A Class U misdemeanor in Wisconsin is an unclassified offense that carries varying penalties depending on the specific charge. Many Class U misdemeanors result in up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $1,000, though penalties may differ based on statutory guidelines (Wis. Stat. § 939.51). Even though they are not classified under Class A, B, or C misdemeanors, Class U offenses can still have serious legal and personal consequences. Grieve Law is here to defend you and protect your future.

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What Is a Class U Misdemeanor in Wisconsin?

Unlike other misdemeanor classifications, Class U misdemeanors are a catch-all category for offenses that carry county jail time but do not fall under Wisconsin’s standard Class A, Class B, or Class C misdemeanor designations. Many Class U misdemeanor penalties are set by specific statutes, but if not, the maximum penalty is generally 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. 

Even though Class U misdemeanors may not sound as serious as higher-level misdemeanors, a conviction can still impact your life. Without legal representation, you risk fines, jail time, and a potentially permanent criminal record. The best way to protect yourself is to work with an experienced defense attorney who understands the nuances of Wisconsin law and can challenge the prosecution’s case.

Types of Class U Misdemeanors

Class U misdemeanors cover a broad range of offenses, from traffic violations to drug possession and OWI-related offenses. Grieve Law has experience defending clients against charges such as:

• Second offense OWI
• Third offense OWI
• Hit-and-run with no injuries
• Underage OWI
• OWI with a minor in the vehicle
• Boating under the influence
• Hunting violations
• Possession of Marijuana
• Possession of Cocaine, LSD, or Amphetamines

A Class U misdemeanor conviction can carry significant penalties and long-term consequences. Prosecutors often seek maximum punishments, but Grieve Law knows how to fight back and work toward dismissing or reducing charges. If you’ve been accused of a Class U misdemeanor in Wisconsin, you are only guilty if you are convicted™. Call Grieve Law today for a free consultation.

 

Defenses for a Class U Misdemeanor

Being charged with a Class U misdemeanor can feel overwhelming, but a charge does not mean a conviction. Grieve Law builds customized defense strategies to fight these charges, beginning from your initial court appearance and preliminary hearings. Our attorneys examine every detail of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments. Our defense tactics include: 

• Examining Arrest Procedures: If law enforcement fails to follow proper procedures or violates your rights during the arrest, the case may be thrown out before trial. 
• Challenging the Evidence: Many Class U misdemeanor cases involve breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, or police reports. If any of these were improperly conducted or flawed, we will challenge their validity. 
• Filing Pre-Trial Motions: Our attorneys file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges, which can drastically weaken the prosecution’s case. 
• Lack of Intent or Knowledge: Certain charges, such as drug possession or hit-and-run offenses, require the prosecution to prove intent. If intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, the charges may not hold up in court. 
• Negotiating for Reduced Charges: In many cases, we fight to have Class U misdemeanors downgraded to civil violations, avoiding criminal records and jail time altogether. 

Grieve Law knows how to navigate Wisconsin’s legal system to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

References: Classification of Misdemeanors: Wisconsin Statute § 939.51 (2025)