Criminal Actions
Criminal cases consist of felony, misdemeanor and criminal traffic matters. An in person appearance is required for criminal initial appearances (the first time coming before the court after being arrested).
Clerks can provide access to criminal law information and forms. Clerks cannot provide legal advice.
Who do I contact if I have questions about a Criminal Case?
Clerk of Circuit Court
220 N. Beaumont Road
Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
Phone: 608-326-0208
Please have your case number(s) available before calling.
How do I look up my case online?
The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (insert the link here?) provides access to certain public records of the Wisconsin circuit courts.
To look up your case:
enter your case number in the case number field and select Crawford County from the drop down box
OR
enter your last name, first name, and Crawford County ONLY in their respective fields
How do I apply for a public defender attorney?
Contact the Public Defender’s Office:
223 West Maple Street
Lancaster, WI 53813
(608) 401-2030
How do I obtain a Court appointed attorney?
If representation though the Public Defenders Office was denied, complete the Petition of Appointment of an Attorney, Affidavit of Indigency (GF-152A) form (located below) and have your signature witnessed by a notary. If you do not receive aid from any programs identified in Section 1, be sure to complete both pages one and two. Return the Petition of Appointment of an Attorney, Affidavit of Indigency form to the Clerk of Courts Office. Your petition will be routed to the assigned Judge for review.
If your Petition of Appointment of Counsel and Affidavit of Indigency is approved, an Order will be prepared by the Clerk of Courts. The Judicial Assistant will obtain an attorney for you and a copy of the Agreement and Order Regarding Counsel will be mailed to you. Once an attorney is assigned, you will be asked to make regular payment towards the attorney’s fee. Upon completion of your case, the attorney will present his final bill to the court. If you have paid more than the billed amount, your overpayment may be returned to you. If you still owe monies, you will be billed for the balance due. The attorney’s services are terminated upon the filing of his final bill.
Failure to comply with payment plan may result in the termination of payment plan agreement and services provided.
Please notify the Clerk of Court if your financial situation has changed.
How do I post cash bond?
If you decide to post a cash bond and it is during business hours, you may post the cash bond at the Crawford County Clerk of Court's Office.
Cash, money orders and certified cashier's checks are accepted. The Crawford County Clerk of Court Office does not accept credit or debit cards for payment of bonds at this time.
If it is before or after business hours, you may post the cash bond at the Crawford County Jail.
We hope this basic information provides some necessary & helpful guidance pertaining to criminal court matters. If unsure how to proceed please seek legal assistance.
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