Class A Misdemeanors in Wisconsin: What You Need to Know (2025)

Facing a criminal charge of any kind can be overwhelming, but if you are charged with a Class A misdemeanor in Wisconsin, the stakes are especially high. While not a felony, a Class A misdemeanor is the most serious level of misdemeanor offense and carries harsh penalties that can permanently impact your life. Understanding what’s at risk—and how to fight back—is critical.

What Is a Class A Misdemeanor in Wisconsin?

Under Wisconsin law, a Class A misdemeanor is defined as a criminal offense punishable by:

• Up to 9 months in jail

• A fine of up to $10,000

• Or both jail time and a fine
  (Wis. Stat. § 939.51)

Examples of Class A Misdemeanors

Class A misdemeanors encompass a wide range of criminal behavior, including but not limited to:

• Misdemeanor Battery

• Theft of property valued under $2,500

• Criminal Damage to Property (Vandalism) under $2,500

• Obstructing or Resisting a Police Officer

• Misdemeanor Bail Jumping

• 4th Degree Sexual Assault

• Indecent Exposure

• Hit and Run (involving minor injuries)

• Prostitution and Patronizing a Prostitute

• Harassment involving threats of death or serious harm

• Criminal Trespass to Dwelling

• Carrying a Concealed Weapon without a permit

Each offense can come with its own set of specific circumstances that either worsen or mitigate the potential consequences.

Penalties for a Class A Misdemeanor Conviction

If convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, you could face:

• Jail Time: Up to 9 months in a county jail.

• Fines: Up to $10,000.

• Probation: Many misdemeanor convictions result in probation with strict conditions, such as mandatory counseling, community service, or sobriety requirements.

• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): For certain offenses like OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) with aggravating factors.

• Loss of Rights: Some convictions (particularly involving domestic violence) may lead to lifetime firearm prohibitions.

Additionally, a Class A misdemeanor conviction will stay on your record unless successfully expunged—and expungement is rare unless specific criteria are met.

How a Class A Misdemeanor Can Impact Your Life

• Employment: Many employers conduct background checks and may rescind offers or terminate employment upon discovering a criminal conviction.

• Professional Licensing: Certain professional fields—such as education, healthcare, or finance—require clean criminal records for certification or licensing.

• Housing: Landlords may deny applications based on criminal history.

• Reputation: A criminal conviction can affect personal relationships and damage your reputation in your community.

How to Fight a Class A Misdemeanor Charge

Successfully defending against a Class A misdemeanor requires a deep understanding of both the law and the strategic options available.

A Few Common Defense Strategies:

• Challenging the Arrest: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the stop, search, or arrest, crucial evidence may be thrown out.

• Mistaken Identity: Showing that you were not the person involved in the incident.

• Lack of Evidence: The burden of proof rests with the prosecution. If they can't prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, charges must be dismissed.

• Procedural Errors: Failures by law enforcement or prosecutors can sometimes result in case dismissals.

At Stangl Law, we meticulously investigate every detail of your case, file motions to suppress improper evidence, and aggressively negotiate for charge reductions—or fight for outright dismissal when possible.

Can a Class A Misdemeanor Be Expunged?

Expungement in Wisconsin is limited and not guaranteed. To be eligible for expungement of a Class A misdemeanor:

• You must have been under 25 years old at the time of the offense.

• You must have successfully completed your sentence (including probation).

• The court must find that expungement would benefit you and not harm society.

Even then, expungement is at the court’s discretion. Without expungement, the conviction could remain on your record for 20 years or more.

Class A Misdemeanor vs. Felony

While a felony carries more severe consequences, a Class A misdemeanor conviction is still a serious matter. It can cost you your freedom, your job, your rights, and your future. Anything more serious than a Class A misdemeanor in Wisconsin is classified as a felony.

Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

Fighting a Class A misdemeanor alone—or relying on a court-appointed attorney with overwhelming caseloads—puts your future at risk. At Stangl Law, we believe you are only guilty if you are convicted. We:

• Examine every angle of your case

• Challenge weak evidence

• Fight to suppress improperly obtained evidence

• Negotiate aggressively to reduce or dismiss charges

• Prepare to go to trial if needed to defend your rights

Attorney Pat Stangl has built a reputation for strong, strategic defense and achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious misdemeanor charges.

Key Takeaways

• Class A misdemeanors in Wisconsin are the most serious non-felony offenses, punishable by up to 9 months in jail and $10,000 in fines.

• Examples include misdemeanor battery, theft under $2,500, obstruction, indecent exposure, and bail jumping.

• A conviction can have lasting effects on your record, employment, professional licensing, and reputation.

• Defending your case aggressively and early with the help of a seasoned criminal defense attorney is critical.

Facing a Class A Misdemeanor in Wisconsin? Contact Stangl Law Today.

If you or a loved one is facing a Class A misdemeanor charge, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Stangl Law today for a FREE consultation and find out how we can help you fight back, protect your rights, and secure your future.