Getting a Juvenile Criminal Record Expunged in Wisconsin

 Posted on May 03, 2024 in Criminal Law

People can make serious errors of judgment when they act without thinking about the consequences. While that is true for everyone, it is especially true for youth whose brains are still developing and who have yet to learn the full weight of responsibility. Learning from your mistakes is a part of growing up and becoming an adult, but for some people, these mistakes can result in a criminal record that could haunt them well into the future.

People with criminal records can face difficulties years after their crimes when applying for college, jobs, housing, and even when dating. Fortunately, under certain conditions, the state of Wisconsin will grant a request to have a juvenile record expunged. That means the person’s name will be removed from all the records. This article will explain the process of requesting expungement, but if you have a juvenile record, speak with a skilled Waukesha, WI criminal defense attorney to understand your options.

When Can a Record Be Expunged?

If certain conditions are met, a Wisconsin judge will likely grant a request for juvenile record expungement. These conditions include:

• Records involving nonviolent felonies or misdemeanors.
• The applicant was younger than 25 at the time of the crime.
• The applicant pleaded guilty and served the full punishment and the terms of probation.
• The maximum sentence for the crime was six years imprisonment.

A request for expungement can only be submitted if all these conditions are met.

Recent Changes to Wisconsin Law

The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently passed some stricter rules about expunging juvenile records. In June 2021, it ruled that if someone violated any aspect of their sentence or probation, there would be no room for leniency in granting expungement. This is regardless of the severity of the juvenile crime that was committed. Therefore, if you were convicted of a crime, you must carry out your sentence fully if you have any hope of clearing your name off the record in the future.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Wisconsin Defense Lawyer

If you have a juvenile record and it is impacting your life years after, a qualified Oconomowoc, WI criminal defense attorney can review your case and advise you on possibilities for expungement. At Bucher, Wolff & Sonderhouse, LLP, we believe our clients deserve a second chance after having paid the price for their past crimes. Call us at 262-232-6699 to schedule a free consultation.