Jeremy Hugus

Driving under the influence is a very serious offense in Wyoming and can have substantial penalties.

Even though this is still a frontier, the state has cracked down on drunk driving, so anyone picked up after drinking can expect to face some stiff penalties.

Wyoming DUI laws also apply to those who drive a vehicle while under the influence of drugs.

Wyoming DUI laws can have long-lasting consequences. Hiring a Casper DUI defense attorney to advocate for you can be beneficial to the success of your case.

If you have been arrested, you should be aware of the punishments and penalties of a DUI in Wyoming.

A DUI can stay on your driving record for 10 years, and the penalties will continue to increase if you are picked up for a second or third DUI.

Reach out to an experienced Wyoming DUI attorney as soon as possible to begin building your defense.

WYOMING DUI/DWI LAWS

The Wyoming DUI law can be found at WY Stat. § 31-5-233.

Wyoming law defines DUI as driving or having “actual physical control” of a vehicle when:

• The driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher; or
• The driver is incapable of operating the vehicle safely and is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

As you can see, you can still face DUI charges with a BAC under 0.08% or even if your BAC is unknown, so long as you were not capable of operating the vehicle safely. Therefore, it is important to contact a Wyoming DUI attorney if you face DUI charges. Hiring an attorney provides you with the best opportunity to reduce or eliminate your DUI charges.

Overview of DUI/DWI Penalties under Wyoming Laws

Under Wyoming DUI laws, the severity of your punishment for a DUI offense depends on a number of factors. These factors include:

• The number of prior DUI convictions you have,
• The time frame within which you’ve received DUI convictions,
• The amount of alcohol in your blood,
• Whether someone was hurt as a result of your intoxicated driving, and
• Whether you were driving while intoxicated with a child under 16 in the vehicle.

However, the most important factor under Wyoming DUI laws is the number of prior DUI convictions you might have. A Wyoming DUI lawyer can help you understand whether your punishment is excessive and fight to lower your punishment to an appropriate level.

FIRST DUI/DWI CONVICTION IN WYOMING

A first DUI offense in Wyoming carries the least severe punishment. For a first-time Wyoming DUI conviction, the punishments you can face include:

• Up to six months in jail,
• Up to a $750 fine, and
• Suspension of your license for 90 days.

In addition, a court may order you to receive a substance abuse assessment and complete a first offender DUI class. If your BAC was greater than 0.15%, the State of Wyoming can require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle for a period of six months.

If you face charges for a first DUI offense, speak with a Wyoming DUI lawyer as soon as possible.

SECOND DUI/DWI CONVICTION IN WYOMING

If you face a second Wyoming DUI conviction within 10 years of your first conviction, the punishments you can receive include:

• Seven days to six months in jail,
• A $250 to $750 fine,
• The suspension of your license for up to one year, and
• The installation of an IID on your vehicle for a period of one year.

The State of Wyoming may also require you to receive a substance abuse assessment and complete a state-approved substance abuse program after a second DUI conviction. A Wyoming DUI attorney can help you potentially reduce your penalties for a second DUI offense.

THIRD DUI/DWI CONVICTION IN WYOMING

The penalties for a third DUI conviction within 10 years of your first are severe. Specifically, the punishments for a third Wyoming DUI conviction include:

• Between one and six months in jail,
• A fine of at least $750 to $3,000,
• The suspension of your license for up to three years, and
• The installation of an IID on your vehicle for a period of two years.

A court may also order you to complete a state-approved substance abuse treatment program after a third DUI conviction. Due to the severity of a third DUI conviction in 10 years, it is essential that you speak with a DUI attorney as soon as possible.

FOURTH DUI/DWI CONVICTION IN WYOMING

The punishments for a fourth or more DUI conviction within 10 years are extremely harsh. The State of Wyoming considers a fourth DUI conviction a felony, and as a result, it carries much stricter penalties. These penalties include:

• Up to two years in prison,
• Up to a $10,000 fine,
• The suspension of your license, and
• The installation of an IID for the remainder of your life.

