In the state of Wisconsin, people who have been convicted of a felony aren’t allowed to own firearms – it’s against the law. But what are Wisconsin’s felon in possession of a firearm’s sentencing guidelines, and how much time could a person spend in jail for a conviction? This guide explains.
Felon in Possession of a Firearm: Sentencing Guidelines in Wisconsin
If you’ve been convicted of a felony in Wisconsin, or of a crime elsewhere that would be a felony if it was committed in Wisconsin, you can’t have a firearm in your possession. If you do, you’re looking at a Class G felony.
What if You Have Convictions in Another State or Another Country?
The law is very clear – it says you can’t have a firearm and you’re guilty of a Class G felony if you have “been convicted of a crime elsewhere that would be a felony if committed in this state.” That means if you have a criminal record somewhere else, it’s up to you to determine whether the crimes you were convicted of there would count as felonies here. If they would, you cannot have a firearm.
What if You Were Found Not Guilty of a Crime By Reason of a Mental Disease or Defect?
Under Wisconsin law, if you were found not guilty of a felony “by reason of a mental disease or defect” (the law’s words, not ours) in Wisconsin or anywhere else, you’re not allowed to possess a firearm.
What’s the Sentence for Felon in Possession of a Firearm?
If the state convicts you of felon in possession of a firearm, you could spend up to 10 years in prison and pay fines of up to $10,000. The judge in your case can mix-and-match the two penalties.
A Word on “Possession” of a Firearm
You can be subject to felon in possession of a firearm sentencing guidelines even if you don’t own a gun. In fact, you can be convicted of felon in possession if you held someone else’s gun or if you had access to a gun and could exercise control of it. It doesn’t have to be your gun.
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About the Felon in Possession of a Firearm Sentencing Guidelines in Wisconsin?
If you’ve been accused of being a felon in possession of a firearm, we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 now to schedule your free consultation with an experienced professional who will evaluate your case and give you the legal answers you need.
