As one might expect, being a victim of a crime--especially a violent crime--can be very challenging and confusing. There is no such thing as a victimless crime, and you may be wondering why it has happened to you. You could be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or you could be trying to recover lost property. Whatever the crime was that was committed against you, it is important to know that as a victim, you have rights, and you have options about which steps to take next. If you have been a victim of a crime, consider taking steps to gain justice and/or compensation.  

Seeking Remedies From the Courts

The aftermath of a crime can be a scary and traumatic time for a victim. Fortunately, there are actions that you can take to bring your offender to justice and protect yourself, including:

• Criminal Court: One of your options is to proceed with a criminal case by reporting the crime to a law enforcement officer who will investigate, perform an arrest, and press charges, if necessary. In criminal cases, the victim’s main role is as a witness for the prosecution. A criminal case is meant to determine the guilt or innocence of a person, and a prosecutor’s main goal is to represent the state, not the victim. In some cases, a person convicted of a crime may be required to pay restitution that addresses the financial losses they have caused to their victims.
• Civil Court: In a civil case, the main objective is not to identify the guilt or innocence of a person, but whether or not they are liable for injuries or damages caused to the victim because of the crime. If a court finds the offender liable for the victim’s damages, they are not sent to jail but are required to pay monetary compensation to the victim or their family. Civil lawsuits force the offender to be held liable to their victim rather being prosecuted for their crimes against the state.
• Orders of Protection: If you are the victims of domestic violence or stalking, you have the option of filing an order of protection, which can help keep you safe. An order of protection (commonly known as a restraining order) can prohibit a person from going anywhere you, your home, where you work, your school, or other places that you usually go. If the person violates the order of protection, they will be subject to criminal punishment.

Are You a Victim of a Crime? A Delafield Attorney for Victims’ Rights Can Help

Every crime victim has the right to seek compensation from an offender who caused them to suffer. Though it cannot change what happened, taking action against your offender can not only empower you, but it may also help you recover some damages that will address the harm done to you. If you have been a victim of a crime and would like to talk about pursuing damages, you should contact a Waukesha County victims’ rights lawyer. At the Bucher Law Group, LLC, we know that talking about the crime that happened to you can be difficult, but our compassionate attorneys will fight to protect your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve. To set up a free consultation, call our office at 262-303-4916.

When you are behind the wheel of a car, you have a duty to other people on the road, and that duty is simple: behave in a way that does not put yourself or others into danger. Unfortunately, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, around 28,790 people were arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) in 2015, and 23,931 were actually convicted. Drunk driving can be deadly, and even when it is not, it can cause a great deal of harm, which is why a DUI/OWI charge in Wisconsin is taken very seriously.

First Offense OWI

Consequences for a first-time DUI conviction in Wisconsin are mainly aimed at educating the offender and changing their habits or behaviors. There is typically no jail time, but there is a possible fine of $100 to $300, plus a $435 OWI surcharge. First-time offenders will also face a driver’s license revocation of six to nine months, and if their blood alcohol content (BAC) was over .15, an ignition interlock device or 24/7 sobriety program will be required for one year.

Second Offense OWI

If you have no prior OWIs in the past 10 years, and you never committed any bodily harm or homicide in an accident, sentencing will generally be more lenient than if you had. A second DUI offense will mean that you will face a possible fine of $100 to $300, plus a $435 OWI surcharge, along with a six to nine month license revocation, with the stipulation that you will be required to use an ignition interlock device or 24/7 sobriety program for at least one year.

If you are one of the many thousands of responsible gun owners in Wisconsin, you want to possess the information necessary to avoid any weapons violations. With its vast knowledge of concealed carry offenses and other weapons charges, the Bucher Law Group, LLC, believes in the protection of your rights as a gun owner and is here to handle your case if you are charged.

In 2011, Act 35 went into effect in Wisconsin, allowing residents to carry concealed weapons. Here is a look at how to obtain a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit and what it covers:

How to Get a CCW Permit

The Wisconsin Department of Justice states a CCW permit applicant must be at least 21 years old, not be prohibited from possessing a gun under law or as a condition of bail or release in a criminal case, and provide proof of firearms training.

Properly maintaining your car is just as important as driving defensively. Regular car maintenance reduces your risk of a severe car accident, keeping yourself and others safe. Since it can be difficult to determine which car maintenance tips to follow and which ones to ignore, we have debunked the most common car maintenance myths.

Myth 1: Look at Your Vehicle’s Sidewalls to Determine the Correct Tire Inflation Pressure

Many drivers make the mistake of looking at their vehicle’s sidewalls to determine the ideal tire inflation pressure. The truth is that their vehicle’s manufacturer may have another suggestion that is better suited for their car and that improves both fuel consumption and safety. Be sure to check your tire pressure on a monthly basis or whenever extreme temperature fluctuations occur.

Myth 2: Using Premium Fuel is Worth It

The majority of vehicles on the market are engineered to run optimally on regular 87 octane fuel.  It is a good idea to check your vehicle’s owner manual to figure out what type of fuel you should use. The Federal Trade Commision says that, unless the manufacturer indicates that higher octane is necessary for your car, there is no benefit to paying the higher prices. While you can use premium fuel without harm, know that your vehicle will not operate more efficiently. However, if your car engine is "knocking," the higher octane grade may help those problems.

As fall makes its debut, motorcycle riders excitedly anticipate the cooler weather along with the beauty of the season. For many enthusiasts, nothing compares to a long, relaxing ride through the countryside with the crisp, autumn air blowing past.  Although the conditions seem prime, the season poses potential risks for motorcyclists. These safety guidelines offer a friendly reminder for motorcyclists to help keep them and other motorists safe. These best practices are proven to can significantly reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents and injuries.

1. Be Mindful of Leaves

Falling leaves, as well as leaves on the ground, are beautiful. However, they can be dangerous or even deadly, especially when they are wet. Leaves easily cover up potholes and other potential driving hazards. Wet leaves potentially lead to traction issues, which can make it difficult for motorcyclists to maintain complete control of their bikes.

2. Dress in Layers

The practice of wearing multiple layers of clothing articles is vital for fall motorcycle riders. In the heat of summer, lighter clothing allows for a pleasant, cool breeze, yet as the temperatures drop into winter weather, the cold becomes unwelcomed. Motorcyclists should begin with a base layer of thermals, then mid-layers of daily clothing, and top it off with a warm jacket. By layering multiple thin layers rather than one thick one, riders and passengers alike can easily adjust their clothing to their comfort zone while they are out on their bikes.