Breaking out into a brawl in a bar is more than getting rowdy over a sporting game or an insult thrown. When you start throwing punches, music isn’t going to be playing from a vintage jukebox; you're going to hear sirens.
The Legal Definition of Assault in Wisconsin
Anything at a bar can quickly turn into a bar fight as egos, pride, and alcohol collide. However, bar fights aren’t settled at the bar; they are settled with personal and legal consequences after someone decides to press charges.
In Wisconsin, assault is defined as threatening to harm someone, even if there is no physical contact. So you could be facing assault charges for a bar brawl where your buddies may have held you back and didn’t even make contact with the person you were having an altercation with. When it comes to physical contact, you can be facing aggravated assault and harsh penalties with battery, all of which are affected by the circumstances of the fight that broke out.
Common Scenarios Leading to Bar Fight Charges
When the game goes into overtime, and a tourist shouts drunken insults or throws a cheese head on the floor, you can bet that someone will have something to say about it in that bar. Unfortunately, when it comes to bars, people are usually too drunk to stop themselves from escalating things unnecessarily.
Common bar fights are usually over:
- Insults or comments
- Games like bowling or pool
- Aggressive behavior towards women
- Sporting games on TV and fans arguing
- Overcrowded bars with a lack of space
- Alcohol and security
While assault is a broad term that can make you unsure about the legal ramifications that it can have on your life, at Schiro Criminal Defense, we understand the severity of these allegations. We can help walk you through your legal options. Our skilled Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys will be committed to providing you with aggressive and effective legal representation throughout the entire legal process.
Criminal Penalties
When it comes to a bar fight, it's not about what the other guy looks like, it’s about the intent to harm another person. That’s what will be considered in court. An assault or battery charge can have severe criminal penalties that can affect the rest of your life.
The consequences of a bar fight can be:
- Jail time
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Loss of employment
- Housing difficulty
- Loss of gun rights
While there are different levels of assault and battery charges, it comes down to being able to prove that you intended to hurt the other person and were the primary aggressor. If you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney, you will have a better chance of getting the charges dismissed and protecting your rights.
Civil Liability
Adding to the financial burden of criminal penalties and the associated fines, you can also face civil liabilities from the injured party. In the aftermath of a bar brawl, a civil claim can be filed to receive compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, pain, and suffering, and any legal fees. The unique challenges that a criminal case faces don’t impact a civil liability case, and there is a lower standard for proof, even if charges are never pressed.
Loss of Reputation and Employment Opportunities
If you face the consequences of a bar fight, it's not just about the legal and financial consequences you face but there are unseen and far-reaching consequences that can affect every facet of your life such as damage to your relationships and public reputation, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
After losing your reputation in your community, you could face consequences every time you need to undergo a background check. These allegations or charges can show up for the rest of your life. Don’t let the drink take you, and limit your alcohol intake when you’re out enjoying the bar with your friends.
Defending Yourself Against Bar Fight Charges
The most important part of your defense is to work with a professional criminal defense attorney. Suppose you’ve been arrested or charged with assault in Wisconsin. Contact Schiro Criminal Defense to take immediate action to protect your rights. It’s crucial that you do not incriminate yourself or harm the case in any way. Anything you say will be used against you. While self-defense is an appropriate defense strategy, it must be proved beyond reasonable doubt. That can only happen if you have an experienced criminal defense attorney who can build a strong case for you and defend your rights in court.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation
You can’t blame it on the alcohol when it comes time to face these charges in court. You can only face these charges prepared with an experienced attorney by your side. Ensuring that you receive fair treatment by the court will have the most impact on your future, and our legal team will work tirelessly to bring you the best outcome possible. Reach out to Schiro Defense for a free consultation. Let us be your guide. Call our office at (414) 277-9696 or visit us online to get started today!
