Wisconsin District Attorneys
By Eric Harvey, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed December 05, 2023
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Each state has prosecuting attorneys who file criminal cases on behalf of the state government. Typically, the state government is divided into districts. Each county in Wisconsin is represented by its own district attorney's office.
When the state decides to charge someone with a crime, the corresponding district attorney will file charges. They do so in a document called the “information." But the information may not be filed if the case goes to a grand jury first.
In this article, you will learn about the role of Wisconsin district attorneys and how to contact them. But remember, it's best to work with an attorney before contacting the D.A. for any reason.
Contacting the District Attorney's Office
In some jurisdictions, the D.A.'s office will refuse to communicate with defendants. But even if they will speak to you, communicating with the prosecution involves risks. The first risk is that you may overlook opportunities to defeat the charges against you without discussing the case with the D.A.
The other risk is that you may reveal facts or strategies, worsening your situation. On the other hand, communicating with the prosecution may be necessary or helpful if you're doing any of the following:
- Seeking reduced charges
- Seeking pretrial diversion
- Trying to get a voluntary dismissal of the case
- Trying to get a plea bargain
Make sure you meet with an attorney before making such a decision since it can negatively impact your case.
Wisconsin Attorney General
The Wisconsin Attorney General (A.G.) is an elected position. They head the state's Department of Justice. They also represent the entire state in litigation and other legal matters. Both the A.G. and district attorneys (D.A.s) handle the administration of the criminal justice system. Underneath the D.A.s are the assistant district attorneys. They also assist with the administration of the criminal justice system. By doing so, these officials assist law enforcement in their duties. They carry out the enforcement of criminal law. In prosecuting crimes, these officials will make appearances in circuit courts.
A.G.s and D.A.s handle the prosecution of all crimes. Examples of these are:
- Child abuse
- Elder abuse
- Domestic violence
- Crimes of juvenile delinquency
- Criminal child support arrears
- Other offenses related to various citations and infractions
These officials also often organize community outreach initiatives. These initiatives involve providing assistance to crime victims. They also relate to reducing crime. These officials will also organize county boards to handle a variety of other issues concerning crime that can arise in a community.
Directory of Wisconsin County District Attorneys
Wisconsin is divided into 71 judicial circuits, each covering one county. The following links will help you contact the appropriate prosecutor's office.
Sheboygan County District Attorney |
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Note: We strive to provide the most current contact and website information available for the D.A. offices in this state. But this information is subject to change. If you have found contact or website information that is not current, please contact us.
Talk to a Lawyer Before Talking to a Wisconsin District Attorney
If you've been charged with a crime, it's almost always in your best interests to work with a legal professional, especially if you plan on reaching out to the prosecutor for any reason. A skilled attorney will understand the law and how to represent you best. Get started on your case today by speaking with an experienced Wisconsin criminal defense attorney near you.
It's important to know that you still have options, even if you can't afford an attorney. You could contact the office of the public defender. State public defenders provide free or low-cost legal representation to qualifying people. You could also contact Legal Action of Wisconsin. This organization provides free legal services and legal assistance to people with low income. If you need referrals for attorneys, contact the lawyer referral and information service at the State Bar of Wisconsin. They can provide free referrals for attorneys statewide. It's important to get the legal advice and legal assistance you need.
The accessibility of legal resources in the state of Wisconsin is far and wide. Whatever your unique set of circumstances, the free legal information and legal resources available in the state will help you answer your legal questions.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.