Cowboy Country

Wyoming has strict laws that regulate hunting because wildlife is an integral part of Wyoming’s culture, heritage, and economy. Therefore, Wyoming game wardens, law enforcement officers, and prosecutors aggressively fight for harsh prison sentences, fines, and restitution.

As with any criminal offense in Wyoming, a conviction for poaching could have severe consequences. A judge could sentence a convicted poacher to jail, assess fines, and order restitution. A restitution order could be extraordinarily costly, depending on the value of the animal taken. Therefore, you must seek representation from a dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled poaching defense attorney from Wyoming to protect your rights.

Poaching Laws in Wyoming

Wyoming law requires that each person who hunts for trophy game, small game, or fish have the correct hunting or fishing license. Wyoming hunting laws set the hunting seasons and also limit the methods hunters use to harvest game. Violating the game and wildlife laws, especially when hunting without authority, is poaching.

Under Wyoming law, each hunter must have a hunting license. Additionally, each hunter must produce proof of a hunter’s safety certificate if asked for one. Furthermore, each hunter must attach the coupon to the animal before leaving the site. Coupons alert game wardens to the kill and prove the hunter lawfully harvested the animal. Similar provisions apply to fishing as well.

Punishments for Poaching

Poaching is a serious criminal offense in Wyoming. As with all crimes, the punishment for poaching depends on the severity of the crime and the individual’s criminal history.

According to Wyoming hunting laws, killing a gray wolf without authority, big game, or a trophy animal without a license or during a closed season is a high misdemeanor. Officials can bring one charge for every animal taken. The penalty for a high misdemeanor under Wyoming hunting laws is a maximum of one year in jail and a fine of no more than $10,000.

Poaching of other animals may also be a low misdemeanor. The penalty in Wyoming for a low misdemeanor poaching conviction is a maximum of six months in jail and a fine of no more than $1,000.

Certain animals receive greater protection from Wyoming’s poaching law. The following game animals receive greater protection from poaching in Wyoming:

• Grizzly bear,
• Black bear,
• Mountain lion,
• Mountain goat,
• Horned antelope,
• Bighorn sheep,
• Antlered moose,
• Antlered deer, and
• Antlered elk.

The crime remains a misdemeanor; however, the poaching fines range between $5,000 and $10,000. The offender may receive up to one year in jail. Additionally, the sentencing judge may order the offender to pay restitution for each animal killed.

Felony Poaching

Poaching is a felony in Wyoming in limited circumstances. Three poaching convictions for killing any of the animals listed above within 10 years is a felony. The maximum sentence for felony poaching is two years in prison and a fine between $5,000 and $10,000.

Wanton destruction of a big game animal is also a serious poaching offense. The punishment for poaching under this law is one year in jail and up to $10,000 in fines. However, the crime becomes felony poaching if the person received two convictions in the previous ten years.

Help with Your Wyoming Poaching Charges

Facing poaching charges without a formidable criminal defense lawyer representing you could be dangerous. A poaching conviction means that the state will suspend your license to hunt. Convictions, even for misdemeanors, have collateral consequences that no one realizes until it’s too late. Any conviction could hurt your chances of getting a job, holding a professional license, obtaining a higher education, and finding housing.

In addition to having a conviction on your record, you will have to pay restitution. The court will order payment of restitution for each animal poached. The restitution costs alone could reach well into the thousands, which you will have to pay even if you went to jail.

If you face poaching charges, contact Wyoming poaching defense attorney Jeremy Hugus and his team with Cowboy Criminal Defense today at 307-333-7884 to learn how he could help you.

Being accused of child abuse is a serious allegation and can have significant consequences. However, not all child abuse allegations are true.

Defending yourself against a child abuse allegation is difficult, and a false allegation can affect your life and reputation.

If someone falsely accuses you of child abuse in Wyoming, contact the team at Cowboy Country Criminal Defense to discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

WHAT IS CONSIDERED CHILD ABUSE IN WYOMING?

In general, child abuse is physical, emotional, or sexual abuse of a minor.

In Wyoming, the definition for child abuse is “inflicting or causing physical or mental injury, harm or imminent danger to the physical or mental health or welfare of a child other than by accidental means.”

Child abuse in Wyoming also includes malnutrition, sexual offenses against a child, and excessive or unreasonable corporal punishment (WY Stat § 14-3-202(a)(ii)).