The duration of your license suspension will vary depending on the facts of your case. The State of Wyoming will also require you to receive a substance abuse assessment and complete a state-approved substance abuse treatment program.

No matter how many prior DUI convictions you may have, speaking with a DUI attorney gives you the best chance of potentially reducing or eliminating your DUI charges.

AGGRAVATING FACTORS

Like other states, Wyoming DUI Laws increase the punishment where certain aggravating factors are involved. In Wyoming, these aggravating factors include:

• Whether your BAC was very high (0.15% or higher),
• Whether you hurt someone in an accident while driving under the influence, and
• Whether you had someone under age 16 in the car with you.

Any of the above is an aggravating factor that will increase the penalties you suffer. If you believe any of these aggravating factors apply to your case, you should speak with a Wyoming DUI lawyer as soon as possible.

Probation

In addition to the punishments discussed above, a court may sentence you to probation for a DUI conviction. Probation can be sentenced instead of or in addition to jail time, fines, and other penalties. In Wyoming DUI cases, probation usually lasts for a maximum of three years.

Probation means that you are put under supervision for a period of time and are subject to certain conditions. Conditions relating to DUI could include attendance and completion of an alcohol abuse treatment program.

Other Consequences

In addition to jail time and fines, a DUI conviction has other consequences that can negatively affect other aspects of your life.

A DUI conviction can make it harder for you to obtain a driver license in the future. This can make it more difficult to get to your current job or even find a new job if you don’t have other forms of transportation available to you.

A DUI can also have a substantial impact on your future if you were underage at the time you received a DUI or hold a commercial driver license (CDL). A DUI conviction can also raise your car insurance rates, which can be detrimental to your financial well-being.

If you face a DUI conviction, you should speak with a Wyoming DUI attorney who can help you understand the consequences a DUI conviction can have on your life.

HOW A WYOMING DUI/DWI ATTORNEY CAN HELP YOU

It is important to realize that an arrest is not a conviction, and you might have defenses no matter how dire things look immediately after getting picked up. A skilled, experienced Wyoming DUI attorney can raise all applicable defenses to your case to give you the best chance at reducing or eliminating your DUI charges.

For example, an attorney might be able to fight your case by arguing that:

• The officer had no probable cause to stop you, so your arrest is unconstitutional;
• The officer did not calibrate the breathalyzer properly;
• The field sobriety test was not accurate;
• You did not voluntarily consume alcohol;
• You reasonably believed that a prescription medication had worn off;
• There is insufficient evidence to show you could not operate a vehicle safely; or
• You operated the vehicle under the influence to prevent something worse from happening.

To have the best chance of a successful defense argument, it is essential that you hire a DUI lawyer soon after being charged. A lawyer can investigate the facts of your case to develop the best defense strategy possible.

Jeremy Hugus and his team at Cowboy Country Law will strive to build the best possible defense based on the facts of your case. We understand the severity of a DUI charge and the effect that it can have on the rest of your life. We know how seriously the State of Wyoming takes DUI, and we will fight to get you the best possible result.

To get started on your DUI defense, please contact us at Cowboy Country Law today for your free consultation.

What is Assault in Wyoming?

Assault is defined as an attempt or a threat to harm another person, regardless of whether the attempt is successful. The prosecutor does not need to demonstrate that you really injured the victim in order to convict you of assault; all he needs is evidence that you intended to inflict bodily harm. Assault may be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony charge, depending on the circumstances.

Wyoming assault penalties are determined by the nature of the crime and the circumstances surrounding the case. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor assault, you may face up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $750. If you are found guilty of a felony assault, you could face ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

What Happens When You Press Charges Against Someone for Assault?

When you press charges for assault, the case will go to trial. If the defendant is found guilty, they will be sentenced according to the penalties mentioned above. The sentence may also include community service, restitution, and probation.

