How can I get a copy of a criminal complaint in Wisconsin?

You can obtain a copy of a criminal complaint in Wisconsin primarily through the Clerk of Courts office in the county where the case was filed or by accessing public records online.

Understanding Criminal Complaints in Wisconsin

A criminal complaint is the initial document filed by a prosecutor or law enforcement agency in Wisconsin that formally charges an individual with a crime. It outlines the specific charges and often includes an affidavit detailing the facts and probable cause supporting those charges. This document is a crucial part of the public record for a criminal case, though some parts may be confidential.

Methods to Obtain a Copy

There are two primary ways to access a copy of a criminal complaint in Wisconsin, leveraging both online and in-person resources:

1. Online Access (Wisconsin Circuit Court Access - CCAP)

The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) program, commonly known as CCAP, is the Director of State Courts' public internet website where you can view certain non-confidential portions of circuit court records online. This is often the quickest and most convenient way to find a criminal complaint if you only need to view it or print an unofficial copy.

• How to Use CCAP:

  1. Visit the official Wisconsin Circuit Court Access Program (CCAP) website.
  2. Use the search functions, which typically allow you to search by:
     • Party Name: Enter the defendant's full name.
     • Case Number: If you know the specific case number (e.g., 2023CF12345).
     • County: Select the county where the case was filed.
  3. Once you locate the case, you can usually view the docket, which lists all documents filed. The criminal complaint, if not sealed or confidential, will be listed and often available for direct viewing or download.

• Benefits of Online Access:

  • Convenience: Accessible 24/7 from anywhere with internet access.
  • Cost-Effective: Free to view and print unofficial copies.
  • Efficiency: Quick search results can help you find information rapidly.

2. In-Person at the Clerk of Courts Office

For access to all non-confidential portions of a circuit court record, including criminal complaints, or to obtain certified copies, visiting the Clerk of Courts office in person is the most comprehensive method. This is particularly useful if the document isn't fully available online or if you need an official, certified copy for legal purposes.

• Steps for In-Person Access:

  1. Identify the Correct County: Criminal complaints are filed in the circuit court of the county where the alleged crime occurred or where the charges were brought. Ensure you go to the correct county's Clerk of Courts office.
  2. Visit During Business Hours: Most Clerk of Courts offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. It's advisable to check their specific hours online or by phone before visiting.
  3. Provide Case Information: Be prepared to provide as much information as possible, such as:
     • The full name of the defendant.
     • The approximate date the charges were filed.
     • The case number (if known).
  4. Request to View/Copy: Inform the clerk that you wish to view or obtain a copy of a specific criminal complaint. They will guide you to public access terminals or retrieve the physical file for you to review.
  5. Copy Fees: Be aware that there may be a per-page fee for copies. Certified copies typically have a higher fee.

• Benefits of In-Person Access:

  • Comprehensive Access: You can view all non-confidential documents within the case file.
  • Certified Copies: Only available in person (or by mail request) for official use.
  • Assistance: Clerk staff can assist with navigating records and answering questions.

3. By Mail or Email Request (Limited Availability)

Some Clerk of Courts offices may accept requests for copies by mail or email, especially for certified copies. However, this varies by county and often requires pre-payment of fees. It's best to contact the specific county's Clerk of Courts office directly to inquire about their procedures for remote requests.

Important Considerations

• Confidentiality: While much of a criminal complaint is public record, certain sensitive information (e.g., victim contact details, information about minors, certain evidentiary details) may be redacted or sealed.
• Fees: Be prepared for potential copy fees, especially for certified copies. These fees vary by county and the number of pages.
• Information Accuracy: While CCAP is generally up-to-date, it's always best to verify crucial information with the Clerk of Courts directly, especially for legal matters.
• Certified vs. Uncertified Copies:
  • An uncertified copy is simply a reproduction of the document, suitable for personal information or general research. These can often be printed from CCAP.
  • A certified copy bears a stamp or seal from the Clerk of Courts, verifying its authenticity. These are usually required for legal proceedings, employment background checks, or other official uses.

By utilizing these methods, you can effectively obtain a copy of a criminal complaint in Wisconsin.