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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.

If you have violated probation, the time to get help is right now.  Understanding probation, whether or not accusations of breaking probation are valid, and how to defend a client accused of a violation is the job of a criminal defense law firm. Whether you face a hearing for violating probation or fear you may soon face one, you need to prepare yourself.  WHAT IS PROBATION? Probation is a sentence through which an offender remains under court supervision as part of their punishment. It is intended to correct the offender’s behavior through control in the community, as it is a sentence that generally is in place of going to jail or prison. But it comes with a catch: Violating probation can lead to severe consequences. WHAT IS A PROBATION VIOLATION? If you are on probation, you likely have terms or conditions associated with that sentence. These commonly include: Meeting with a probation officer;Complying with drug tests;Holding a job or attending school/training;Participating in counseling, drug treatment, or other services; andCompleting community service. There may also be rules related to when you may leave your home, with whom you may associate, and where/when you can travel. The judicial system considers failing to follow any of the conditions of probation a probation violation. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU VIOLATE PROBATION? As probation is a form of punishment, as defined and explained in Wyoming law, and the court takes adhering to the terms seriously. Therefore, there are probation violation consequences.  Some of these could be: Stricter rules related to existing probation terms (i.e., more counseling, additional community service);New additional terms of probation;Fines; andRevoking probation and ordering the person to serve time behind bars. Our courts and correctional systems consider probation somewhat of a privilege, only for those offenders they believe can serve their sentence while living in the community. If you have violated probation, your skilled attorney may hold the key to convincing the court that it need not give you additional/different consequences.  HOW CAN A CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY HELP? First of all, your attorney is on your side. They will not judge you, either for the initial crime the court convicted you of or for the alleged probation violation. A good lawyer knows that an action or mistake does not define a person. As you work with your attorney, they will map out a plan for your defense. In cases of violation of probation, some defenses include: Arguing that the probation officer presented inaccurate information and that you did not violate probation;Presenting exceptional circumstances that led to the violation (i.e., you missed curfew due to an emergency);Explaining that you misunderstood the terms of probation (i.e., you did not realize you could not travel out of state for just a day trip); andAccepting responsibility, acknowledging the violation, and seeking mercy. To start mounting your best defense, contact a criminal defense attorney. They will discuss your options and then go to work for you. Ultimately, their goal will be to lessen any consequences you may face for breaking probation. COWBOY COUNTRY CRIMINAL DEFENSE: A LAW FIRM FOR THE PEOPLE Wyoming citizens know Jeremy Hugus, owner of Cowboy Country Criminal Defense, as the one to seek when they need help. Jeremy is a skilled trial attorney with a down-to-earth demeanor and a passion for defending those facing criminal charges. Your best shot at freedom lies with Cowboy Country Criminal Defense. Call 307-333-7884 or contact us online now.

Consult a Sophisticated and Accomplished Wyoming Criminal Defense Lawyer for Advice If You Have Concerns About Punishments for White-Collar Crime White-collar crime is under the microscope more now than ever before. Federal, state, and local law enforcement agents work together closely to investigate and prosecute white-collar crimes. Incredibly, the United States Attorney for the District of Wyoming estimated that prosecutors dedicated 8% of their workload to investigating and prosecuting white-collar criminals. The figure does not account for all the white-collar criminal cases pursued by Wyoming state prosecutors. Moreover, the general public takes a harsh stance on white-collar crime and often wants people convicted of white-collar crime to receive severe punishments.  