It is important to note though that there is an exception for reasonable corporal punishment.

AGGRAVATED CHILD ABUSE DEFINITION

A child abuse conviction on its own can potentially result in some jail time, but the penalty for an aggravated child abuse conviction is even greater.

Wyoming defines aggravated child abuse as intentionally or recklessly inflicting serious bodily injury upon a child (WY Stat § 6-2-503).

CHILD ABUSE CHARGES IN WYOMING

Any person can be charged with child abuse in the State of Wyoming. If the person charged with child abuse is not responsible for a child’s welfare, they may be convicted only if the victim is under the age of sixteen.

On the other hand, if the person charged is responsible for a child’s welfare, they can be convicted for child abuse against anyone up to the age of eighteen.

This is an important distinction. An adult “responsible for a child’s welfare” can include any of the following:

• Custodial parent,
• Noncustodial parent,
• Guardian,
• Custodian,
• Stepparent, or
• Foster parent.

Even if you are not in one of the specific categories defined above, any other person, institution, or agency that has physical custody or control of a child can be considered responsible for the child’s welfare.

PENALTIES FOR CHILD ABUSE IN WYOMING

Wyoming takes child abuse allegations extremely seriously. As such, penalties for child abuse convictions can be severe.

CAN I GET JAIL TIME FOR CHILD ABUSE?

One major concern you may have about child abuse allegations is whether you could go to jail.

If you are convicted of child abuse, you could ultimately go to jail, but the level of punishment varies based on the specific facts of each case.

PENALTIES FOR CHILD ABUSE

In Wyoming, a child abuse conviction is classified as a felony. This can result in punishment of up to five years in prison.

Penalties for aggravated child abuse can be much more severe.

Aggravated child abuse, as discussed above, occurs when a person intentionally or recklessly inflicts serious bodily injury upon a victim.

An aggravated child abuse conviction is also a felony. However, instead of five years, punishment can include imprisonment for up to twenty-five years.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE ACCUSED OF CHILD ABUSE

If someone has accused you of child abuse in Wyoming, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. Having a lawyer in your corner can be the difference between a conviction and a successful defense.

Jeremy Hugus and the Cowboy Country Criminal Defense team are ready to advocate for you.

A child abuse allegation is difficult to navigate, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Contact Cowboy Country Criminal Defense today to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney and make sure you have a strong defense.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a term that is used to describe many different types of abusive behavior within a household. Although most people associate domestic violence with physical abuse, it can also include sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and economic abuse.

Physical abuse is the most easily recognizable form of domestic violence. It includes any type of physical harm inflicted on a person, such as hitting, kicking, or using a weapon. Sexual abuse is another form of domestic violence. It can involve anything from forced sex to unwanted touching or sexual harassment. Emotional abuse is a less obvious form of domestic violence. It can involve anything from name-calling and put-downs to controlling behavior and constant criticism. Economic abuse is another form of domestic violence. It occurs when one person in a relationship controls all the money and makes all the financial decisions. This can leave the other person without any way to support themselves or their children.

Can a Domestic Violence Allegation Hurt Me?

Yes, a domestic violence allegation can definitely hurt you. It can damage your reputation and make it difficult to find employment or housing. It can also lead to criminal charges and jail time. If you are convicted of domestic violence, you will likely have to pay a fine and may be ordered to attend anger management classes or other rehabilitative programs. You may also be required to wear a GPS ankle bracelet or stay away from the victim.

If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is important to seek legal help right away. The attorneys at Cowboy Country Criminal Defense are experienced in handling these cases and can help you get the best possible outcome for your situation.

What are the Social Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge?

The social consequences of a domestic violence charge can be significant. Many people will see you as a criminal and may be unwilling to associate with you. You may also have difficulty finding housing or employment. If you are convicted of domestic violence, you will likely have a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life. It is important to remember that domestic violence is a serious crime and should not be taken lightly. If you are accused of domestic violence, seek legal help right away.

Why Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Attorney?

If you’re accused of domestic violence, you should contact a domestic violence lawyer. A proficient lawyer can assist you in comprehending the charges against you and the best ways to proceed with your case. They may also appear in court on your behalf and work toward obtaining the greatest possible outcome for your issue.

If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is important to seek legal help right away. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.

What is a Chain of Custody?

