Jeremy Hugus

Are text messages admissible in court?

If you are in a case where your texts might be relevant, you may be wondering if they are admissible.

Whether your text messages could help you or hurt, you’ll want to know how the court will treat them.

If you have been recently charged and need to know if your text messages will be used in court reach out to a criminal defense attorney to get more details.

The truth is, text messages are a new area for the law to consider.

So is social media.

The rules on evidence have been around for many years.

Fast, ubiquitous, and electronic forms of communication didn’t exist before, so courts are trying to apply old rules to new mediums.

Texting and social media are very new ways to communicate in general.

But, they are especially new for courts deciding whether or not they can be admissible as evidence.

The problem becomes when text messages have a particular value or can provide insight into a case.

Since many of us don’t chat on the phone anymore, text messages often provide the bulk of communication between parties.

Social media posts can also give a lot of insight into someone’s thoughts or actions.

They can even log where an individual was at a specific time.

If you are in the middle of a criminal case, it can be very stressful to wonder, “Are text messages admissible in court?”

Here, we’ll go over everything you need to know about the admissibility of text messages and social media posts.

So, how do courts handle these new communication forms? The answer, like many answers in the law, is “it depends.”

What is admissible evidence?

Before discussing text messages and social media specifically, we must consider the definition of admissible evidence.

Admissible evidence is anything relevant to a case that would make a material fact more or less probable. If evidence is not relevant, the court will not allow it.

Admissible evidence can include the following:

• Witness testimony
• Photographs
• Recordings
• Written documents or statements
• Physical or digital objects
• Scientific or medical results
• Charts or displays for the jury

Even relevant evidence may be subject to exclusion if it is unreliable or could confuse or mislead jurors.

It could also be subject to exclusion if it would unfairly prejudice the jurors against the defendant.

Relevant evidence may also be inadmissible if it is hearsay.

WHAT IS HEARSAY?

Hearsay is a hurdle that the parties need to cross to admit statements that weren’t made in court. The definition of hearsay is a statement not made in court offered as evidence to prove its veracity or truth.

For example, imagine you sent a text message to a friend that said, “Bob vandalized Jane’s car.” If Jane’s attorney tried to admit your text as evidence that Bob did it, this would be hearsay.

The general rule on hearsay is that it is inadmissible. However, there are many exceptions to hearsay which would allow certain statements into evidence.

ARE TEXT MESSAGES HEARSAY?

Given the hearsay rule, are text messages hearsay? Yes, under the definition of the term, text messages and social media posts are hearsay. They are statements made outside of court, which are generally introduced to prove the truth of the text or post.

However, courts have largely allowed texts and social media posts under various exceptions to the hearsay rule. Sometimes, a court will allow them to show a fact other than the content of the message. For example, they may show that the parties had a close relationship.

If you are wondering if your texts or posts are admissible, it’s better to prepare yourself: they likely will be.

WHAT ELSE DOES THE COURT CONSIDER ADMISSIBLE EVIDENCE?

For evidence to be admissible, the party introducing it needs to authenticate it. Authentication is the process of proving that something is what the party claims it to be.

For texts and social media, authentication would mean showing that the text or post was actually a text or post from the party who supposedly sent it or posted it.

For online communications, authentication can happen by showing that online communication came from a phone number or account associated with the person who purportedly sent or posted it.

Depending on the court, this may not be an acceptable method of authentication for online communications. After all, other people can access online accounts and cell phones that they do not own.

The court may require additional information for authentication.

Can text messages be used in criminal court?

In Wyoming, the criminal court will generally allow text messages and social media posts. Wyoming has a rule which allows the prosecutor to bring in a text or post by the defendant. (Wyoming Rule of Evidence 801(d)(2)).

They will still need to be authenticated, but if a prosecutor wants to introduce them against the defendant, they can.

If a defendant wanted to bring in a text message or social media post that they sent or posted themselves, they would need to get around the hearsay rule.

So, are text messages admissible in court?

Generally, you should anticipate your texts and social media posts being admissible in court.

Although they will need to meet evidentiary standards and get around evidentiary exclusions, courts in Wyoming are likely to allow them in.

No matter what, when sending electronic messages or posting things online, consider that everything you say may come back to you in the future.

If you are in a criminal case and have concerns about text messages or social media posts you may have sent, contact the team at Cowboy Country Law.

We can help guide you on how best to handle your case and any potential evidence.

You Can Get a Misdemeanor Expunged in Wyoming with the Help of an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

Having a criminal record can haunt you for a long time. Even having a misdemeanor conviction on your record could lead to a lifetime of financial disadvantages and stigma.

However, Wyoming law allows some people who have misdemeanor convictions to expunge the convictions from their records.

So you may be wondering, Can you get a misdemeanor expunged from your record in Wyoming?

Expunging your record could lead to new opportunities for you and your family. But you have to make sure that you do it right because you only get one chance.

An experienced criminal defense lawyer from Cowboy Country Law can help you regain control over your life.

How Do I Get a Misdemeanor Expunged from My Record?

Wyoming’s criminal law allows you to expunge a misdemeanor conviction from your record. However, you have to follow the law closely. If not, you could lose your chance to expunge your record.

That’s why having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer guide you through the process is the best way to protect your future.

