Phone 715-525-9839
Phone 715-525-9839
Facing your first court appearance in Wisconsin can be a little nerve-wracking. Even if your case is minor, the courthouse environment, formal procedures, and legal jargon make it feel intimidating. However, when you know what to expect at your initial court appearance in Wisconsin, that can take a lot of the stress out of the…
Refusing a breathalyzer test in Wisconsin is not a loophole or a way to sidestep an OWI charge. Under the state’s implied consent law, saying no to the officer can trigger penalties. Many times, they can be just as serious as a drunk driving conviction. If you’re unsure what actually happens when you decline a…
When it comes to criminal sentencing in Wisconsin, your past does not stay hidden. Prior convictions can follow you into the courtroom and impact the outcome of a current case. So, how do prior convictions affect sentencing in Wisconsin criminal cases? Here is what you need to know about how Wisconsin law treats prior convictions…
Most people believe that they only have to deal with one courtroom and case if they are charged with a crime. Unfortunately, that is not true. Can you be charged with both state and federal crimes in Wisconsin? Sometimes, a crime can land you in two different courts as you face two different charges. Here…
If you have been charged with Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) in Wisconsin, you might expect to pay fines and maybe have your license suspended. However, there is something that you might not think about: the ignition interlock device (IID). This is a breath-testing unit wired into your vehicle. You will not be able to start…
Getting pulled over is enough to make anyone nervous. Your heart rate probably jumps the second those flashing lights hit your rearview mirror. Sometimes, the officer asks to search your car. Do you have to say yes? While the Constitution protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures, some exceptions exist. So, when can police search…
If you’ve been arrested for a first-offense OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) in Wisconsin, not knowing what happens next can lead to many questions. Will you be able to drive? Could you lose your job? What other impacts can you expect? These are all valid questions, especially for those unfamiliar with the OWI process. Let’s look…
Anyone who has watched a crime drama can probably recite the Miranda warning by heart. But what you might not know is that in real life, especially here in Wisconsin, police do not have to read you your rights the moment you are handcuffed. In fact, they might never say those famous lines at all….
If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in Wisconsin, you will want to know how the law classifies offenses. Unfortunately, charges can be elevated under certain circumstances. A charge that may start as a misdemeanor can be bumped to a felony. That can dramatically increase the possible penalties, the long-term consequences,…
If you’ve ever been pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, you may have heard the term “implied consent.” This can play a big role in Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) cases. But what are implied consent laws, and how do they apply in Wisconsin? This means that by choosing to drive on the state’s roads,…
Facing felony charges in Wisconsin can change the course of your life. When the court documents start listing classifications like “Class A,” “Class B,” or “Class C,” what does that mean for your future? These are more than labels. What are Class A, B, and C felonies in Wisconsin? They represent a scale of severity…
Getting pulled over or stopped by the police can be a stressful experience, even if you have not done anything wrong. At the moment, you might feel unsure about what you’re supposed to do. That’s why it’s so important to know your rights ahead of time. So, what are your rights during a police stop…
If you’ve recently been charged with Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) in Wisconsin, you will want to build a strong defense. Sometimes, the results of a field sobriety test may not have been accurate, or the officer acted in a way that violated your rights. That could lead to a dismissal or reduction of these charges. …
If you’ve been pulled over for an Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charge in Wisconsin, you want to know what happens next. Will you lose your license or go to jail? These are all important questions. Wisconsin takes these offenses seriously, and a first-time conviction can have lasting repercussions. When you know more about navigating OWI…
When someone is facing criminal charges, these might be misdemeanor or felony offenses. What are the differences? The consequences of a misdemeanor or felony conviction can be substantial. They can affect everything from your job prospects to your freedom. Here’s a breakdown of the difference between misdemeanors and felonies in Wisconsin and what you need…
The Right to Remain Silent. Your right to remain silent is a fundamental protection enshrined in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, yet its implications are often misunderstood. This right is crucial for anyone facing legal troubles, but knowing how to effectively exercise it can make a significant difference in the outcome of a…
At Melms Law, we understand that legal cases can often feel like a real-life game of Clue. Just like in the classic board game where players must piece together clues to figure out who committed the crime, where it happened, and with what weapon, navigating the legal system requires careful investigation, strategic thinking, and a…
When you’re stopped by the police, it’s crucial to understand your rights, especially when it comes to the duration of your detention. The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures, and this protection extends to how long you can be detained during an investigative stop. If a detention lasts longer than necessary, any…
Bail is a critical aspect of the criminal justice system, ensuring that individuals accused of crimes can secure their release from custody while awaiting trial. However, the issue of excessive cash bail is a significant concern, especially when it’s used in a way that violates constitutional protections. In Wisconsin, the laws surrounding cash bail are…
At Melms Law, we believe that understanding your rights is crucial, especially when interacting with law enforcement. One common scenario where your rights might be challenged is during a Terry stop. Here’s what you need to know about Terry stops, when they are permissible, and what you should do if you believe your rights have…
When facing an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charge in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to understand how the law applies to searches conducted by law enforcement during your arrest. In Wisconsin, searches incident to arrest are governed by a combination of statutory provisions and case law, which dictate when and how officers can search you or your…
In the fight to preserve our fundamental rights, one principle stands as a cornerstone of our democracy: the protection of free speech, even when it is deeply uncomfortable or offensive. Voltaire famously said, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” This sentiment encapsulates the…
On July 6, 2023, Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman from Springfield, Illinois, experienced what can only be described as a horrifying and entirely unjustifiable act of police violence. Massey had called 911, seeking help for what she believed to be a prowler at her home. Instead of receiving the assistance she needed, she faced…
As the galaxy celebrates Star Wars Day on May the Fourth, we at Melms Law are reminded that the fight for justice often feels like a battle between the forces of good and evil. Whether you’re up against a powerful opponent or facing overwhelming odds, it’s crucial to have a skilled advocate by your side—someone…
At Melms Law, we believe that understanding your rights is crucial, especially when interacting with law enforcement. One common scenario where your rights might be challenged is during a Terry stop. Here’s what you need to know about Terry stops, when they are permissible, and what you should do if you believe your rights have…
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is a cornerstone of American democracy, safeguarding the right to free speech and expression. However, this right is not without limits. In Wisconsin, as in other states, certain types of speech are protected under the First Amendment, but this protection has its boundaries. Here’s what you need…
In Wisconsin, the right to a speedy trial is a fundamental protection guaranteed by both the U.S. and Wisconsin Constitutions and is further reinforced by state statutes. However, these rights differ in how they are applied and the remedies they offer when violated. Constitutional Right to a Speedy Trial The constitutional right to a speedy…
As Memorial Day approaches, we at Melms Law take a moment to reflect on the significance of this solemn occasion. Memorial Day is not just a long weekend or the unofficial start of summer; it is a day dedicated to remembering and honoring the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service…
As we celebrate July 4th, it’s essential to remember what this day truly represents. The day Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, and Randy Quaid saved the world from alien invaders. All kidding aside, Independence Day marks the birth of our nation and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, a bold proclamation of liberty…
When law enforcement officers conduct a search under a warrant, any evidence they seize can significantly impact the outcome of a criminal case. However, not all search warrants and the subsequent seizures are lawful. If you’ve been arrested and evidence was obtained through a search warrant, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the importance…
