Wisconsin Concealed Weapon Charges

Wisconsin, Illinois and the District of Columbia are “no-issue” jurisdictions. This means they do not issue concealed weapon permits to anyone. But Wisconsin's status may change by the end of 2011. After the mid-term elections in November 2010, the legislature in Wisconsin shifted to a Republican majority. The Republican Scott Walker replaced the previous Democratic governor. It is expected that the state Congress will try to pass legislation legalizing residents to carry a concealed weapon with a permit.

Wisconsin's Weapon Laws

Though Wisconsin has some of the most restrictive gun laws, it does allow citizens to openly carry a firearm. However, handguns are strictly prohibited in the following locations:

• Any public building
• Any establishment that primarily serves alcoholic beverages
• Any wildlife refuge area (unless the firearm is unloaded and in a carrying case)
• Any gun-free school zone
• Any state park or state fish hatchery (unless the firearm is unloaded and in a carrying case)

All firearms inside a motor vehicle must be unloaded and enclosed in a carrying device.

Weapon Violations in Wisconsin

Anyone who possesses a firearm during the commission of a crime will be given a much longer sentence. Weapon offenses and penalties are outlined in the table below.

Wisconsin's Plea Options

At your initial court appearance, the conditions of release and bail considerations are discussed. The presiding judge will read the charges against you and ask you to enter a plea. Your options include:

• Plead Guilty to the Offense—If you and prosecutor have worked out a plea bargain, you may be required to plead guilty to the lesser crime in open court. After this, the judge can immediately pronounce the sentence.
• Plead Not Guilty—Most criminal defendants enter their first plea as not guilty because it gives them time to weigh their options and obtain legal counsel.
• Plead No Contest—If you do not want to admit guilt for the crime, you can choose this option. You can still be found guilty in a criminal case but cannot be held accountable for your actions later in a civil suit.

Advice From a Wisconsin Criminal Defense Attorney

Wisconsin has some comparatively harsh gun control laws with serious penalties. If you are facing prison time, you probably need the skills of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Don’t take chances with your future by trying to work out a plea deal on your own. Contact an attorney immediately if you have been arrested and charged with a crime.