Truth in sentencing in Wisconsin is a way to ensure that convicted offenders serve a minimum amount of time in jail or prison. In the early 1990s (and before), Wisconsin laws allowed judges to impose a sentence on a convicted offender, who could later get out of prison early and serve the rest of his or her sentence on parole.
Today, truth in sentencing laws prevent that from happening. The courts can impose sentences with “parole” built right in (but under the name “extended supervision” instead).
Truth in Sentencing in Wisconsin
Inmates who committed offenses before the year 2000 are typically eligible for discretionary release on parole after they serve 25 percent of their sentence – but under Wisconsin’s truth in sentencing laws, most inmates automatically receive a bifurcated sentence.
Related: What is extended supervision in Wisconsin?
What is a Bifurcated Sentence?
A bifurcated sentence is a sentence that requires a person to serve time behind bars as well as time on extended supervision.
The part of a bifurcated sentence that imposes confinement in prison can’t be less than a year. In fact, here are the limits on confinement in prison:
- Class B felony: 40 years
- Class C felony: 25 years
- Class D felony: 15 years
- Class E felony: 10 years
- Class F felony: 7 years, 6 months
- Class G felony: 5 years
- Class H felony: 3 years
- Class I felony: 1 year, 6 months
Related: What can happen if you violate the terms of your extended supervision?
What Happens on Extended Supervision Based on Truth in Sentencing in Wisconsin?
During the extended supervision period, the person must meet with a court-appointed official periodically. The court can require a person to do other things, too, such as attend drug or alcohol counseling.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Possible Sentencing for a Crime?
If you’ve been accused of a crime – any crime – we may be able to help you. Call us right now at 414-383-6700 to talk about your case. We’ll answer your questions, tell you about possible outcomes (including supervision), and start building a strategy that gets you the best possible outcome.