If you’ve been assaulted, it’s critical to contact a Wyoming criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can assist you through the legal system and defend your rights. Charging someone with a crime is a serious step, and you should select someone who is knowledgeable about the law.

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Protect My Rights?

An experienced criminal defense attorney is the most effective approach to protect your rights. Your lawyer will examine the facts of your case and select the finest strategy. They can also work with the prosecutor on your behalf and fight for you in court.

Don’t wait to contact our firm if you’ve been charged with assault. We recognize the gravity of these accusations, and we will work hard to protect your rights. To begin working on your case, contact us immediately.

When Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney?

If you have been assaulted, it is important to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. There are several reasons for this. First, an attorney can help you understand your rights and options. Second, the attorney can guide you through the criminal justice system and help protect your rights. Finally, an experienced attorney can often negotiate a better deal for you with the prosecutor than you could on your own.

If you’ve been arrested for assault, you should contact a criminal defense attorney right away. An attorney can assist you in understanding the charges against you and the potential consequences. An attorney may also investigate the accusations made against you and gather evidence to support your case during trial. For a free consultation, call our criminal defense firm now at 307-333-7884.

Domestic violence occurs when a household member attempts to cause or causes bodily injury to another household member.

Most of the time, domestic violence charges are a form of misdemeanor simple assault and battery.

However, more serious situations, such as those involving weapons or strangulation, can be charged as felonies.

In Wyoming, a household member includes:

• Current and former spouses,
• Individuals who currently or previously lived together in a romantic relationship,
• Adults sharing living quarters,
• Parents and their adult children,
• Individuals who previously dated or are currently dating, and
• Individuals who have a child together.

If you face domestic violence charges in Wyoming, you should contact a Wyoming domestic violence defense attorney today.

Laws and Penalties

Common Wyoming domestic violence laws include domestic assault, domestic battery, and strangulation of a household member.

DOMESTIC ASSAULT

Wyoming law defines domestic assault as when a household member unlawfully attempts to cause bodily injury to another household member.

A first-time domestic assault offense carries a punishment of up to six months in jail and/or up to a $750 fine.

The punishment increases to a maximum of one year in jail and/or a $750 fine if the offender has previously been convicted of domestic assault or has been convicted of any of the following crimes:

• Domestic battery,
• Simple assault,
• Battery,
• Child abuse,
• Strangulation of a household member,
• Aggravated assault and battery,
• Reckless endangerment,
• Unlawful contact,
• Kidnapping,
• Felonious restraint, or
• False imprisonment.

A court can also impose a sentence of up to three years of probation in addition to jail time and fines.

DOMESTIC BATTERY

In Wyoming, domestic battery occurs when a household member knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another household member by use of physical force.

A first-time domestic battery offense carries a punishment of up to six months in jail and/or up to a $750 fine.

However, the punishment increases to a maximum of one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine if the offender has previously been convicted of domestic battery or any of the other crimes listed above within the past five years.

Additionally, if the offender has been convicted of domestic battery two or more times within the past 10 years, or domestic battery and any of the other crimes listed above, the punishment increases to a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

STRANGULATION OF A HOUSEHOLD MEMBER

Wyoming law defines strangulation of a household member as intentionally and knowingly or recklessly causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to another household member by impeding their breathing or blood circulation through:

• Applying pressure on the household member’s throat or neck, or
• Blocking the household member’s nose and mouth.

Strangulation of a household member is a felony and carries a punishment of up to 10 years in prison.

How a Wyoming Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Can Help You

If you face domestic violence charges in Wyoming, hiring a domestic violence defense attorney gives you the best chance at reducing or eliminating your charges.

Jeremy Hugus and our team at Cowboy Country Law understand the seriousness of a domestic violence accusation.

We will keep you informed throughout the criminal defense process and aggressively fight to get you the best possible result.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

What is a Sex Crime?

