Facing a criminal charge in Wisconsin? One of your first and most critical moments in court is the initial appearance. For many, this hearing is where the judge will decide whether you walk free or remain in custody while your case proceeds. And thanks to a recent 2023 constitutional amendment, judges in violent crime cases […]
Your Legal Right to Defend Yourself and Others in Wisconsin In Wisconsin, the right to self-defense and the defense of others is protected under state law, but it comes with specific legal standards and limitations. Codified in Wis. Stat. § 939.48 and § 939.49, these statutes establish when and how force—including deadly force—may be legally
Understanding Self-Defense, Defense of Others, and Defense of Property in Wisconsin Read More »
What You Need to Know About Warrantless Entry and Obstruction Charges in Wisconsin A recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision—State v. Ryan D. Wilkie, Appeal No. 2022AP730-CR—clarifies the scope of police authority to enter a home without a warrant during a suspected emergency. This case is especially relevant for anyone facing obstruction or disorderly conduct
Wisconsin Court Upholds Warrantless Entry by Police in Domestic Disturbance Case Read More »
A recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision provides important guidance on defendants’ rights to be physically present at competency hearings. This ruling has significant implications for criminal defendants and their attorneys, especially as courts continue to utilize virtual proceedings. The Court’s Decision In a recent case, the Appeals Court tackled a crucial question: Does conducting
Wisconsin Court Addresses Virtual Hearings: When Is Zoom Not Enough? Read More »
Police departments in Wisconsin receive anonymous tips daily, forcing them to quickly assess their validity. Many clients ask us: Can an anonymous tip alone give police enough reason to stop or search someone? The U.S. Supreme Court’s 2014 ruling in Navarette v. California answered this question by stating that police can conduct a traffic stop
Can Wisconsin Police Stop You Based on an Anonymous Tip? Read More »
A recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision sheds important light on when police can legally stop your vehicle and what constitutes reasonable suspicion for a traffic stop. The case, State v. Braun, offers valuable lessons for Wisconsin drivers about their rights and the sometimes subtle reasons police may initiate a traffic stop.
When Can Police Stop Your Vehicle? Wisconsin Court Ruling Provides Important Insights Read More »
Recent developments in the University of Idaho murder case have brought crucial criminal defense issues to the forefront, particularly regarding DNA evidence and investigative techniques. As Wisconsin criminal defense attorneys, we’re closely watching how these issues impact defendants’ rights and legal strategies in our state.
DNA Evidence and Criminal Defense: What Wisconsin Defendants Need to Know Read More »
In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that individuals subject to domestic violence restraining orders can be temporarily prohibited from possessing firearms. This June 2024 ruling in United States v. Rahimi has significant implications for Wisconsin residents, particularly those facing restraining orders or weapons charges.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently issued a landmark decision in Garland v. Cargill that impacts gun owners across Wisconsin and the nation. As Madison criminal defense attorneys, we’re breaking down what this ruling means for you and your rights under both federal and state law.
Supreme Court’s Bump Stock Ruling: What Wisconsin Gun Owners Need to Know Read More »
In a significant 4-3 decision, the Wisconsin Supreme Court, in 2023, ruled that the smell of marijuana alone can provide probable cause for police to conduct a warrantless search. As criminal defense attorneys, we’re concerned about the implications this ruling has for Wisconsin residents’ Fourth Amendment rights. Understanding State v. Moore The case, State v.