Felony Arson Charges and Penalties

In Wisconsin, arson involving intentional destruction to a building is generally classified as a Class C felony offense due to its serious nature and the potential harm it can cause. The penalties for a Class C felony conviction includes a jail sentence of up to 40 years and fines of up to $100,000. If someone was injured due to arson, other criminal charges may also apply.

In the state of Wisconsin, assault and battery offenses are taken very seriously. Depending on the circumstances of an alleged offense, an individual may face misdemeanor or felony charges. Felonies carry more severe consequences, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.

If you are facing assault and battery charges in Wisconsin, it is crucial to understand when these offenses can lead to felony charges. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions regarding your case. By seeking legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can determine your best options for defending against a conviction.

Defining Assault and Battery

Before diving into the specifics of felony charges, it is important to understand what the terms "assault" and "battery" refer to. Assault generally involves actions that cause someone to reasonably fear they will experience imminent bodily harm or death. Battery, on the other hand, involves intentional physical contact that causes bodily harm or injury.

By: Attorney Nicole Masnica 

Human trafficking is a serious criminal offense that can result in severe legal consequences in the state of Wisconsin. The state's laws on human trafficking cover a wide range of activities related to transporting or harboring people to perform labor or engage in commercial sex acts. A person found guilty of human trafficking can face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a lifelong criminal record. If you are facing charges of human trafficking or other sensitive crimes in Wisconsin, it is essential to understand the nature of the charges and the potential penalties of a conviction.

What Is Human Trafficking?

According to Wisconsin statute 940.302, human trafficking occurs when a person intentionally recruits, entices, transports, or harbors another individual for the purpose of labor or sexual exploitation. Human trafficking can involve many different activities, including:

By: Attorney Nicole Masnica

Children are considered to be some of the most vulnerable members of society because they are unable to fully protect themselves, and they rely on parents or guardians to meet their needs. For this reason, crimes committed against children are taken very seriously by law enforcement, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. Charges of crimes against children can have a significant impact on a person's reputation, freedom, and future. Anyone who has been accused of these sensitive crimes will need to understand the nature of the charges against them and their options for defense.

Criminal Offenses Involving Children in Wisconsin

Crimes against children may involve any offenses in which a person is accused of causing harm to a minor or engaging in actions that could put a child at risk of harm. These charges may include: