Wisconsin Laws and Legal Penalties
Comprehensive legal reference for Wisconsin. Browse DUI laws, drug possession penalties, theft charges, statutes of limitations, and more. All information is sourced from public state statutes.
Note: This information is for general educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Wisconsin Quick Facts
- State Capital: Madison
- Region: Midwest
- DUI BAC Limit: 0.08%
- Marijuana Status: Illegal
- Felony Theft Threshold: $2,500+
- Murder SOL: None
Wisconsin DUI Laws
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense DUI | No jail (1st), $150–$300 fine, 6–9 month suspension |
| Second Offense DUI | 5 days–6 months jail, $350–$1,100 fine, 12–18 month revocation |
| Felony DUI Threshold | 4th offense |
| Legal BAC Limit | 0.08% |
Wisconsin's first OWI is a civil infraction, not criminal
Wisconsin Marijuana Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Illegal |
| Medical Program | No |
| Recreational Use | No |
| Small Amount Penalty | Misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000 fine (first offense) |
| Large Amount Penalty | Felony for repeat offense or larger amounts |
Wisconsin has some of the stricter marijuana laws
Wisconsin Theft Penalties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor Threshold | Under $2,500 |
| Felony Threshold | $2,500+ or more |
| Minimum Sentence | Up to 9 months |
| Maximum Sentence | Up to 15 years (Class D felony) |
Wisconsin retail theft has specific aggravated charges
Wisconsin Statutes of Limitations
| Crime Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Murder | None |
| Rape / Sexual Assault | None (6 years for some) |
| Felony (General) | 6 years |
| Misdemeanor | 3 years |
| Fraud | 6 years |
| Theft | 6 years |
| DUI / DWI | 3 years |
| Assault | 6 years |
Wisconsin Class A felonies and murder have no SOL