Being charged with a felony in Wisconsin can be life-changing. Felony convictions carry serious consequences, including prison time, fines, and long-term impacts on employment and civil rights. Understanding the different felony classes in Wisconsin can help you know what to expect, what penalties may apply, and how a criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights.
At Schiro Criminal Defense, our experienced criminal defense attorneys guide clients through these complex cases and fight for the best possible outcome. Wisconsin classifies felonies from Class A to Class I, with Class A being the most serious. Each class carries different penalties and examples of offenses. Knowing which class applies to your case is crucial for understanding the potential consequences and planning your defense.
What Is a Felony?
A felony is a criminal offense that is more serious than a misdemeanor and is punishable by prison time of more than one year. Felony convictions can also result in significant fines and other consequences, including probation, mandatory registration for certain offenses, and long-term effects on civil rights. Common felony-related consequences include restrictions on voting, employment, and professional licensing.
Wisconsin Felony Classes: From Class A to I
Wisconsin classifies felonies into nine categories based on the severity of the offense. The following table summarizes each class, possible prison terms, fines, and examples.
| Felony Class | Maximum Prison Time | Maximum Fine | Common Examples |
| Class A | Life imprisonment | $100,000 | Murder, treason |
| Class B | 60 years | $100,000 | First-degree sexual assault, armed robbery |
| Class C | 40 years | $100,000 | Manslaughter, second-degree sexual assault |
| Class D | 25 years | $100,000 | Burglary, second-degree sexual assault of a child |
| Class E | 15 years | $50,000 | Possession with intent to deliver certain drugs, reckless homicide |
| Class F | 12 years | $25,000 | Identity theft, some fraud offenses |
| Class G | 10 years | $25,000 | Certain theft or property crimes, drug possession |
| Class H | 6 years | $10,000 | Misdemeanor-level assaults elevated due to circumstances |
| Class I | 3.5 years | $10,000 | Less severe thefts or low-level felonies |
From white collar crimes to those related to drugs and violent offenses, actual sentencing can vary based on factors such as prior criminal history, aggravating circumstances, or plea agreements.
What to Do If You Are Charged with a Felony
Being charged with a felony in Wisconsin can be overwhelming. The steps you take immediately can influence your case. Schiro Criminal Defense recommends the following actions:
- Remain calm and do not make statements to law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings and comply with bail conditions.
- Gather documents, records, and evidence related to the case.
- Avoid discussing your case on social media or with friends and family, as these statements can be used against you.
Early legal guidance can make a significant difference in protecting your rights, negotiating favorable outcomes, and potentially reducing the severity of penalties.
How a Wisconsin Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
Attorneys at Schiro Criminal Defense provide comprehensive support for clients facing felony charges. We can:
- Review the facts of the case and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
- Investigate the incident and interview witnesses
- Coordinate with experts to challenge forensic or accident evidence
- Negotiate plea agreements to minimize penalties when appropriate
- Represent clients at trial to fight for acquittal or reduced charges
- Advise clients on post-conviction options, including appeals or expungements when eligible
Working with a skilled attorney increases the likelihood of achieving the best possible outcome while protecting your rights throughout the legal process.
Long-Term Consequences of Felony Convictions
Felony convictions in Wisconsin do not only affect prison or fines. They can have lasting effects on your life, including:
- Difficulty obtaining employment or professional licenses
- Loss of the right to vote for certain offenses
- Challenges in securing housing or loans
- Mandatory registration for sex offenses or other crimes
- Challenges traveling internationally
Understanding these long-term implications reinforces the importance of hiring an attorney to carefully manage your case.
Why Contact Schiro Criminal Defense
If you or a loved one is charged with a felony in Wisconsin, contacting Schiro Criminal Defense as soon as possible is crucial. Our attorneys provide knowledgeable, personalized representation and guide clients through every step of the legal process. We focus on protecting your rights, reviewing all evidence, and pursuing the most favorable outcome in your case.
Contact us at (414) 277-9696 to schedule your free, confidential consultation to discuss your options with an experienced criminal defense team. Early intervention and skilled representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
