Charged with Bail Jumping? Madison Criminal Defense Attorney can help

If you are arrested in Wisconsin, the court sets the conditions for your bail, if any, at your first appearance. This includes either a signature or cash bond that allows you to stay out of jail until your trial if you meet the conditions. You must agree not to commit any other crimes, and appear for your next hearing. Depending on the crime for which you are arrested, there may be other conditions as well. If you violate any of these conditions, you can be charged with bail jumping.

Understand Your Responsibilities

If you make bail, this is not a grant of freedom for you. Your payment of bail allows you to remain out of jail, but you must meet every condition. If you have been arrested for drunk driving, for instance, you may be required to avoid alcohol or ordered not to drive until your trial. If you are arrested for a violent crime, you will not be allowed to contact the victim. And if you were arrested with an alleged co-conspirator, you may not be allowed to have contact with that person. Whatever the conditions, you must follow them carefully to avoid additional charges.

Added Penalties to Your Sentence

Bail jumping exists as a separate crime. You may be charged in the same county as for the initial arrest, or in the county where the alleged bail jumping occurred. The crime level depends on the underlying charges; if you are arrested for a misdemeanor, you will be charged with misdemeanor bail jumping, with a potential penalty of nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine. Bail jumping on a felony charge can add up to six years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Either of these is additional to any sentence for the original crime.

If you are charged with bail jumping, you need a strong criminal defense attorney in your corner. The lawyers at Eisenberg Law Offices have experience defending these charges in Wisconsin and can help you navigate your bail requirements to avoid additional charges.