A chain of custody is a document or record that shows the chronological history of evidence from the time it was collected to the time it was presented in court. In order to maintain the integrity of the evidence, it is important that each link in the chain be documented and verified. This includes documenting who collected the evidence, who packaged it, who transported it, and who reviewed and approved it.

When you’re dealing with evidence, it’s important to be able to track its history and movement from the time it’s discovered until the time it’s used in a trial. There are a few things you need to do to establish a chain of custody:

-Establish who has custody of the evidence at all times. This means keeping track of who has the evidence, where it’s kept, and who has access to it.

-Document each transfer of custody. Make sure to include the date, time, and reason for the transfer.

-Maintain secure storage conditions. Keep the evidence in a locked room or container, and restrict access to it.

-Keep accurate records. In addition to documenting each transfer of custody, you’ll also want to keep track of any tests or examinations that are conducted on the evidence.

Why is Chain of Custody Important?

The chain of custody is important because it helps to establish the authenticity and integrity of the evidence. If any link in the chain is broken, it could call into question the validity of the evidence. This is why it’s important to take care in maintaining the chain of custody from start to finish. By establishing a chain of custody, you can help to ensure that the evidence has not been tampered with or corrupted in any way.

How Can Having a Criminal Defense Lawyer Be Beneficial?

If you have been charged with a crime, it is important to understand the role that a criminal defense lawyer can play in your case. Criminal defense lawyers are responsible for representing their clients who have been accused of committing a crime. They work to ensure that their client’s constitutional rights are protected and that they receive a fair trial. In some cases, they may also be able to negotiate a plea bargain on their client’s behalf.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Increase My Chances of Success?

A criminal defense attorney is the first and most important line of defense against criminal charges brought against an individual. A good attorney can often mean the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.

If you’ve been arrested, the first thing your defense attorney will do is contact the prosecutor and try to get the charges reduced or dropped. If that’s not possible, your defense attorney will start preparing for trial. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and crafting a defense strategy.

No matter what stage of the criminal justice process you’re in, a good defense attorney can make a difference. So if you’re looking for an advocate and a friend, call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.

Disagreements and arguments happen all the time. But if they become too heated or get out of control, one or more people may be charged with a crime, including simple assault.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, the information below will provide you with important knowledge, so you can better protect your legal interests.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about simple assault in Wyoming, you should contact a Wyoming criminal defense attorney today.

Working with a criminal defense attorney is your best shot at reducing the chances that you go to jail for your simple assault charge.

WHAT IS A SIMPLE ASSAULT CHARGE IN WYOMING?

Simple assaults can occur in a variety of circumstances but often arise during a disagreement or argument. Definitions of simple assault differ from state to state.

Wyoming’s law classifies assault as a misdemeanor and punishes simple assault convictions with monetary fines.

Under the statute, a simple assault occurs where a person attempts to harm another person or cause bodily injury unlawfully.

A simple assault charge does not require actual bodily injury. You can be charged just for attempting to do so.

PENALTIES FOR SIMPLE ASSAULT 

Penalties for simple assault charges do not include any jail time. But if convicted, you will still face consequences that can have a significant impact on your life.

Legal penalties for simple assault include:

• Monetary penalties up to $750 per charge;
• A misdemeanor charge that will appear on your criminal record;
• Court dates and associated fees and costs; and
• Problems with employment, child custody disputes, and other issues associated with having a criminal record.

UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT TYPES OF ASSAULT-RELATED CHARGES

Understanding different types of assault-related offenses can be complicated and confusing, but important to know if you face criminal charges.

Below are brief descriptions of different types of assault-related charges and their associated penalties.

Assault Versus Battery 

Assault and battery come up in numerous different contexts in news, social media, and popular entertainment. Many sources describe these terms as the same offense, but they are separate crimes and have some crucial differences.

• A simple assault crime in Wyoming only requires proving that someone attempted to cause bodily injury to another person
• A crime of battery requires showing that a person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly caused another person bodily harm through physical force.

Battery involves proving an actual injury, and a person charged with battery faces harsher legal consequences. Penalties for battery can include fines of up to $750 as well as up to six months in jail.

Unlawful Contact

Wyoming law includes another type of offense that falls between a charge for assault or battery.

