Milwaukee Criminal Law Attorney

Everyone who has ever faced a criminal charge already understands the extreme level of stress and fear that comes with the pressure of the case building against you. Criminal accusations threaten to rob you of your freedom, your reputation and your personal relationships. As your criminal defense attorneys, we can help you take back some small amount of control.

At Laster & Associates, we are criminal defense attorneys dedicated to the protection of your rights. At the local level, you have many powerful protections that police and prosecutors will ignore. We step in for our clients to fight off the overreach of the authorities in their investigation of you.

Experience And Attention That Make A Difference

For more than 25 years, we’ve worked closely with clients facing the highest stakes in criminal cases. Where we set ourselves apart from other firms is our dedication to compassion and attentiveness to our clients’ legal fears and personal challenges.

We fight for our client-facing charges, such as:

• Drunk driving: OWI/DUI charges in Wisconsin are among the most common criminal charges, and the consequences are not minor.
• Gun-related charges: From firearm aggravated charges to armed robbery, these charges can quickly raise the stakes in your criminal case.
• Domestic violence: Domestic battery is one of those areas where family law and criminal law intersect. Our insight here is extremely valuable for your defense.
• Drug crimes: We work with our clients on trafficking, possession and manufacturing charges, which the state vigorously pursues.

In addition, as your attorneys, we can help you with the pursuit of an expungement or a pardon as the circumstances arise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Law In Wisconsin

If you are facing criminal charges, it is critical to get as much information as possible. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:

What are my rights if I am arrested in Milwaukee?

If you are arrested, your key rights include the right to know the charges against you, the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not argue or resist arrest, even if you believe that the arrest is unfair or unlawful. Instead, invoke your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Beyond your identifying information, do not talk to the police or answer any questions, since anything you say could potentially be used against you.

Will I have to stay in jail until my trial, or can I be released on bail?

Whether you have to stay in jail or you will be released on bail depends on the decision of the judge at your bail hearing. The judge will consider the seriousness of the charges, your prior criminal history (if any) and the likelihood that you might flee. For minor crimes, you may be released on bail or with only a promise to appear for court dates. You are more likely to be denied bail if you are charged with a violent crime.

Do I really need to hire a criminal defense lawyer, or can I represent myself?

Representing yourself in court against criminal charges is highly discouraged. An experienced defense attorney has the skills and training to investigate a case, spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and develop a strategic defense. Without an attorney, you are more likely to be convicted and face harsher penalties.

Are criminal records public in Wisconsin, and can they be expunged?

Criminal records are public in Wisconsin, and they can only be expunged under specific circumstances. That is one of the many reasons that it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your interests and your future, even when you are facing relatively minor charges.

Understand Your Rights And How We Will Protect Them

Whether you are charged with assault, harassment, disorderly conduct or murder, your rights protect you in many ways. From your right to remain silent to your right to an attorney to your freedom from illegal search and seizure, you have protections.

All you need now is an attorney willing to fight to affirm those protections. Your life, livelihood and reputation are at risk. We will get to work to preserve them with all of the skill and strength at our disposal. Call 414-973-1945 or send an email using this form.