You are undoubtedly in a tough spot if you are under indictment or were charged with white-collar crimes. You have options, but you must understand the white-collar crime punishment severity you face before deciding which course of action you should take. Having a tough, aggressive, and knowledgeable Wyoming white-collar criminal defense lawyer by your side could make the difference for you and your future. What Is White-Collar Crime? White-collar crime is a generic term used to describe a broad range of criminal offenses. White-collar crime, by definition, is non-violent. Moreover, financial gains often motivate people who allegedly commit white-collar crimes. Examples of white-collar crime include: Insurance fraud,Tax fraud,Tax evasion,Credit card fraud,Theft,Internet fraud,Money laundering,Bankruptcy fraud,Embezzlement,Computer fraud,Internet crimes,Bribery,Ponzi schemes,Healthcare fraud, Mortgage fraud, andInvestment fraud. Other crimes may fall under this broad range of offenses described as white-collar by the United States Attorneys Office for the District of Wyoming. Both local and federal authorities can investigate and prosecute white-collar crimes. Motives for Committing White-Collar Crime Typically, the white-collar criminal is a business person who has no record but has some sophisticated knowledge of their business. Their in-depth understanding of the inner workings of their industry helps them clandestinely conceal their fraud. People commit white-collar crimes because they see an opportunity to steal money and not get caught. Commonly, people begin stealing from their employers, organizations, or individuals because of greed, jealousy, or avarice. Some might have financial problems as a result of gambling or substance abuse. Whatever the motive, white-collar crime can have a disastrous effect on a person’s business.  White-Collar Crime Jail Sentences Under Wyoming state law, theft, which included embezzlement, is punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison for a felony. Prosecutors can pursue felony charges if the stolen property has a value exceeding $1,000. Otherwise, the crime is a misdemeanor punishable by no more than six months in jail and a fine of no more than $750.  The potential sentences vary depending on the type of white-collar crime. Generally, the maximum penalty for a white-collar felony in Wyoming is 10 years, but exceptions could apply to your case. Additionally, judges can stack prison sentences and order that you serve them “from and after.”  How Do Wyoming Judges Determine White-Collar Crime Severity? At one time, people convicted of white-collar crimes received little to no punishment. That is no longer the case. Many people convicted of white-collar crime, including celebrities and well-known people, have spent time behind bars for convictions classified as white-collar crimes. Not only did they end up in jail, but they had to pay enormous fines and participate in post-release supervision services.  Judges must consider several factors when determining an appropriate sentence for a convicted offender. Most people who face white-collar crime allegations have no prior criminal history.  Sentencing judges must consider the facts alleged by the prosecution. More egregious cases will convince judges to impose the harshest sentences. These sentences could include maximum prison time, probation, and a restitution order. A sentencing judge may exercise leniency if the accused expresses remorse and offers to repay the stolen money. However, most of the money is typically gone by the time law enforcement officers complete their investigation. Typically, people convicted of white-collar crimes cannot pay full restitution because they stole more than they could ever repay. Federal and state prosecutors may seek to have the accused forfeit any proceeds of white-collar crime. Asset forfeiture disgorges the ill-gotten gains from the accused. Volunteering to forfeit assets acquired by fraudulent means could convince a sentencing judge to impose a lighter sentence. Collateral Punishments for White-Collar Crime Anyone convicted of a white-collar crime might have difficulty regaining employment. Employers will find it difficult to trust someone convicted of fraud. Additionally, a professional licensee such as a lawyer, doctor, pharmacist, or broker will assuredly face professional discipline.  The social stigma associated with a white-collar criminal conviction should not be underestimated. Losing the ability to work in your professional industry can shatter your stature in the community.  Additionally, any person who is not a citizen of the United States and receives a conviction for a white-collar crime faces denial of naturalization rights, potential deportation, and other immigration consequences. Avoid Punishments for White-Collar Crime with a Skilled White-Collar Criminal Defense Lawyer  If you are the subject of a police investigation or face white-collar criminal charges, you must act immediately. Engaging a highly skilled and top-rated Wyoming criminal defense lawyer to represent you could help you avoid any white-collar crime jail sentence. Call attorney Jeremy Hugus and his team with Cowboy Country Criminal Defense today at 307-333-7884 to learn more about your potential defenses and how to avoid punishments for white-collar crime. 

