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Negligent Homicide In Wisconsin

Charged with Negligent Homicide in Wisconsin? Contact a Madison Law Firm

Homicide is generally an intentional crime. But negligent homicide can be charged under Wisconsin statutes 940.07 through 940.10, even if you do not intend to end someone’s life. Your general duty of care to others applies here, and if you fail to meet that duty, you face felony charges if it results in someone’s death.

Our Madison Law firm can evaluate your case and guide you through the proceedings.

Negligent Control of a Vicious Animal

Under Wisconsin Statute 940.07, if you own a vicious animal, you are deemed negligent if you let the animal roam free or do not keep it safely confined. If the animal gets loose and kills someone, you face Class G felony charges. Under Wisconsin Statute 939.50, this subjects you to a fine of up to $25,000, and a prison sentence up to 10 years.

Negligent Handling of a Dangerous Weapon, Explosives, or Fire

Under Wisconsin Statute 940.08, if you negligently handle a weapon or cause a fire and kill someone as a result, you can be charged with a Class G felony. In addition, you can be charged for a Class G felony if you kill someone’s unborn baby due to your negligent act.

Negligent Operation of Vehicle

A homicide due to negligent operation of a vehicle is covered under Wisconsin Statute 940.10, again a Class G felony charge. If you kill another person or an unborn child because of your negligent driving, you face a $25,000 fine and a prison sentence up to 10 years.

Intoxicated Use of a Vehicle or Firearm

Wisconsin places negligent homicide due to intoxication in a separate category from other negligent homicide charges. If you kill someone while driving or using a firearm, you are guilty of a Class D felony–or a Class C felony if it is not your first offense. Either will subject you to a fine up to $100,000, and a prison sentence up to 25 years for the first offense, or 40 years if you are a repeat offender.

Negligent homicide charges significantly impact your life. If you have been charged, Eisenberg Law Offices is the Madison law firm with the expertise to defend and help you.