Wisconsin Criminal Records

A Wisconsin criminal record is a summary of a person's history with law enforcement and the state's judiciary. A criminal record shows information such as the date, time, location, and reason for the arrest, the charges filed by the prosecutor, the trial proceedings and verdict, the conviction and sentence imposed by the judge, and any other legal actions taken by the parties involved.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice Crime Information Bureau (CIB) oversees the central database of fingerprint-based criminal records containing comprehensive data on a person's legal activities. The CIB is responsible for collecting, storing, updating, and disseminating criminal records to authorized users, such as law enforcement agencies, courts, employers, and the public.

A criminal record consists of several elements, such as personal details, case numbers, arrest facts, charges brought, court outcomes, sentencing details, and records of imprisonment and release within the state correctional system. These elements provide a detailed account of a person's criminal history, which can significantly impact their life. For example, a criminal record can affect a person's employment opportunities, housing options, educational prospects, voting rights, firearm ownership, and immigration status.

Are Criminal Records Public in Wisconsin?

Yes. According to Wisconsin's Open Records Law, the state allows public access to adult criminal records. Yet, certain records are held back from public view, including those officially expunged, concealed, or forgiven by the court or governor. Additionally, any records harboring private information remain inaccessible to the public. The law also protects records associated with ongoing legal cases, future trials, or confidential sources, withholding them to safeguard the fairness and integrity of legal processes. Moreover, records governed by other state or federal laws, such as those involving young individuals, victims, witnesses, or national security issues, are shielded from public disclosure.

Wisconsin Crime Records by County

Crime data and records in Wisconsin are systematically organized and stored by county through the Wisconsin Centralized Criminal History Repository (CCH), which the Wisconsin Department of Justice manages. The CCH database contains comprehensive details encompassing arrests, charges, prosecutions, court outcomes, etc. Individuals interested in accessing crime data and records on a county level can use the avenues mentioned below.

Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) System: This platform offers public access to circuit court records across all Wisconsin counties. The system enables users to search based on criteria such as name, case number, county, and date range. It also provides information on pending cases and court schedules.

Direct Contact with Local Authorities: Requesters can contact the local law enforcement agency or court clerk in the specific county of interest. Request a copy of the desired crime data and records. The procedures, fees, and forms involved may vary among counties. Some counties may also offer online portals or databases for streamlined access to records.

Wisconsin Criminal Record Check

There are various methods and sources to complete a Wisconsin criminal record check, depending on the purpose and extent of the check.

The Wisconsin Online Record Check System (WORCS) is a convenient option. Users can submit and retrieve criminal history information online by creating an account and providing details like the person's name, date of birth, and other identifiers. WORCS taps into the Wisconsin Centralized Criminal History Repository (CCH) database for a comprehensive search.

Individuals can also use the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) system to conduct a criminal background search. Likewise, for those preferring a direct route, contacting the local law enforcement agency or court clerk in the relevant county allows them to request a copy of crime data and records.

Individuals should note that certain checks, like a "Police Certificate" or a "Statement of Good Conduct," necessitate mail-in requests with appropriate forms and a letter for a certified background check, as online options may not be available for these specific checks.

Find Criminal Records Online in Wisconsin

Inquirers may find criminal records online in Wisconsin through the Wisconsin Online Record Check System (WORCS), the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA), and the official websites of local law enforcement agencies.

Free Criminal Record Search in Wisconsin

There are a few options for conducting a free criminal record search in Wisconsin. One is the Wisconsin Online Record Check System (WORCS), which allows individuals to create a user account or check out as a guest to perform a name-based search of the state's criminal history database. WORCS also assigns a unique personal identification number (WiUPIN) to individuals who have successfully challenged a criminal record in the database, so the record will not be included in a public response. Another option is the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) page, which the Director of State Courts Office maintains.

What Does it Mean if You Have a Criminal Record in Wisconsin?

A criminal record in Wisconsin can have significant and lasting consequences affecting various aspects of a person's life. One of the critical areas impacted is employment. Many employers conduct background checks; some even ask applicants about their criminal history. While the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act (WFEA) prohibits discrimination based on arrest or conviction records, this protection applies only if the circumstances of the crime do not substantially relate to the job or licensed activity. It's important to note that certain professions, such as those in healthcare, engineering, and cosmetology, may impose mandatory restrictions for individuals with a criminal record.

In addition to employment challenges, a criminal record can result in the loss of specific civil rights. Felony convictions, in particular, can lead to the forfeiture of rights such as voting, serving on a jury, and possessing a firearm. While a pardon can potentially restore these rights, it does not expunge the conviction from the record.

Furthermore, individuals with a history of criminal convictions may face harsher penalties if charged with a similar crime in the future. This can include increased jail time and fines, underscoring the importance of understanding the potential long-term consequences of a criminal record.

Beyond legal ramifications, having a criminal record can create barriers to education and housing. Obtaining financial aid for higher education may become challenging, and access to government assistance programs may be limited. Housing options may also be restricted, as some landlords may reject applicants with criminal records or impose higher rents and deposits.

Does Your Criminal Record Clear After 7 Years in Wisconsin?

No. A person's criminal record in Wisconsin doesn't automatically clear after seven years. However, individuals can take steps to expunge or seal their records.

To be eligible for expungement, individuals need to meet specific criteria. This includes being under 25 years old when the offense occurred, having a misdemeanor or certain low-level felonies, and successfully completing their sentence.

For record sealing eligibility, individuals must have a nonviolent offense, no other pending charges, and have satisfied the waiting period requirements. It's important to note that these processes involve specific requirements and waiting periods, and not all offenses may qualify for expungement or sealing.

Arrest Record Vs Criminal Record

Arrest and criminal records are not the same in Wisconsin. An arrest record includes details of when a person has been questioned, taken into custody, or detained by law enforcement or the military. On the other hand, a criminal record encompasses information about convictions for felonies, misdemeanors, or other offenses, along with associated sentences, fines, probation, or parole.

Having either type of record can impact a person's life differently. An arrest record might be grounds for denying or ending employment unless the employer can demonstrate that the arrest circumstances significantly relate to the job. Meanwhile, a criminal record can limit job opportunities, especially in licensed professions requiring a clean background check.

Despite these challenges, individuals in Wisconsin have options to clear or restrict access to their arrest or criminal records. For arrest records, challenging accuracy or validity can be pursued by submitting a fingerprint card and a challenge form to the Wisconsin Department of Justice. For criminal records, individuals can explore expungement or pardon options based on the nature and severity of the offense. These avenues allow individuals to address the impact of their records on various aspects of their lives.

Wisconsin Police Records

Wisconsin police records are a type of public record that detail the interactions between law enforcement and citizens or suspects. These records encompass a range of information, including police reports, arrest records, incident logs, booking details, mugshots, and warrants. Police records differ from criminal records, specifically containing details about convictions, sentences, and corrections.

In Wisconsin, police records are generally accessible to the public per the Open Records Law. This law allows individuals the right to examine and duplicate any record created or received by a government authority unless there is a specific exemption. However, certain police records may be restricted or have information redacted to safeguard individuals' privacy, safety, or reputation and maintain the integrity of ongoing investigations.