Seek Guidance from a Qualified Natrona County Criminal Defense Attorney Your first instinct might be to panic if you find out that you have a warrant for your arrest. You might be confused as to what to do next. Running and hiding or even ignoring the warrant might seem like the best thing to do.  These feelings are perfectly natural and in line with our fight or flight response.  However, ignoring a legal problem is never a good option. Meanwhile, running and hiding could only make matters worse for you and your family. People around you might offer advice. Although family and friends might have your best interest at heart, they might give you information that hurts you in the long run. Therefore, the only advice you can trust comes from a highly qualified and experienced Wyoming criminal defense lawyer.   Why Do I Have a Warrant for My Arrest? Police and courts in Wyoming issue arrest warrants for a variety of reasons. Common reasons people face arrest warrants include: The police believe you committed a crime;You defaulted on a court appearance;You violated a term of your pre-trial release;The probation department alleges you violated probation; orYou failed to satisfy a monetary order of the court, like paying a fine or restitution. No matter the reason you have a Natrona County arrest warrant, these are serious legal matters. As a result, consulting a Wyoming criminal defense lawyer with a reputation for aggressively protecting people’s rights will give you your best defense when you go to court to remove the warrant. Court-Issued Warrants in Natrona County In Natrona County, courts classify warrants as either pre-adjudication or post-adjudication. Either way, having a warrant means the police can arrest you at almost any time, no matter where they find you. Pre-adjudication warrants arise if you allegedly violated an order of pretrial release. A judge can issue a pre-adjudication warrant based on a motion filed by the prosecution called a petition to show cause.  The prosecution usually asks the court to issue an arrest warrant because they argue you violated a term of release. Orders of release commonly issued by courts, in addition to posting bond, include: Stay away/no contact orders;Remain drug/alcohol free;Take random drug tests;Attend counseling; andDo not get rearrested. Post-adjudication warrants refer to warrants issued by the court for a probation violation or failure to follow a court order. For example, you may have failed to pay an installment for a fine or not completed a DUI class. You might have a warrant for your arrest for other reasons. You might have an arrest warrant because you did not pay child support or the police claim that you committed a new crime. No matter the situation, talk to a savvy Wyoming criminal defense lawyer before it is too late. How Do You Find Out About Natrona County Warrants? You can search for your name on the Natrona County warrants list if you think you might have a warrant issued by either the 7th Judicial District or 7th Judicial Circuit Court. The Natrona County Sheriff’s Office updates the list daily. However, the sheriff’s office maintains only the Natrona County warrant list. It does not include a statewide or nationwide search.  You might learn that you have a warrant from other sources. The police might go by an old address of yours. You could also find out that the State suspended your driver license or your concealed carry permit. The court may notify you by mail as well. You might even learn about a warrant if someone, such as a new employer, runs a background check on you.  Unfortunately, many people find out they have a warrant at the wrong time. People are often caught off guard when police pull them over for speeding. Additionally, sheriff’s deputies could arrest someone at work or in a public place like a shopping mall. Officers have no discretion. They must take you into custody and bring you to court if they learn about your warrant. I Saw My Name on the Natrona County Warrants List; What Should I Do Now? You need to act quickly. The first step you need to take is to call a criminal defense lawyer dedicated to protecting people’s rights. You might not know precisely why the court issued a warrant for your arrest. A criminal defense lawyer with a wealth of experience will help you learn more about the warrant. Then you and your lawyer can come up with a plan to minimize the intrusion an arrest warrant could have on your life.  Simply waiting for police to catch you, appearing in court to remove a warrant, or surrendering to the sheriff’s office without talking with a lawyer first could backfire. Instead, securing representation right away gives you some opportunity to take control of your situation. Your lawyer might talk to the prosecution about your warrant and agree on what should happen when you go to court. The prosecution might require you to post an additional bond or add further orders of release. At the very least, your attorney can arrange for you to come to court instead of the police arresting you.  Having a plan will also give you some time to take care of personal matters such as childcare, informing your employer, and gathering funds to post a bond.  Take Control of Your Situation If You Have a Natrona County Warrant Having a warrant for your arrest is not the end of the world, but you need to act. Otherwise, you could lose control over your life in a flash. At Cowboy Country Criminal Defense, we understand that mistakes happen. We’ve helped hundreds of clients who found themselves in a situation like you do now. We vow to do our best to help you resolve your warrant quickly and efficiently so you can go on with your life. Contact Cowboy Country Criminal Defense attorney Jeremy Hugus and his team immediately online or by calling 307-333-7884 for your best shot at freedom.

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, andAntlered 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. 

