Watertown Criminal Defense Attorneys Criminal defense trial lawyers serving Jefferson County

Grieve Law’s criminal defense attorneys in Watertown represent individuals facing criminal charges in state courts across Wisconsin. With several locations surrounding the Watertown area and a record of aggressive, results-driven representation since 2013, we handle DUI, drug, misdemeanor, and felony cases.

Our Watertown criminal defense attorneys work with you to build the best defense possible to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether. With several former prosecutors on our team, we know what the other side might throw at you and how to handle it. Take charge of your situation and contact us for a free consultation. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, contact our Watertown law office to find out how we can get your charges dropped.

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Criminal Cases We Defend in Watertown

Grieve Law’s team of criminal defense lawyers is experienced in dropping and reducing criminal charges of all kinds. Our Watertown criminal defense experience includes:

Grieve Law Watertown Criminal Defense Attorneys

Award-winning Criminal Defense Attorneys in Watertown, WI

The criminal defense attorneys at Grieve Law of Watertown are award-winning trial lawyers who've earned a reputation for success in Wisconsin's criminal court system.

Our Awards and Honors:

  • Top trial lawyers in Wisconsin awardTop 100 Trial Lawyers in Wisconsin & Top 40 Under 40 in Wisconsin
  • Top 10 criminal defense lawyer rankingNation's Premier Top Ten Ranking
  • Premier 100 Designation awardPremier 100 Designation
  • Clients' choice award for DUI defense awardClients' Choice Award for DUI Defense & Top Attorney Criminal Defense
  • Super Lawyers Wisconsin Rising Star awardWisconsin Rising Star
  • Legal Superstars Award for Criminal Defense AttorneysLegal Superstars Award & Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in the Country
  • Milwaukee Magazine Top attorneys in Wisconsin AwardTop Attorneys in Wisconsin
  • Madison Magazine's top attorneys in Wisconsin awardTop Attorneys in Wisconsin

When to Hire a Watertown Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you face criminal charges, contact a trusted criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible, preferably well before your court date. Acting early lets your attorney build a strong defense, gather evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case. Waiting until after a conviction makes it much harder to reduce or drop your charges. Time is critical when protecting your rights and future.

Many defendants believe they have no chance when the evidence seems stacked against them. However, that’s not true. Our experienced attorneys identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate favorable plea deals, and even get charges dismissed entirely.

Whether you face a misdemeanor or a felony charge, having legal representation is essential. Misdemeanors may be less severe than felonies, but they can still lead to penalties such as jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Felony charges are more serious, often resulting in long prison sentences and life-altering consequences.

Regardless of the charge's severity, early and proactive legal representation can significantly affect your case's outcome. Take control of your defense—your future may depend on it. Remember: You Are Only Guilty If You Are Convicted®

Misdemeanor Charges in Watertown, WI

In Watertown, Wisconsin, as in the rest of the state, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less severe than a felony but more serious than a civil infraction. Misdemeanors are punishable by:

  1. Maximum Jail Time: Up to one year in a county or local jail (not state prison).
  2. Fines: From under $500 up to $10,000 based on the specific offense.
  3. Community Service or Probation: Instead of or in addition to jail time and fines.

Wisconsin classifies misdemeanors into three classes (A, B, C, and U) based on the severity of the crime, with corresponding penalties:

For those facing misdemeanor charges in Watertown, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of the law. Grieve Law's Watertown criminal defense lawyers are seasoned trial attorneys with expertise in handling all types of Wisconsin misdemeanors.

Felony Charges in Watertown, WI

A felony conviction in Watertown, Wisconsin, carries severe penalties, including long state prison sentences and significant fines. Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors and have lasting consequences. Individuals convicted of felonies often face restrictions on basic rights, such as voting, owning firearms, and finding stable employment.

Wisconsin categorizes felonies into nine classes (A through I) based on the severity of the crime, with corresponding penalties:

  • Class A Felony: Life imprisonment. Examples include first-degree intentional homicide.
  • Class B Felony: Up to 60 years in prison. Examples include second-degree intentional homicide and sexual assault involving a dangerous weapon.
  • Class C Felony: Up to 40 years in prison and/or fines up to $100,000. Examples include armed robbery and certain drug trafficking offenses.
  • Class D Felony: Up to 25 years in prison and/or fines up to $100,000. Examples include vehicular homicide and aggravated battery.
  • Class E Felony: Up to 15 years in prison and/or fines up to $50,000. Examples include burglary and certain forgery crimes.
  • Class F Felony: Up to 12.5 years in prison and/or fines up to $25,000. Examples include theft of property valued between $10,000-$100,000 and stalking.
  • Class G Felony: Up to 10 years in prison and/or fines up to $25,000. Examples include theft of property valued between $5,000-$10,000 and third-degree sexual assault.
  • Class H Felony: Up to 6 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000. Examples include repeated OWI offenses and theft of property valued between $2,500-$5,000.
  • Class I Felony: Up to 3.5 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000. Examples include criminal damage to property and certain drug possession offenses.

Felony convictions can result in probation, community service, or mandatory rehabilitation programs, depending on the circumstances of the case.
If you're facing felony charges in Watertown, you need a strong legal advocate. The criminal defense lawyers are skilled trial lawyers with a proven history of defending felony cases. We work tirelessly to navigate the legal system, reduce or dismiss charges, protect your rights, and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Aggressive Trial Attorneys

Regardless of your charge, Grieve Law's attorneys will defend you aggressively. You have constitutional rights and our award-winning team of attorneys will ensure your rights are intact. In addition to your rights, we'll also defend your reputation. Wisconsin's CCAP system allows anyone–potential employers, friends, and family members–to access your case information. If you are convicted, you may live with a public record for the rest of your life. When your case gets dismissed, your charges will be removed from CCAP after two years.

Our Watertown defense attorneys will go down every possible avenue for your case to get you the best possible outcome. Grieve Law attorneys win reduced charges, full dismissals, and industry awards for our results.