What is an Attempted Crime?

By Carlos Gamino

In the state of Wisconsin, you can get in trouble for trying to commit a crime – even if you never actually go through with the crime. And even worse, the penalties can be nearly as severe for attempted crime as they are for the actual commission of a crime.

Here’s what you need to know.

What is an Attempted Crime?

The state of Wisconsin can charge you with attempted crime if you had the intent to perform certain acts that would constitute a crime, even if something prevents you from committing the crime. Here’s an example: Let’s say you reach into a car’s open window to steal something, but the car’s owner comes out and chases you off before you can grab the object you intended to steal. The state of Wisconsin can charge you with an attempted crime because you tried to steal something – you just didn’t actually get it.

Under Wisconsin law, the state can charge you with an attempted crime if you had the intent to commit a crime – and you would have committed a crime if your plans hadn’t been interrupted by another person or some other factor.

Related: What is juvenile delinquency in Wisconsin?

What Kinds of Attempted Crimes Can You Be Charged With?

You can be charged attempted crime for anything in the Wisconsin Statutes. You can be charged with attempted:

What Are the Penalties for Attempted Crime?

Although every case is different, the penalty for an attempted crime is half the penalty for a completed crime. If you would have been sentenced to 6 months in jail for actually something out of the car in the example above, you might be looking at a 3-month jail sentence for attempting to steal something.

Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Attempted Crime Charges?

If you’ve been charged with attempting a crime – any crime – we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 now to schedule your free consultation. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and give you the legal advice you need to get the best possible outcome in your case.

Carlos Gamino