You have the right to have an attorney represent you if you are under arrest or facing criminal charges in Wyoming. The time after an arrest could be very stressful. You might have questions about how to choose an affordable Wyoming criminal defense attorney. You might even question whether hiring an attorney is the best thing for you to do.  Your freedom is not cheap; it is invaluable. A conviction for any offense could cause you to experience significant hardships. You are more than the charges you face. The Wyoming criminal defense team with Cowboy Country Criminal Defense will work closely with you to develop a successful defense for any charge in Casper and anywhere in Wyoming.  How Do I Know If I Need a Lawyer? Your best bet to avoid a harsh punishment or avoid a conviction altogether is by hiring a criminal lawyer to represent you. You should have a lawyer with experience and a wealth of knowledge by your side any time you appear in court, answer to criminal charges, or face police questioning. Any attempt you make to try to work things out by yourself might be disastrous. You will not be able to hire a cheap criminal defense attorney to unravel the mess.  What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do? A criminal defense attorney is your advocate. A criminal defense attorney is the only person who stands between you and the long arm of the law. Criminal defense lawyers make sure that the playing field is level for you. Maybe you think you will get the same results if you hire a criminal defense attorney cheap. A criminal defense lawyer with a lack of experience or resources might be inexpensive. However, you could pay a steep price with your freedom. Why Should I Pay for a Lawyer? Can’t the Court Give Me One? You cannot receive representation by the public defender unless the court rules that you are indigent. Even if you do not have a lot of money, hiring a criminal lawyer might be the best option. Public defenders have minimal resources. They are often overworked and carry large caseloads. You might not receive the individualized attention from the public defender you will receive if you hire a criminal defense lawyer.   Why Shouldn’t I Represent Myself? Criminal law and procedure in Wyoming are complex. Representing yourself means that you understand the relevant laws and procedural rules. The prosecutor cannot give you legal advice, and neither can the judge. You have nowhere to turn if you cannot research the law or have a question about a tactical decision. People believe that they can represent themselves better than a lawyer can because they know what happened. However, you must present your case carefully and strategically. One wrong move means that you could lose your negotiating position or forfeit your rights.  Self-representation is way too risky. Allowing an experienced Wyoming criminal defense attorney to handle your case instead of representing yourself could make a tremendous difference for you and your future. How Do I Determine the Cost of an Affordable Wyoming Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me? The cost of an affordable Wyoming criminal defense attorney depends on many factors. An affordable criminal defense attorney must consider: The severity of the charges;The likelihood of a trial;The chances of resolving the case before trial; andThe pre-trial litigation required to give you the best chance, such as arguing motions to dismiss and suppress. Other considerations could play into the cost of a criminal defense lawyer. You have to consider the possibility you will regret hiring a defense attorney cheap rather than securing the services of a highly rated criminal lawyer. Call Cowboy Country Criminal Defense Today with All Your Questions  If you’re wondering, Is there an affordable criminal defense attorney near me? look no further than Jeremy Hugus and Cowboy Country Criminal Defense. Jeremy and his team will work with you on a fee that ensures you receive the level of advocacy you deserve. Jeremy has earned his reputation as a tough negotiator and brave criminal trial lawyer. He’s not afraid to stand up for you. Contact Cowboy County Criminal Defense right now at 307-333-7884 before it’s too late.

Getting arrested is a stressful situation. You need to do what you can to protect your rights. Having an understanding of what to do when arrested by police could help you avoid making matters worse. Also, understanding what to do after being arrested is necessary to safeguard your best interests. As experienced Wyoming criminal defense lawyers, our team with Cowboy Country Criminal Defense aggressively represents our clients in and out of court. As seasoned criminal trial attorneys, we will develop a defense strategy with your best interests in mind.  What to Do When You Get Arrested Knowing what to do when someone gets arrested in Wyoming is as important as knowing what not to do. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you get charged. You should: Be respectful with the police;Remain as calm as possible;Ask what your charges are;Ask about your bail status;Ask for your phone call; andAsk for your lawyer immediately.  Be aware that police stations and sheriff’s offices have surveillance cameras everywhere. They might record your calls or have the booking officer listen. Do not say anything about your case over the phone. You could tell the person you called where you are, let them know your bail status, and ask them to call a Wyoming criminal defense lawyer. Understand that the arrest and booking process might not be pleasant. Let the officers do their job, even if you believe that they treated you unfairly. An arrest starts the judicial process, and you will have an opportunity to plead your case to a judge later.  