Given how often they show up in television shows, almost everyone has heard of a plea bargain or plea deal. As we all know, however, the reality is a bit different from TV. First things first, plea deals are a real legal concept and they are used by Wisconsin prosecutors. They can be very helpful in minimizing the consequences of a crime, but automatically accepting an offer may not always be your best choice. Here's what you need to know about plea bargains in Wisconsin.

Most drivers associate OWIs with driving under the influence of alcohol, but in Wisconsin, you can also receive an OWI for driving under the influence of marijuana.

When facing your first misdemeanor or felony charge, it can be a trying and confusing time. Do you need a defense attorney? When should you hire one? Can an attorney really help you? The answers to those are questions are "Yes", "Immediately", and "Yes". There are many reasons to hire a criminal defense attorney, but the most important reason is to give yourself your best chance. Below, we share three of the biggest benefits of hiring a defense attorney

Drunk driving is punished severely in Wisconsin, but what qualifies as “driving”? Can you get an OWI on a bike? Technically, the answer is no, you cannot be charged with OWI for riding a bike while intoxicated. However, that does not mean you cannot be charged with other offenses.

Theft occurs when one person steals from another. In Wisconsin, there are different kinds of theft, which carry varying levels of severity and penalties. Larceny, for example, requires intention by one party to steal from another. Embezzlement occurs when one party misappropriates funds or property that was entrusted to them. A theft conviction can even arise from intellectual property theft, ownership rights, or the stealing of services or utilities.

Receiving an OWI for the first time in Wisconsin is a civil crime unless a passenger under 16 years of age is in the vehicle at the time. In that case, it becomes a criminal offense. To no surprise, the penalties for this offense are severe.