Officials aggressively pursue criminal cases, and statistics reveal their relentless efforts. According to arrest data compiled by the Wisconsin Department of Justice (WI DOJ), law enforcement officers arrest more than 201,000 people every year statewide. Almost 3,300 people face charges in Jefferson County, including arrests by the Watertown Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
If you face criminal charges in Wisconsin, it’s essential to retain skilled legal representation as early in the process as possible. Our team at Nicholson Goetz & Otis, S.C., is prepared to protect your rights at all stages. Please contact us to set up a free, 30-minute consultation with a Watertown, Jefferson County criminal defense lawyer.
Our criminal defense lawyers who serve Watertown have years of combined experience handling a wide array of criminal cases. We offer dedicated, personalized legal support to protect your rights and strategize for the best possible outcome. We’re ready to defend:
Wisconsin’s Deferred Adjudication Program (DAP) enables eligible individuals to avoid a conviction on their record. Under this program, you can work for a dismissal of the charges by successfully completing the requirements set by the court during a probationary period. As a result, you will not carry the long-term consequences of a criminal history.
Guidance from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer helps you leverage a plea bargain or participation in DAP. This strategic approach can help you minimize the impact of criminal charges on your life and future.
Throughout the proceedings, we will file necessary motions, represent you in court appearances, and work to negotiate favorable plea deals when appropriate. Our team knows the stress caused by criminal charges, so we will keep you informed and prepared, offering guidance and advocacy every step of the way.
Criminal charges lead to a lot of questions. Below are some of the most common ones our law office receives. Nicholson Goetz & Otis, S.C., is available to answer any additional questions and provide guidance tailored to your situation when you contact us today.
What should I do immediately after being arrested in Watertown, WI?
If law enforcement arrests you, remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Don’t discuss your case with police or other officials without a lawyer present. When you contact our criminal defense attorneys right away, that allows us to investigate the arrest and protect your rights from the beginning.
How do I find out what the prosecution charged me with?
Charges are formally presented during the arraignment in court, and your lawyer will likely help you find out even before the hearing. At the arraignment, the judge reads the complaint and asks you to enter a plea. Even if the paperwork seems confusing, the court record will show the exact criminal statute cited. Your attorney can explain the specific elements of the charges, possible penalties, and whether they’re felonies or misdemeanors.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Wisconsin?
Felonies are the most serious crimes and can lead to lengthy prison sentences. They often have lasting consequences for employment and civil rights, even after your sentence is complete. Misdemeanors carry shorter jail time, lower fines, and generally less severe long-term impacts. Both categories, however, result in a criminal record. A Watertown criminal defense lawyer can help determine whether the charges might be reduced or dismissed.
Can I represent myself in a criminal case in Watertown?
You have the right to self-representation, but it can be very risky. Criminal proceedings involve complex rules of evidence and procedures. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys serving Watertown can identify legal issues that may not be obvious and advocate on your behalf both in court and during negotiations. Representing yourself could limit your ability to challenge evidence or preserve your legal rights.
How do plea bargains work in Wisconsin?
A plea bargain is an agreement with the prosecution to resolve your case without going to trial. You might plead guilty in exchange for reduced charges or penalties, like a shorter jail sentence or smaller fines. Your lawyer will review any offer carefully. The goal is to weigh any potential benefits against your defense options.
It’s important to remember that a plea bargain is not automatic, and that you should only take the deal if it’s in your best interests.
Can evidence be excluded from my case?
It’s not guaranteed, but it’s common. Evidence can be suppressed if law enforcement collected it in violation of your Constitutional rights – often through an unlawful search or seizure or improper arrest. Filing a motion to suppress can lead to the court throwing out the unlawfully collected evidence. If enough key evidence is excluded, the prosecution may lack proof to proceed, which can lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
Can I get bail or release before trial?
Often, but it depends on multiple factors. Bail decisions factor in the exact charges and how serious they are. Wisconsin judges will also consider your criminal history and whether you’re a flight risk. Our law firm can argue for reasonable bail terms and explain any bond conditions.
Will past convictions affect my current case?
They certainly can. Past offenses do not automatically determine the outcome, but they are a factor in charges and sentencing. In some instances, they can affect your eligibility for diversion programs. Our law firm can identify possible challenges and argue for a fair outcome in court.
