Legal Question in Criminal Law in Wisconsin

Yes, starting at age 12 through 17, WI children are subject to juvenile delinquency charges using the same criminal code as adults, while younger children can only be brought to court for child welfare/protective services matters (aka "CHIPS"). Juvenile delinquency proceedings, however, are usually confidential proceedings, often protected from public view, but all records remain fully available to law enforcement, judges and case workers for life. Any sexual misconduct by a juvenile can also potentially lead to lifelong sex offender labeling, which can become public record information once the child becomes an adult. If your child is facing such a charge, it is therefore critical to retain an experienced criminal lawyer as soon as possible.

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