SCOW Finds Generic Conduct in “High Crime Area” Created Reasonable Suspicion of Criminal Activity

November 3, 2021 | Court Hearings

The Wisconsin Supreme Court continues to make life harder for criminal defendants throughout the state, broadening law enforcement’s power through its recent rulings. In one case, the Supreme Court has practically criminalized being in a “high-crime area,” allowing officers practically unlimited ability to view any ordinary behavior in these areas as a pretext to search possible suspects. With rulings like these, defendants need attorneys more than ever to help them fight illegal searches and seizures.

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How Criminal Convictions Can Be Particularly Damaging for Students

November 9, 2020 | Criminal Convictions

After high school, many young adults spend time exploring the world and figuring out who they are. This means that some mistakes will be made. Unfortunately, for young adults who are enrolled in a trade school, community college, or university, these mistakes can have consequences that last for years. Students who have criminal convictions might have to deal with a school disciplinary board and might have trouble obtaining a professional license, which could completely bar them from a chosen career. This is why it is so important for students to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer for any criminal charges – even those that seem minor. The sooner an attorney gets involved, the better options he or she will have for resolving your case. The investment of attorney’s fees now can protect your future career plans for years to come.

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Preliminary Hearings in Wisconsin

October 27, 2020 | Court Hearings

If you have been charged with a felony offense, you have a legal right to a preliminary hearing in your case. In felony cases, a preliminary hearing is the court appearance that follows the initial appearance hearing. In misdemeanor criminal cases, there is no preliminary hearing. Preliminary hearings are also known as preliminary examinations, probable cause hearings, or simply as ‘prelims.’ As the individual who is accused of committing a criminal offense, you do not have a right to testify at a preliminary hearing. In other words, you cannot take the witness stand and talk about your version of events. However, your lawyer has the right cross-examine any witnesses, including police officers and others, whom the prosecuting attorney calls as a witness. The court will then make a determination about whether probable cause exists to charge you with the felony offense. If you are facing a felony criminal charge, it … Continued

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Initial Court Appearances in Wisconsin

October 13, 2020 | Court Hearings

If you have been charged with committing a crime in the State of Wisconsin, your first court appearance will be an initial appearance hearing. In some courts, this initial proceeding is referred to as an arraignment proceeding.

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Defending Against Disorderly Conduct Charges After Wisconsin Protests

September 23, 2020 | Criminal Defense Attorney

The First Amendment guarantees your right to peaceably assemble and express yourself by engaging in lawful protests. Neither the federal government nor the state may unduly restrict this aspect of free speech. As such, Wisconsin courts closely scrutinize criminal laws limiting your rights to protest. Even otherwise lawful criminal statutes might be unlawfully applied to your case.

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Focusing on the Quality of the Client Experience: What to Look for When Hiring an Attorney

August 27, 2020 | Criminal Defense Attorney

Close to 90% of Americas experience a legal need at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, some people hesitate to contact an attorney for fear of excessive fees and drawn-out litigation. However, many legal professionals resolve many matters in less than six months and for less than $5,000. If you need an Outagamie County lawyer, look for the following client-centered factors before signing a retainer agreement and speak with the professional Appleton attorneys at Hogan Eickhoff by calling (920) 450-9800 or contacting us online to receive a free consultation.

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The Long-Term Consequences of a Sex Crimes Conviction

October 29, 2019 | Criminal Defense Attorney

Every criminal conviction has its consequences, but few more so than a conviction for a sex crime. From restrictions on where you can live, travel, and work, sexual offenders are subject to more than just fines and incarceration. If you’re facing allegations of a federal or state sex crime, it’s critical to understand the long-term consequences of a conviction before accepting a plea bargain or proceeding to trial. Sex offender status can affect every aspect of your life long after your court-imposed sentence has come to an end. The only way to avoid the long-term consequences of a sex crimes conviction is to avoid the conviction itself. Whether this means zealously defending your rights at trial, appealing an adverse judgment, or applying for an expungement, the experienced Outagamie, Brown, Winnebago, Calumet, and Waupaca County sex crimes defense attorneys at Hogan Eickhoff stand with you. Schedule you free, confidential criminal defense … Continued

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Pretrial Release in Wisconsin

September 12, 2019 | Legal Advice

In our role as Appleton criminal defense attorneys, individuals regularly contact us with issues related to pretrial release – specifically cash bail and bond conditions. While these terms are often used interchangeably by lawyers, judges, and others in the criminal justice system, technically, bond refers to the conditions of pretrial release, and bail refers to a monetary condition of bond (money you put up to get out of jail). Once you have attended all court appearances and your case is disposed of, you should get any bail you posted back. The Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution states that “excessive bail shall not be required.” In addition, when you have been arrested and are awaiting trial, Wisconsin law allows you to be released under “reasonable conditions.” These conditions are designed to: Assure your appearance in court Protect members of the community from serious bodily harm Prevent the intimidation of … Continued

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