Disorderly conduct and battery are serious offenses in Wisconsin, carrying severe penalties that can impact your life for years to come. But what exactly sets them apart? At The Everson Law Firm, we’ve been representing Wisconsinites in criminal cases such as disorderly conduct and battery since 1916. Here’s what you need to know about the definition, potential consequences and defense strategies to protect your rights when dealing with these serious crimes.
What is Disorderly Conduct in Wisconsin?
According to State of Wisconsin Statute 947.01, disorderly conduct involves engaging in violent, abusive, indecent, profane, boisterous or unreasonably loud conduct under circumstances in which the conduct tends to cause or provoke a disturbance. Under the right circumstances, disorderly conduct can include very loud arguments, vulgar language like cursing or swearing, racial slurs, threatening bodily harm to another person, causing them to fear they will be harmed or killed, or even minor physical altercations like pushing, shoving or slapping..
What is Battery in Wisconsin?
The crime of battery as laid out in Wisconsin Statute § 940.19(1), involves intentionally causing bodily harm to another person. The degree of harm caused may determine the severity of the battery charge. For example, a battery that causes only mild injuries like a bruise, a scratch, or physical pain may be charged out as a battery, whereas a more serious injury that requires stitches or a broken bone or loss of consciousness may be charged as a felony substantial battery. Another important differentiation between battery charges is if the crime was perpetrated against a pregnant woman or an elder (defined as an individual 60 years or older). Battery against individuals in these categories typically results in more severe charges.
What is Aggravated Battery in Wisconsin?
Simply put: Aggravated battery can be appropriate when a dangerous weapon was used or more serious bodily harm, such as battery resulting in long-term or permanent injuries or impairment, was caused by the perpetrator. If an attack resulted in very serious bodily harm or otherwise poses a substantial risk of death or causes serious permanent disfigurement, it could fall under aggravated battery.
What is Assault and Aggravated Assault in Wisconsin?
Unlike many other states, Wisconsin law does not include a charge for assault or aggravated assault (other than sexual assault as described in Wisconsin Statutue 940.225). Instead, offenses that would typically be categorized as assault in other states usually fall under either disorderly conduct or battery, depending on whether or not another person sustained bodily harm, or if bodily harm was only threatened.
The Everson Law Firm: Your Ally in Navigating Wisconsin's Legal System
Facing criminal charges in the State of Wisconsin’s legal system can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. The experienced attorneys at The Everson Law Firm understand the nuances of Wisconsin's laws, understand your rights as a resident of the Badger State and have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against serious charges for over 100 years.
Don't let criminal charges derail your life. Contact The Everson Law Firm today to find the ally you want in your corner. Remember, in the eyes of the law, you're innocent until proven guilty – and we're committed to ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
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