Wisconsin Fake Id Charges: Consequences, Penalties and Legal Process

The use of fake identification or ID cards is a prevalent problem in Wisconsin. While many people use fake IDs with good intentions such as obtaining entrance to a bar, there are others with malicious intentions such as conducting fraudulent activities, identity theft, and embezzlement. It is, therefore, not shocking that fake ID charges are taken very seriously by law enforcement agencies in Wisconsin.

If you are facing Wisconsin fake ID charges, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the legal process, consequences, and penalties involved. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about Wisconsin fake ID charges.

What is a fake ID, and what is its significance?

A fake ID is a document that is designed to look like it is an official government-issued identification document. The most common types of fake IDs include state ID cards, driver’s licenses, and passports. Fake IDs are commonly used by people who are under the legal age limit to purchase tobacco, alcohol, or gain entry into bars, nightclubs, or casinos.

A fake ID can also be used to help criminals commit crimes such as identity theft, embezzlement, or illegal immigration. These are serious criminal offences that carry hefty penalties in Wisconsin. A fake ID can also be used by people who wish to remain anonymous while engaging in illegal activities such as scamming, selling drugs, prostitution, or gambling.

Wisconsin law on Fake ID Charges

The Wisconsin law on fake ID charges is primarily regulated under sections 125.075 of the state statutes. The law states that it is “unlawful for any person under 21 years of age to knowingly and falsely represent his or her age for the purpose of purchasing or attempting to purchase alcohol beverages.” The law also makes it an offence for a person to make, alter, or possess a fake ID with the intent to deceive.

Wisconsin law also makes it illegal for minors to use a fake ID to gain entry into a bar, night club, or casino. The law also prohibits bar owners, bartenders, or any other persons in the business of selling alcohol from knowingly selling alcohol to a minor or anyone who presents a fake ID.

Consequences of Wisconsin Fake ID Charges

Fake ID charges are taken very seriously in Wisconsin, and the consequences of being convicted of such offences can be life-changing. Here are some of the consequences of Wisconsin fake ID charges:

Criminal Record

Being convicted of fake ID charges in Wisconsin will result in a criminal record. Once convicted, the criminal record becomes a matter of public record, and this can have devastating implications on your employment prospects, education, and other aspects of your life.

License Suspension

If you are found guilty of using a fake ID to operate a vehicle in Wisconsin, your driver’s license will be suspended. This suspension can last for up to 6 months for a first offense and up to one year for subsequent offenses.

Jail Time

In addition to a criminal record and license suspension, you can also be sentenced to jail time if you are found guilty of fake ID charges in Wisconsin. The length of the sentence will depend on the severity of the offence, prior record, and the discretion of the judge.

Penalties and Fines

Penalties and fines for fake ID charges in Wisconsin vary depending on the nature of the offense. The penalty for minors found in possession of a fake ID in Wisconsin is a forfeiture of up to $ 300. If the offense is repeated, the penalty increases to a forfeiture of up to $ 500.

If you are found guilty of selling or providing a fake ID to a minor, you could face a fine of up to $ 5,000 or be sentenced to jail time for up to 9 months or both.

Legal Process for Fake ID Charges in Wisconsin

The legal process for fake ID charges in Wisconsin begins with an arrest. Once arrested, you will be taken into police custody, and your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. You will also be asked to provide a DNA sample.

After arrest, the next step is to attend a bail hearing. At the bail hearing, the judge will determine whether to release you on bail or remand you in custody until your trial. If you are released on bail, the judge will set a date for your trial.

The trial for fake ID charges in Wisconsin usually takes place in front of a judge, and a jury is not always necessary. During the trial, the prosecution will present evidence to support their case against you, and your defense attorney will have the opportunity to present evidence that will challenge the prosecution’s case.

If the prosecution proves beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the charges, the judge will issue a verdict. If found guilty, the judge will hand down a sentence, which could include jail time, probation, and fines.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fake ID charges in Wisconsin are taken seriously, and the penalties for being convicted of such charges can be severe. If you find yourself facing Wisconsin fake ID charges, it is important that you understand the legal process and the consequences and penalties involved. Having a criminal record can have a long-lasting impact on your life, and it is, therefore, important that you seek legal counsel as soon as possible to help you navigate through the legal proceedings. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Avoid possessing, using, or creating fake IDs, and you can avoid the potential consequences that come with it.