Unlawful contact occurs where a person intentionally touches another person in an angry, rude, or impolite way but does not cause bodily injury. A person convicted of unlawful contact faces up to six months in jail, fines up to $750, or both.

Assault on a Household Member

Wyoming’s law also distinguishes between simple assault and domestic assault, or assault by one household member against another.

First-time domestic assault offenders face the same penalties as those for simple assault.

However, if a person convicted of domestic assault committed another assault-related crime or a previous domestic assault, that person may face jail time in addition to a fine.

DO I NEED A WYOMING ASSAULT LAWYER?

If you are charged with simple assault, remember that a criminal charge does not equal a conviction. A prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt each element, or part, of a criminal offense.

Experienced Wyoming assault attorneys know and understand the elements of criminal assault and will investigate the facts of your case to develop a strong defense to protect your rights.

Some defenses to simple assault include:

• Even if you did attempt to cause someone bodily injury, if you did it to protect yourself or someone else from harm, you may be able to claim self-defense;
• You could argue that you were aggressive because you were defending your property;
• You may be able to claim consent as a defense if you can prove that the other person consented, or agreed to, the attempted bodily harm; or
• Showing that you lacked the ability to cause bodily harm.

Any of the defenses above or combinations of the defenses could make up your legal strategy.

HOW A CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY DEFENDS YOU FROM A SIMPLE ASSAULT CHARGE

Creating a successful legal defense can be a complicated process. Presenting a legal claim requires knowing and following extensive court procedures, rules, and methods for gathering and presenting evidence, writing court documents, and bringing a case to trial.

Skilled criminal law lawyers spend years practicing and developing these skills, so they can best serve and protect their clients’ interests.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you:

• Gather evidence, including investigations, police reports, witness testimonies, and other information necessary to build your defense
• File motions with the court
• Negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf
• Defend you and represent you if your case goes to trial

CONTACT A WYOMING CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER TODAY

If you or someone you know is charged with simple assault, you may not know what to do next.

We understand this can be a stressful and challenging time, and our highly experienced Wyoming assault attorneys and staff will support you through the process.

Our criminal defense attorney Jeremy Hugus has extensive experience defending his clients’ rights against criminal defense charges. He has a proven track record of success and fights relentlessly on behalf of his clients.

Reach out to the team at Cowboy Country Criminal Defense by filling out an online form or calling 307-333-7884 today. Our qualified team will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in any intimate relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over the other person. It can include physical, sexual, emotional, economic, and psychological abuse.

Physical abuse is when you hurt someone physically. For example, you may hit them, kick them, or pull their hair. Sexual abuse is when you force someone to do something sexual that they don’t want to do. Emotional abuse is when you say mean things to someone or emotionally demean them. Economic abuse is when you try to control how someone spends their money.

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, domestic violence is a felony if it results in serious bodily injury. Serious bodily injury means that the person has a substantial risk of death, or the injuries caused are so severe that they are likely to result in permanent disfigurement, protracted impairment of health, or death.

If you’re convicted of domestic violence as a felony, you could face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. First-time offenders may be eligible for a deferred sentence, which means that you would not have to serve time in prison as long as you complete a treatment program and comply with other conditions.

However, many defenses may be available to you. It’s important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side who can help you fight these charges.

What Penalties Can I Receive for a Conviction?

If you’re convicted of domestic violence as a misdemeanor, you could face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine based on what kind of assault you are charged with. First-time offenders may be offered a deferred sentence, which means that they will not have to go to jail as long as they complete a rehabilitation program and follow other obligations. If you have multiple convictions for domestic violence, you could face up to six years in prison and a $6,000 fine.

It’s important to remember that the penalties for domestic violence convictions can vary depending on the facts of your case. That is why having the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can assist you in understanding and fighting for the greatest possible outcome in your case is so crucial.

Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Attorney?

Being charged with domestic violence can be a scary and confusing experience. You may be wondering if you need to hire a domestic violence attorney. The answer to that question depends on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the charges against you, your relationship with the accuser, and whether you have prior convictions for domestic violence.

If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can advise you of your rights and help you build a defense. If you have been convicted of domestic violence in the past, it is especially important to seek legal counsel. A skilled domestic violence attorney can work to get your conviction expunged or reduced. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.

What is Sexual Battery?

