Wisconsin · Wisconsin Statutes — Criminal Code (Ch. 939–951)

Wis. Stat. (Criminal Code) § 948.20: Abandonment of a child

Felony

What this law says, in plain English

Intentionally leaving a child in a place where they may suffer neglect is a Class G felony. Negligently failing to provide necessary care, food, clothing, medical care, shelter, or education—or exposing a child to drug manufacture or abuse—is also a felony, with severity depending on harm suffered.

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.