A sex crime is defined as any illegal act that is sexual in nature. This can include anything from rape and sexual assault to possession of child pornography and lewd conduct. Sex crimes are taken very seriously by law enforcement and can result in lengthy prison sentences if convicted. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced sex crimes lawyer on your side if you’re accused of or arrested for a sex crime.

An attorney who specializes in sex crimes will know the ins and outs of the law and will be able to help you build a strong defense against the charges. They’ll also be able to walk you through the criminal justice system and assist you in maintaining your rights.

What Kind of Cases Does a Sex Crime Lawyer Handle?

Sex crime lawyers handle a wide variety of cases, including but not limited to:

●     Rape

●     Sexual assault

●     Child pornography

●     Prostitution

●     Solicitation

●     Indecent exposure

●     Lewd conduct

Criminal defense attorneys who specialize in sex crimes will have the experience and knowledge necessary to aggressively defend you against these charges. They’ll know how to investigate the allegations against you and will work diligently to get the charges reduced or dismissed. If your case does go to trial, they’ll be prepared to present a strong case on your behalf. Don’t go through a sex crime accusation or trial alone – contact our office today for help.

What Does a Sex Crime Lawyer Do?

A sex crime lawyer’s job is to protect the rights of their client and ensure that they receive a fair trial. They’ll investigate the allegations against you and work to get the charges reduced or dismissed if possible. If your case does go to trial, they’ll present a strong defense on your behalf.

The cost of hiring a sex crimes lawyer will vary depending on the severity of the charges against you, the amount of work required to build your defense, and whether or not your case goes to trial. Our law firm offers free initial consultations, so it’s important to speak with our attorneys before making a decision.

What Qualities Does a Good Sex Crime Lawyer Have?

When you’re facing sex crime charges, it’s important to hire an attorney who has experience handling these types of cases and whom you feel comfortable with. You should also look for an attorney who is:

●     A good listener

●     Compassionate

●     Knowledgeable

●     Aggressive

●     Dedicated

●     Detail-oriented

These are all qualities that our firm’s lawyers can claim. If you or someone you know has been accused or arrested for a sex crime, it’s important to reach out to our office as soon as possible. Our attorneys will evaluate your situation and assist you in selecting the best course of action. For a free consultation, contact our criminal defense law firm now at 307-333-7884.

What is a Misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is a less serious criminal offense than a felony. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by fines, probation, or incarceration for up to one year in jail. Some examples of misdemeanors include trespassing, petty theft, and simple assault. They can be charged expunged from your record after a certain period of time.

What is a Felony?

A felony is a more serious criminal offense than a misdemeanor. Felonies are punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or death. Some examples of felonies include murder, rape, and armed robbery.

What Is the Major Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?

The major difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the potential punishment. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail, while a felony is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or death.

There are different types of misdemeanors and felonies. The type of offense will determine the potential punishment. For example, a first-degree misdemeanor is more serious than a third-degree misdemeanor. Depending on the facts of the case and the criminal history of the defendant, a felony could be charged as a state jail felony, which is less serious than a third-degree felony.

You can get your misdemeanor expunged in most states. The process for getting a misdemeanor expunged varies from state to state. An expungement is a court-ordered process that seals or destroys your criminal record. Once your record is expunged, it will not show up on most background checks. This means that you will not have to disclose your criminal history to potential employers, landlords, or schools.

Why Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can evaluate the facts of your case and help you decide on the best course of action. Attorney fees can be expensive, but it is important to remember that an attorney can help you avoid jail time and a criminal record.

If you have been arrested for a misdemeanor or felony, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. The lawyer can review the facts of your case and help you understand your options. Reach out to Cowboy Country Law for additional help on your case. We have experience representing clients in both misdemeanor and felony cases. We understand the importance of getting the best possible outcome for our clients. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.

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 Law 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 Law 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 Law 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 Law 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 Law 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.