Sexting and Minors – the Law in the State of Wisconsin

Child pornography, causing harm to a child, and sexual exploitation of a child laws which are on the books in the State of Wisconsin criminalize and punish teen sexting. In fact, these crimes are felony offenses, and a conviction can result in significant penalties – including jail time, monetary fines, and probation. These potential penalties are also different depending upon whether a child or an adult commits the offense.

If you are facing charges that stem from a teen sexting incident, it is important that you have knowledgeable legal counsel on your side representing you throughout your case. The experienced attorneys at Cohen Law Offices will be able to protect your legal rights while your criminal case is pending and can help you formulate a strong legal defense to your charge. Please call us today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online for more information about how we could assist you with formulating your legal defense. 

What is “Sexting”?

The term ‘sexting’ typically refers to sending sexually suggestive images or nude images through some electronic medium. This usually means that the pictures are sent by way of an online chat board, social media website (such as Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram), email, or text message. In recent years, the practice of sexting has become more common among teenage children, who in many cases are minors themselves. In addition, sexting nude or sexually suggestive images can be used as a means of harassing or bullying others.

How Does the State of Wisconsin Criminalize Sexting?

The State of Wisconsin charges and punishes teen sexting under its laws pertaining to causing harm to a child, sexual exploitation of a child, and child pornography. All of these laws prohibit possessing, distributing, or creating a visual depiction of a minor (i.e., someone who is under 18 years of age) who is engaging in conduct that is sexually explicit. ‘Sexually explicit conduct’ includes not only simulated or actual sexual intercourse but also lewd exhibition of an intimate body part and masturbation.

In order for you to be found guilty of a teen sexting charge, the prosecutor who is assigned to your case will have to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt – or beyond a doubt that is based upon ordinary common sense and reason. If the prosecutor cannot satisfy his or her legal burden, then the charge or charges against you could be dropped. However, if the prosecutor is able to meet the required burden of proof, then you could be sentenced to various criminal penalties. In a teen sexting case, the potential penalties upon conviction depend upon whether the accused individual is a child or an adult. 

Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled criminal defense attorney, please call us today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online. If you have been criminally charged under a Wisconsin sexting law, it is important that you have legal counsel at the ready to assist you throughout your criminal case.