If you’re facing a gun charge or are at risk of losing your gun rights in Wisconsin, your story and your future deserve to be heard and fiercely protected.

Led by founding attorney Aaron A. Nelson, a member of the U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA), our team has extensive experience defending all gun charges and crime-related Second Amendment rights issues across the state. We’ve secured not-guilty verdicts, reduced charges, and full dismissals. We’ve secured gun rights for those facing criminal charges. We know what’s at risk, and we’re here to defend you. 

We defend against all types of gun charges in Wisconsin

Being accused of a gun crime can carry lifelong consequences. These charges can alter your future and your freedoms forever. You don't have to face them alone.

Our team of defense attorneys has successfully represented clients in both misdemeanor and felony cases across Wisconsin. We build your defense with care, strategy, and a relentless commitment to telling your side of the story.

We defend clients against all types of weapons charges, including:

• Possession of a firearm by a felon
• Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit
• Intoxicated use of a weapon
• Negligent operation of a weapon
• Injury and homicide involving weapons
  
  

If you have been served with a restraining order, are facing mental health commitment, or have felony or domestic violence-related charges, your ability to possess a firearm may be affected. In any case, you need an attorney to protect you and your Second Amendment rights. If you’ve been charged with gun crime or have other charges threatening your gun rights, contact us immediately. The earlier we get involved in your case, the better we can build your defense.

We know Wisconsin gun laws—
and we know how to fight for fou

Gun laws in Wisconsin are complex, and understanding them takes more than legal knowledge—it takes experience. At Nelson Defense Group, our defense attorneys focus exclusively on Wisconsin law. We know the courts, we know the prosecutors, and we know how to build a defense that works here. We are experienced in arguing Castle Doctrine and self-defense for our clients. We are successful because we get to know you, your story, and your perspective. This is where it matters the most. 

Before you speak to law enforcement, prosecutors, or even friends—speak to us. Your words matter, and so does your defense. When the system moves to silence you, we step in to ensure your voice is heard and your story is told.

What is the Law Regarding Carrying a Concealed Gun In Wisconsin?

Generally, in Wisconsin, it is legal to “open carry” a gun or firearm, meaning it must be visible at all times, and illegal to conceal a gun or firearm on your person or in your vehicle if you do not have a valid concealed carry permit.

Your gun or firearm is generally considered to be concealed if it is not visible to others around you. For example, the gun may be concealed if it is inside a backpack, a purse, or the center console or glove box of your vehicle. A prosecutor may also claim that your gun is concealed if the bottom of your shirt covers the weapon, or if the gun is on the passenger seat of your car or elsewhere in the vehicle and out of plain sight. Also, if you are transporting a handgun, the law requires that the gun be encased and not simply placed on a seat or in the glove box. Our team can investigate your specific case and determine an appropriate strategy for defending you against the charge.

Is It Illegal To Carry A Concealed Gun In A Bar In Wisconsin?

In most cases, it is illegal to carry a concealed gun in a bar in Wisconsin, particularly if you consume even a sip of alcohol. You might even have a concealed carry permit, but you are not allowed to drink alcohol and carry a concealed weapon in a bar at the same time. Wisconsin law also prohibits people from carrying a concealed gun in a bar if the bar displays signage that says weapons are prohibited. However, there are exceptions for military members, corrections officers, and bar owners or employees if the owner or employee has proper licensing.

Whatever the facts of your case may be, if you have been charged with intoxicated firearm possession, you should consult with us before talking to anyone else about your case. We can help you explore your defense options.

How Long Does A Gun Charge Remain On A Person’s Record?

There are important differences between an arrest, charge, and conviction for a gun crime. If you are ultimately convicted, the record of that conviction will most likely be permanent. Arrests and charges also can remain on your record, but there are different types of records, different times that information stays available, and also different restrictions on who can see what type of records. It is always in your best interest to do everything available to preserve your record as much as possible, and the attorneys at Nelson Defense Group can help. We will also discuss with you what effect a gun crime conviction could have on other aspects of your life. We know that gun ownership has deep roots and traditions in the lives of many clients, and we want to understand what is most important to you when resolving your case.

What Are The Penalties For Possession Of A Firearm By A Felon?

The penalties for possession of a firearm by a felon can be steep and will depend on the individual facts of the case, but in general, a conviction carries a maximum of 10 years in prison and/or a fine of $25,000. A skilled attorney will examine your record carefully as well as all of the circumstances surrounding any allegations of possession and work with you to develop the best defense possible.