What Not to Do If You Are Under Arrest Law enforcement officers are human. We know they make mistakes. You should realize that most law enforcement officers just want to go home at the end of their shift. We recognize that some officers, being human, are also bad cops. Let us do our job protecting you and your future. Based on our experience, we know that you should avoid: Fighting with the police;Resisting arrest;Acting disrespectfully;Trying to escape or destroy property; or Making threats. You compound your legal problems when you do any of these things. Rest assured that we know how to develop a defense strategy even if you were not a model prisoner. Do Not Talk to the Police We advise you not to talk with the police. You have a right to speak to investigators if you want. However, you should know that the police are not on your side if you decide to talk with them. The law allows the prosecution to share your statements with the judge or jury at your trial. Therefore, talking with the police could mean that the State will use your words against you. The Miranda Warnings The police must give you the Miranda warnings before they start interrogating you after your arrest. These warnings apply only when you are in custody and the police ask you non-booking questions. The Miranda statement given by police should warn you that: You have the right to remain silent;You have the right to talk to a lawyer before answering questions;Anything you say can be used against you; andYou have the right to an attorney free of charge if you cannot afford one. Smart investigators might resort to trickery to get you to talk. Investigators are known for trying to engage in casual conversation, invite you to tell your side of the story, or use other subtle tricks to get you talking. They also know how to keep you talking once you start. Also, police officers cannot and must not give legal advice. Don’t ask. Resist the temptation to talk, and immediately ask for your lawyer if the police try to talk with you. You can’t talk your way out of an arrest, and the court cannot hold your silence against you.  The law is on your side. We will file motions designed to throw your statements out of evidence if you speak with the police. However, you should assume that the police and prosecutors will try to use as much evidence against you as they can. Refusing Consent to Search You have a right to refuse consent to search your property. The police cannot search items like your home or cell phone without your permission unless they have a search warrant. Do not help the police convict you by giving them your consent to search your private property.  You always have the right to refuse to consent. Refusing consent, like remaining silent, cannot be used against you in court. Call a Wyoming Criminal Defense Lawyer with a Track Record of Results Jeremy Hugus and his team with Cowboy Country Criminal Defense believe you are more than your charges indicate. Jeremy is a top-rated criminal defense lawyer whose mission is to ensure that you receive the best defense possible. Call Jeremy and our team with Cowboy Country Criminal Defense today at 307-333-7884 to talk with us about your Wyoming criminal case. Knowing what to do when someone gets arrested in Wyoming is hard. Call us for help.

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, andIndividuals 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, orFalse 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, orBlocking 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 Criminal Defense 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.

If you were charged with theft in Wyoming, you may be wondering, When does stealing become a felony? Theft charges and penalties in Wyoming vary depending on the facts of the case and the value of the stolen property. When stealing changes from a misdemeanor to a felony, the consequences can be significant. Whether you face a misdemeanor or a felony theft, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you get the best outcome for your case.  Theft Charge Laws in Wyoming In Wyoming, a person is guilty of theft if he or she knowingly takes the property of another person with the intent to deprive that person of the property. Note that the law states the theft must be done knowingly. This means that to be charged with theft in Wyoming you must have intended to steal the property in question.  The Difference Between a Misdemeanor Theft and Felony Theft Theft can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the stolen property as well as the underlying facts of the case. For example, if the defendant used a firearm during the theft, then it may be charged as aggravated robbery or burglary. Both charges carry harsher potential penalties than misdemeanor or felony theft.  Misdemeanor Theft Laws in Wyoming If the stolen property is worth less than $1,000, the theft will be charged as a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor theft is punishable by a fine of up to $750, up to 6 months in jail, or both. Examples of theft charged as misdemeanors in Wyoming include: Auto theft;Defrauding an innkeeper;Obtaining property by false pretenses;Unlawful use of theft detection shielding device; Breaking into a coin machine;Taking possession of land; andTelecommunications fraud. Although these crimes commonly result in misdemeanor charges, they can be charged as felonies if the value of the stolen property exceeds $1,000.  Felony Theft Laws in Wyoming  If the stolen property is worth $1,000 or more, the theft will be charged as a felony. Felony theft is also sometimes known as grand theft. A felony theft is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, up to 10 years in jail, or both.  Other theft crimes that are charged as felonies in Wyoming include: Auto theft (may depend on the value of the stolen car);Carjacking;Robbery;Burglary;Possession of tools to commit burglary; and Cattle or livestock theft.  Penalties for the above offenses include up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $10,000.  Contact a Defense Attorney Today  Cowboy Country Criminal Defense is a team of passionate Casper-based criminal defense attorneys. We represent defendants across Wyoming in all kinds of criminal cases. Contact us today online or by calling 307-333-7884. We will work with you to develop your case, step by step and fight for the best outcome.