What Factors Impact the Severity of a Wisconsin Criminal Sentence?

 Posted on May 03, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Getting arrested and charged for a criminal offense can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. There is a lot of uncertainty involved. If you are arrested for the first time, you will not know what to expect. The same can even be true if you are arrested for the fourth time because a lot can depend on the specifics of the crime, the arresting officers, and countless other subjective factors. This article will explain some factors that can potentially increase the severity of the charges you face or the sentence you are given. Of course, if you are charged with a crime, the most important thing you can do is consult with a knowledgeable Racine County, IL criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the process.

What Might Increase the Severity of My Charges?

When you are arrested, you might be feeling scared, worried, uncertain, or threatened. These feelings can make you act out in a way that you otherwise would not. While it might seem reasonable to scream and shout and do whatever you can to avoid being taken into custody, such reactions are likely to hurt you in the end.

If you are found guilty or plead guilty of the crime you are charged with, the next step is sentencing. Most charges have a maximum sentence, meaning there is a range of severity in terms of how many years you might serve, how large a fine you might need to pay, etc. Before deciding on your sentence, the judge will review the entire case and consider whether you deserve a lighter or harsher sentence within the range assigned for the charge.

Aggravating factors that could motivate the judge to issue a harsher sentence include:

• The location of the alleged offense - if it happened in a school, church, hospital, government building, or public space
• The victim: Their age, occupation, medical or disability status
• The degree of harm to the victim
• Whether a weapon was used
• The danger you might pose to the general public
• Whether you concealed your identity at the time of the crime
• If the crime was associated with gang activity or another kind of organized crime
• What your role in the crime was, if it was committed by more than one person
• Whether you evaded arrest

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Wisconsin Defense Lawyer

If you are convicted of a crime, an experienced Milwaukee County, WI criminal defense attorney can review your case and help build a defense. At Bucher Law Group, LLC, we are passionate about defending our clients’ legal rights, and we will fight to protect them. Call us at 262-303-4916 to schedule a free consultation.