Wisconsin § 940.285 - Abuse of individuals at risk.

Full text of Wisconsin Wisconsin Statutes § 940.285 — Abuse of individuals at risk., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 940.285. Abuse of individuals at risk.

940.285(1) (1) Definitions. In this section: 940.285(1)(ag) (ag) “Abuse” means any of the following: 940.285(1)(ag)1. 1. Physical abuse, as defined in s. 46.90 (1) (fg) . 940.285(1)(ag)2. 2. Emotional abuse, as defined in s. 46.90 (1) (cm) . 940.285(1)(ag)3. 3. Sexual abuse, as defined in s. 46.90 (1) (gd) . 940.285(1)(ag)4. 4. Treatment without consent, as defined in s. 46.90 (1) (h) . 940.285(1)(ag)5. 5. Unreasonable confinement or restraint, as defined in s. 46.90 (1) (i) . 940.285(1)(ag)6. 6. Deprivation of a basic need for food, shelter, clothing, or personal or health care, including deprivation resulting from the failure to provide or arrange for a basic need by a person who has assumed responsibility for meeting the need voluntarily or by contract, agreement, or court order. 940.285(1)(am) (am) “Adult at risk” has the meaning given in s. 55.01 (1e) . 940.285(1)(dc) (dc) “Elder adult at risk” has the meaning given in s. 46.90 (1) (br) . 940.285(1)(dg) (dg) “Individual at risk” means an elder adult at risk or an adult at risk. 940.285(1)(dm) (dm) “Recklessly” means conduct that creates a situation of unreasonable risk of harm and demonstrates a conscious disregard for the safety of the vulnerable adult. 940.285(1m) (1m) Exception. Nothing in this section may be construed to mean that an individual at risk is abused solely because he or she consistently relies upon treatment by spiritual means through prayer for healing, in lieu of medical care, in accordance with his or her religious tradition. 940.285(2) (2) Abuse; penalties. 940.285(2)(a) (a) Any person, other than a person in charge of or employed in a facility under s.

Source: official Wisconsin text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin § 940.285

What does Wisconsin Statutes § 940.285 cover?

Section 940.285 ("Abuse of individuals at risk.") is part of the Wisconsin Statutes, the codified statutory law of Wisconsin. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Wisconsin § 940.285?

A common citation format is "Wisconsin Statutes § 940.285" (Wisconsin). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Wisconsin law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Wisconsin official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.

How does Wisconsin § 940.285 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Wisconsin can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Wisconsin.