January 22, 2026

Understanding Expunging Criminal Records in Wisconsin

A criminal conviction can follow you for years, affecting your job prospects, housing options, and personal relationships. If you’re wondering whether you can clear your record, understanding expunging criminal records in Wisconsin is an important first step. Wisconsin law does allow expungement in certain limited circumstances, and knowing whether you qualify can help you move…

OWI

December 20, 2025

Penalties for a First Offense OWI in Wisconsin

A first offense Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charge in Wisconsin carries serious consequences. These penalties extend far beyond the courtroom. Hart Powell, S.C. recognizes that Wisconsin law treats a first offense as a civil traffic violation rather than a criminal misdemeanor. However, the penalties impact your employment, insurance rates, and driving privileges for years. Understanding…

Drug Crimes

August 1, 2025

The Impact of Prior Drug Convictions on Sentencing in Wisconsin

Drug crimes in Wisconsin carry harsh penalties. However, prior convictions can significantly affect sentencing for repeat drug offenses, often leading to harsher penalties and fewer opportunities for alternatives like rehabilitation or diversion programs. At Hart Powell, S.C., a prior conviction can increase your sentence for repeat drug offenses. These more severe penalties are why we…

Drug Crimes

July 1, 2025

Legal Defenses Against Drug Conspiracy Charges in Wisconsin

Criminal law in Wisconsin allows prosecutors to charge individuals with conspiring to commit a drug offense, even if the person did not commit the offense. Thus, the law imposes criminal conviction liability for planning and taking steps to carry out a drug crime. However, people charged with participating in a drug conspiracy defense may have…

OWI

June 1, 2025

What Happens When You Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Wisconsin

It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle in Wisconsin with a Blood/Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or greater. If a law enforcement police officer has reason to believe you are Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), they can request samples of your breath, blood, or urine. If you refuse to take a breathalyzer test, you…

OWI

May 6, 2025

Penalties for Multiple OWI Offenses in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is called “operating while intoxicated” (OWI). If law enforcement charges you with an OWI, you need a skilled and knowledgeable OWI lawyer to help protect your rights and avoid an OWI charge. Navigate the Wisconsin criminal justice system. Why? The offense cannot be…

Criminal Defense

April 1, 2025

How to Appeal a Criminal Conviction in Wisconsin

When your criminal trial results in a conviction and sentence, you may wish to challenge your conviction if you believe that errors during the trial court proceedings deprived you of a fair trial or influenced the trial’s outcome. However, you must understand the process of appealing a criminal conviction so you can best present a…

Criminal Defense

March 1, 2025

Understanding Domestic Violence Laws and Penalties in Wisconsin

A domestic violence allegation will have far-reaching consequences for your livelihood, relationships, and reputation, even if you haven’t been convicted. Wisconsin takes these offenses seriously, so you should know the relevant state laws and penalties. We’ll cover both domestic violence charges and laws in this post and explain some common defense strategies used in Milwaukee…

Drug Crimes

February 1, 2025

Understanding Prescription Drug Possession Laws in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Prescription drugs help treat medical conditions, but having them without also having a prescription for them can lead to legal trouble. What are the prescription drug possession laws in Wisconsin? In Milwaukee, strict laws mean severe penalties for unauthorized possession. Understanding the laws and defenses is key to protecting your future if you or someone…

Criminal Defense

December 31, 2024

Robbery vs. Burglary: What’s the Difference?

If you are facing criminal charges in Wisconsin for taking someone else’s property, you must know the difference between robbery and burglary. Though often used interchangeably, these terms have distinct legal definitions. Whether you are at risk of a court entering a felony or petty theft charge against you, you need a lawyer on your side. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help…