We all make mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes have a price. Criminal damage to property is one of those mistakes – and it could cost you dearly. Many people are under the mistaken impression that criminal damage to property is always a misdemeanor, but that’s not always the case. In fact, this crime is one of the most clearly outlined on Wisconsin’s law books.

If someone threatens to press charges against you or if you’re already being charged with criminal property damage, call Milwaukee lawyer Carlos A. Gamiño immediately, because the consequences might be more severe than you think.

Being Charged with Criminal Property Damage in Milwaukee

In many cases, criminal damage to property is a misdemeanor. It doesn’t take much to convict someone, either; all that has to be proven is that someone intentionally damaged property that wasn’t theirs without the consent of the owner. That’s it – so even something that seems small, such as breaking a window or ruining photos could constitute criminal property damage.

The maximum sentence you can receive for a misdemeanor criminal property damage conviction is 9 months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. But it’s not always “just” a misdemeanor.

Sometimes criminal property damage is a felony. That’s usually reserved for more serious offenses that involve vehicles, public property or high-value items. If you’re convicted of this type of felony, you could face several years in prison and extremely substantial fines.

Often, the difference between a few months in jail and a few years lies in the value of the property. You need to work with a lawyer who understands how the system works and won’t let someone get away with inflating the value of a specific piece of property; you need someone who will fight aggressively in your defense. Call Carlos Gamiño at (414)383-6700 if you’re dealing with criminal property damage in Milwaukee or Waukesha – don’t gamble with your future over someone else’s property.