Schaefer v. Hayes

In Tarantino v. Griebel (1960), 9 Wis. (2d) 37, 42, 100 N. W. (2d) 350, we reserved for subsequent determination the question whether a conviction by a justice of the peace constitutes conclusive proof of probable cause so as to preclude a malicious prosecution action. Cf. Topolewski v. Plankinton Packing Co. (1910), 143 Wis. 52, 64, 126 N. W. 554. The absence of probable cause is an essential element in an action for malicious prosecution. Elmer v. Chicago & N. W. R. Co. (1950), 257 Wis. 228, 231, 43 N. W. (2d) 244. Four members of this court are of the opinion that at least in those…