Sexual battery is a sexual offense that involves non-consensual touching of the intimate parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, sexual arousal, or sexual abuse. In Wyoming, it is punishable by a maximum of 1 year in prison, and/or a maximum fine of $1,000.

What is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is a sexual offense that involves non-consensual contact with the genitals, anus, or mouth of another person. It can also include non-consensual penetration with any object. In Wyoming, it can go up to a fourth-degree crime, and it is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.

What is Rape?

Rape is a sexual offense that involves non-consensual intercourse with another person. In Wyoming, it is punishable by up to 50 years in prison, depending on if it is considered statutory or not.

While sexual battery, sexual assault, and rape all involve unwanted contact with someone else’s intimate parts, there are some key differences between these crimes. Rape is the most serious of these offenses and is defined as non-consensual sexual intercourse.

How Can a Sex Crimes Lawyer Help?

There are three primary ways in which a sex crimes lawyer can help those who have been accused of rape, sexual assault, or sexual battery. First, a lawyer can work to prove that the accuser is lying. Second, a lawyer can work to prove that the defendant did not have the required mental state for the crime. Third, a lawyer can work to prove that the defendant’s actions were not forcible or against the will of the victim.

One of the most common defenses against rape, sexual assault, and sexual battery charges is that the accuser is lying. In many cases, there is no physical evidence of the crime, so the case comes down to one person’s word against another. A skilled sex crimes lawyer will know how to cross-examine the accuser and look for inconsistencies in their story.

Another common defense is that the defendant did not have the required mental state for the crime. For example, if the defendant can show that they reasonably believed that the other person consented to sexual activity, then they may be able to avoid a conviction.

Finally, a sex crimes lawyer can also work to prove that the defendant’s actions were not forcible or against the victim’s will. In some cases, the alleged victim may have consented to sexual activity but later claimed that they were raped or sexually assaulted. A lawyer can help to show that the victim’s consent was genuine and that the defendant did not use force or coercion.

If you have been accused of rape, sexual assault, or sexual battery, it is important to speak to a skilled sex crimes lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and develop a strong defense. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.

What is Assault?

An assault is an unlawful attempt to inflict bodily harm on someone. It is a crime in all 50 states. A person can be convicted of assault even if they don’t injure the other person. There are different types of assault, depending on the circumstances.

Simple assault is the most common type. It’s defined as an intentional act that causes someone to fear for their safety. For example, if you threaten someone with violence or touch them in a way that makes them afraid, you may be charged with simple assault.

Assault with a deadly weapon is more serious than simple assault. It’s defined as using a weapon or anything else that can be used to inflict harm to commit assault. For example, if you threaten someone with a knife or a gun, you may be charged with assault with a deadly weapon.

Aggravated assault is the most serious type of assault. It’s defined as an assault that causes serious bodily injury to another person. For example, if you attack someone with the intent to kill them, you may be charged with aggravated assault.

What is Battery?

Battery is the act of intentionally harming someone else. It’s a crime in all 50 states. There are different types of battery, depending on the circumstances.

Simple battery is the most common type. It’s defined as physically touching someone in a harmful or offensive way without their consent. For example, if you hit someone or push them, you may be charged with simple battery.

Battery with a deadly weapon is more serious than simple battery. It’s defined as using a weapon or anything else that can be used to inflict harm to commit battery. For example, if you hit someone with a knife or a gun, you may be charged with battery with a deadly weapon.

Aggravated battery is the most serious type of battery and is often classified as a felony. It’s defined as battery that causes serious bodily injury to another person. For example, if you stab someone or shoot them, you may be charged with aggravated battery.

Is Assault and Battery a Felony in Wyoming?

Generally speaking, assault and battery are misdemeanors in Wyoming. However, there are a few exceptions. Assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault are both felony offenses in Wyoming. Battery with a deadly weapon is also a felony offense, as is aggravated battery. If you are convicted of any of these offenses, you could face significant prison time and other penalties.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Defend My Case?

Battery or assault is a felony offense that might result in more serious charges. If you’re being charged with assault or battery, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. They may be able to assist you by reviewing the facts of your case and developing a strong defense for you. They may be able to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed entirely.

If you have been arrested for assault or battery, don’t wait to contact a criminal defense attorney. Time is of the essence in these types of cases, so don’t delay. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.

What Is Pleading The Fifth?

