Fleeing and Eluding Lawyer – Charges in Wisconsin
Charged with fleeing and eluding a police officer in Wisconsin? At Avena Law Office, we provide aggressive criminal defense for individuals facing fleeing and eluding charges. With over a decade of legal experience in Wisconsin’s criminal justice system, I have represented clients across the state, offering expert counsel and passionate defense for those accused of violating Wisconsin’s fleeing and eluding statutes.
If you’ve been charged with fleeing and eluding, it’s essential to act fast. These charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. With my extensive courtroom experience and in-depth knowledge of the law, I can ensure your case is handled with the utmost attention, fighting tirelessly for the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been charged with fleeing and eluding, contact me today for a free consultation. I offer fixed-fee representation for most cases and accept credit card payments for your convenience.
What is Fleeing and Eluding an Officer in Wisconsin?
Under Wis. Stat. § 364.04(3), fleeing or eluding an officer occurs when a driver knowingly disregards a visual or audible signal from law enforcement and attempts to evade capture. This can be through a variety of actions such as speeding up, turning off lights, or other evasive maneuvers.
Examples of fleeing and eluding include:
- Speeding away from police: A driver increases their speed to evade a police officer attempting to stop them.
- Turning off headlights: A motorist switches off their headlights to make themselves less visible while attempting to escape the police.
- Weaving through traffic: A motorcyclist maneuvers dangerously to avoid a pursuing officer.
- Ignoring roadblocks: A driver bypasses a police roadblock in an attempt to escape.
- Taking evasive actions: A driver takes sharp turns or enters restricted areas, such as pedestrian zones, to avoid capture.
- Abandoning the vehicle: After stopping, a driver flees on foot to escape the police.
What Are The Elements of Fleeing and Eluding in Wisconsin?
To secure a conviction for fleeing and eluding under Wisconsin law, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- The defendant operated a motor vehicle after receiving a visual or audible signal from a law enforcement officer, with full knowledge that the officer was indeed law enforcement.
- The defendant willfully fled or attempted to elude the officer by ignoring the signal and taking evasive action, thereby endangering others or law enforcement.
What Are The Penalties for Fleeing and Eluding a Police Officer in Wisconsin?
Fleeing and eluding an officer in Wisconsin is classified as a Class I felony. A conviction can result in serious penalties, including:
- Up to 3.5 years in prison: For a Class I felony conviction.
- Substantial fines: Fines may be as high as $10,000, depending on the specific circumstances.
- Additional charges: If the prosecution alleges reckless endangerment or other crimes during the chase, penalties may increase dramatically.
In urban counties, prosecutors are often aggressive in recommending prison time as part of plea deals, which makes it even more critical to have an experienced defense lawyer representing you.
As an experienced Madison criminal defense attorney, I am dedicated to minimizing the impact of these charges. Whether through reduced charges, challenging the evidence, or advocating for a dismissal, I am committed to securing the best possible outcome for my clients.
Call Today To Schedule A Free Consultation With Experienced Madison Fleeing and Eluding Attorney Glenn Avena.
If you’re facing fleeing and eluding charges, the first step is securing a defense lawyer with the experience and knowledge to protect your rights. At Avena Law Office, we have successfully defended clients against all types of criminal charges, including fleeing and eluding, reckless driving, and related offenses.
Your rights matter, and you have options. Whether it’s challenging the evidence or seeking a plea deal, a strong defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best outcome.
Call Avena Law Office at (608) 271-2271 today to schedule your free, confidential consultation with a seasoned Madison fleeing and eluding attorney. Let me help you fight for your future.
Serving clients throughout Madison, Dane County, and surrounding areas including Columbia, Dodge, Fond du Lac, Grant, Green, Green Lake, Iowa, Jefferson, Lafayette, Marquette, Richland, Rock, and Sauk counties.