Our criminal defense attorneys describe Stringray devices: The use of a cell site simulator, or Stingray, continues to crop up in headlines across the country.  Courts regularly address various concerns regarding the Stingray device, specifically when examining Fourth Amendment issues.   Should law enforcement obtain a warrant before using a Stingray?  How intrusive is the device? …

Stand Your Ground – The Law Wisconsin does not have a stand your ground law.  In states that do have stand your ground laws, the right to stand your ground generally applies outside of your home, vehicle, and business.  In those states, an individual can generally use deadly force without a duty to retreat.  This…

In a decision that affects criminal defendants throughout the country, the United States Supreme Court has ruled that an illegal stop of a person becomes acceptable if an officer discovers the driver has an outstanding warrant.  The Court further ruled that any illegal contraband discovered as a result of the arrest on the warrant is admissible…

One of the most frustrating things for clients and their families is the fact that we cannot guarantee specific results: we can’t guarantee that charges won’t be brought, a not guilty verdict, or a light sentence.  Understandably, many new clients would like some form of a guarantee before retaining a lawyer’s services.  But when it…

We are starting to see the effects of a bill signed into law back in November 2015 which created mandatory minimum sentences for certain firearms offenses, including possession of a firearm by a felon.  This post will describe the new law and explore the consequences you face if charged and convicted under the new sentencing…

A new law signed into effect by Governor Scott Walker on March 30 might soon get put to use.  The law, which essentially expands the breadth of the current bomb scares law, is titled “Terrorist Threats” and is codified in § 947.019 of the Wisconsin Statutes.  The statute states that whoever threatens to cause death…

Many potential clients who call or come in for a consultation are understandably hesitant to reveal the details of their situation.  Be assured: everything you talk about with your attorney is strictly confidential and cannot be repeated without your express authorization thanks to the attorney-client privilege. When does the Attorney-Client Privilege begin? The attorney-client privilege begins the…

The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access website, or CCAP, shows all filings in circuit courts throughout Wisconsin, including criminal, family, and small claims cases.  As it relates to a criminal case, a user can discover a wealth of data with only a few clicks, including the status of the case, the next court date, and what…

With the passing of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia last week, the Van Severen Law Office Blog takes a look back at how he influenced the Supreme Court over the course of his 30 years on the bench. Appointment and Early Days Scalia was appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1986 after then-Chief Justice Warren…

Self defense – it’s brought up in high profile cases and featured in TV shows and movies.  But what really constitutes “self defense?”  And is it really that commonly used?  This post will examine what self defense really is and the scenarios where self defense can, and cannot, be used. The Law of Self Defense…