Pleading the fifth is a term often used in the United States to refer to the right to remain silent when questioned in a criminal trial. The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects citizens from self-incrimination. This means that you cannot be forced to testify against yourself in a criminal trial.

If you choose to plead the fifth, you can refuse to answer any questions from the prosecution. This can be helpful if you are worried that you might say something that could incriminate yourself. However, it is important to note that you can still be convicted of a crime even if you plead the fifth. If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to speak with an attorney who can help you decide whether or not to plead the fifth in a certain circumstance.

When Should I Plead the Fifth?

When you should plead the fifth depends on the specific facts of your case. However, there are a few general situations when it might be a good idea to plead the fifth.

First, if you are worried that you might say something that could incriminate yourself, it is a good idea to plead the fifth. Second, if you are facing multiple criminal charges, it might be a good idea to plead the fifth on some of those charges. This can help protect you from self-incrimination. Finally, if you have been arrested and have not yet been charged with a crime, you may want to plead the fifth. This can help prevent the police from questioning you about potential crimes.

Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Build a Strong Case for Me?

If you’ve been charged with a crime, you should talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can assist you in investigating the facts of your case and building a solid defense for you. If you are facing serious charges, you might want to consider pleading guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence. However, this decision should be made with the help of an experienced attorney who can help you understand all of your options.

Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney As Soon As Possible?

Yes. If you have been charged with a crime, or think you might be charged with a crime, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. An attorney may assist you in understanding the charges against you and building an effective defense.

When it comes to criminal charges, there is a lot at stake. That is why having the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical to your success. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.  We will review your case and help you decide what steps to take next.

If you are attending a bond hearing, it is essential that you have an experienced Wyoming criminal defense lawyer on your side.

What is a bond hearing? you may ask. This is the proceeding to decide whether you will be able to remain free while your criminal case is pending.

The Wyoming Constitution guarantees the right to bail in all but capital cases. Therefore, people frequently assume they will quickly go free while they await charges. However, this is a mistake. You need to work to make sure the court sets the lowest possible bond. Don’t underestimate the importance of what happens at a bond hearing. Be prepared by hiring a strong Wyoming criminal defense firm.

WHAT IS A BOND HEARING? 

In most cases, a bond hearing is a process for the court to address what happens to a person while awaiting trial. So let’s look at what happens at a bond hearing.

If you are the accused, you will have an opportunity to convince the court that you are not a danger to society and that the court can trust you to return to court for your hearing. It is not as dramatic as the trials you see on TV. However, it is equally important in many ways as you are hoping that a judge will set a reasonable bail so that you can leave freely as you prepare for trial.

It is true that Article 1, Section 14 of the Wyoming Constitution requires that courts not apply excessive bail. But the judge determines what that means based on your case and how you present yourself at the hearing. The judge may allow you to make a statement and present witnesses.

Why would you need witnesses at a bond hearing? Because it helps to have another vouch for you. The hearing is an opportunity for others to show that you have ties in the community and a job you need to attend to, for instance.

Mainly you need to prove to the judge that if they allow you out on bond, you will not run off and are worthy of the lowest bond possible. It is the job of a strategic, pragmatic, and focused criminal defense lawyer to help you with this process.

WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A WY ATTORNEY FOR A BOND HEARING

You likely would not dare attend any other criminal hearing without a defense attorney. After all, criminal proceedings are serious business. You are dealing with judges, lawyers, court staff, and more. By that same line of thought, a bond hearing is also a court proceeding.

Even if you are feeling confident that you can handle it on your own, you should think twice about doing so. It takes proper legal training to understand the process of:

• Presenting information to a court,
• Questioning witnesses,
• Knowing how to combat prosecutors, and
• Handling tough questions from judges.

A Wyoming criminal defense lawyer with a background in representing clients in these matters is your best resource in dealing with bond hearings in Wyoming.

Without legal training, it is very difficult for an accused person to handle all that goes on in a bond hearing. Even lawyers in other legal specialties contact an experienced defense lawyer to come to represent them or their clients in bond hearings.

COWBOY COUNTRY CRIMINAL DEFENSE: PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS, EXPLAINING YOUR OPTIONS

Cowboy Country Criminal Defense is owned by Attorney Jeremy Hugus. We represent people in all types of criminal cases in Casper and throughout Wyoming. Contact our firm for any criminal defense needs. We can protect your future and help you take back the reins.