Milwaukee Eluding Police Attorney

Accused of Eluding a Police Officer?

The offense of eluding a police officer involves attempting to evade or flee from a law enforcement officer after the officer has attempted to stop the defendant for a traffic violation or other offense. Wisconsin law defines the offense of eluding police as a separate offense, separate from the underlying offense that prompted the officer to initiate the traffic stop.

Eluding police is a serious criminal offense that can result in severe consequences, including jail time and steep fines. If you have been accused of eluding police, it is crucial that you seek legal representation as soon as possible. At Ritter Law Office, LLP, we have extensive experience successfully defending individuals against charges of eluding police and other serious crimes.

Contact us online or call (414) 441-4321 today to learn how we can help you!

What Are the Penalties for Eluding Police in Wisconsin?

The penalties for eluding a police officer depend on the circumstances of the offense. In general, the offense is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines.

However, if a person was injured during the attempt to elude police or if a person was killed as a result of the attempt to elude police, the offense is a felony. A felony conviction can result in a prison sentence, monetary fines, and the loss of various rights, including the right to vote and the right to own firearms. If a person is convicted of a felony, he or she may also find it difficult to obtain employment and housing.

What Is the Minimum Jail Time for Eluding Police?

The minimum jail time for eluding police is a minimum of 10 days in jail. However, a person may be jailed for up to six months if he or she has been convicted of a similar offense within the past five years. If a person has been convicted of two or more offenses within the past five years, the minimum jail time increases to 90 days.

It is important to note that jail time is not the only penalty that a person may face if convicted of eluding police. A person may also face fines, community service, and license revocation or suspension.

What Are the Penalties for Eluding Police While Carrying a Weapon?

A person may face increased penalties for eluding police while carrying a weapon. This is called "aggravating circumstances." If a person is carrying a weapon while eluding police, he or she may be charged with a Class G felony, which is punishable by up to six years in prison and fines.

How Do I Fight a Charge of Eluding Police?

There are several defenses that may be available in an eluding police case. For example, if a police officer was not in a recognizable police vehicle or was not wearing a police uniform, a person may be able to argue that the person did not know that the person attempting to stop them was a police officer.

It is also important to note that a person may not be convicted of eluding police if the police officer did not follow proper procedures when initiating the traffic stop. For example, a person may not be convicted of eluding police if the police officer failed to activate his or her overhead lights or siren.

Contact a Milwaukee Eluding Police Attorney

If you are facing charges for eluding police, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. At Ritter Law Office, LLP, we have the experience and skill necessary to defend you against the charges you are facing. We understand that a conviction for eluding police can have a serious impact on your life, and we are prepared to work tirelessly on your behalf.

Contact our Milwaukee eluding police attorneys at (414) 441-4321 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.