Wyoming law explains how to get misdemeanor charges expunged. The law varies depending on the type of the charges.

EXPUNGING ARREST RECORDS 

If the police arrested but never charged you or the court dismissed your charges, then 7-13-1401 of the Wyoming code applies.

This section allows a person to file a petition for an order expunging all records relating to the arrest in the court where the charges arose. The records of arrest include all arrest records, court records, and the disposition of the case.

You have to meet certain requirements to have the court expunge your records. First, you have to wait at least 180 days from the date of the arrest or when the charges were dismissed to file your petition.

Also, you cannot have any charges pending against you at the time you file a petition to expunge your record. Your case must have concluded because the prosecutor never sought criminal charges or the court or the prosecution dismissed your case.

A deferred adjudication or conviction on your charges makes you ineligible to follow this simplified procedure. If your situation meets these requirements, you might be eligible to apply for an expungement order.

The prosecution has a right to object to your petition. They have to file a written objection within 20 days of the date you filed your petition. If the prosecution objects, then the judge may grant you a hearing on the case.

Otherwise, the judge could rule on your petition without a hearing. If all these possibilities seem confusing, don’t worry—a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer from Cowboy Country Law can help you navigate the process.

How to Get a Misdemeanor Conviction Expunged

As you might expect, expunging a conviction is more difficult than expunging charges without a conviction.

Section 7-13-1501 of the Wyoming code governs the process for asking the court to expunge a misdemeanor conviction. Remember that a plea of nolo contendere counts as a conviction under this statute.

The statute sets forth limitations on who can ask for an order to expunge a misdemeanor conviction and when you can file the petition.

You have to wait at least five years after the conviction before asking the judge to expunge it, and that five-year waiting period does not start until you complete your sentence, including any probation or parole obligations.

You cannot ask the court to expunge a misdemeanor conviction relating to the use or attempted use of a firearm. Furthermore, you cannot ask the court to expunge a conviction if you are a health care worker convicted of crimes relating to patient care.

You have to pay a $100 fee to file the petition to expunge misdemeanor convictions. You can move to expunge misdemeanor convictions only once in your lifetime.

You must serve a copy of your petition on the prosecution and the division of criminal investigation. The prosecution has 30 days to file an objection.

Additionally, the prosecution must notify all victims of convictions listed in the petition.

The judge has to find that you do not present harm to yourself, another identifiable person, or society at large. The court can order an evidentiary hearing on these issues.

Your attorney can examine and cross-examine the witnesses at this hearing.

As you can see, there are a lot of details in the expungement process, and the stakes are high if you make a mistake in following the requirements.

That’s why you need a skilled attorney to file your petition to expunge your misdemeanor convictions.

What Does Expunging a Record Do?

Obtaining an expungement order from the court means that all evidence of your conviction is removed from the public record. Law enforcement officers can use the expunged information for criminal investigations.

But employers, landowners, mortgage companies, and others who frequently check people’s criminal histories cannot view expunged records.

Perhaps more importantly, you do not have to report that you were charged or have a conviction if the court grants your petition to expunge your records.

A benefit of expungement is that Wyoming law restores any rights you lost as a consequence of a conviction. For instance, if you lost your right to possess a firearm, to vote, or to have a driver’s license, the judge’s order expunging your records restores those rights to you.

Aside from law enforcement having continued access to your expunged records, any information in the hands of third parties outside the courthouse can remain public.

So for example, any news reports or investigative reports created by a private agency are not subject to an order expunging your records.

Call Cowboy Country Law Today to Learn More On How to Get a Misdemeanor Expunged

Cowboy Country Law lawyer Jeremy Hugus is ready to fight for you. Call Cowboy Country Law right now to discuss your options.

Don’t try to take on the government yourself. They have experienced lawyers, and you should too. Call Cowboy Country Law today at 307-333-7884 to find out what we can do for you.

You might be asking, what does defrauding an innkeeper mean? Defrauding an innkeeper is a legal term that covers a number of different thefts, largely the use or enjoyment of different types of services without paying for them.

What is defrauding an innkeeper in Wyoming?

In non-legal terms and help you understand the possible charges and penalties you face.

Defrauding an innkeeper, also known as “dine and dash,” is a punishable offense in Wyoming.

Wyoming Laws Related to Defrauding an Innkeeper 

What is defrauding an innkeeper in WY? Wyoming Statute 6-3-406 prohibits taking, ingesting, or using products or services from a business without paying.

Examples of defrauding an innkeeper include:

• Eating at a restaurant without paying;
• Staying at a hotel without paying; and
• Getting gas at a gas station without paying.

Defrauding an innkeeper in Wyoming can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of services used.

Defrauding an innkeeper is a specific intent crime.

This means that a person charged with defrauding the innkeeper must have had the intent to defraud at the time the theft occurred.

PENALTIES

The penalties for defrauding an innkeeper depend on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony.

Defrauding an innkeeper is a misdemeanor if the value of stolen services is less than $1,000.

If the value of stolen services is $1,000 or more, defrauding an innkeeper is a felony offense in Wyoming.

A misdemeanor conviction carries a potential fine of up to $750, up to 6 months in jail, or both.

A felony conviction carries a potential fine of up to $10,000, up to 10 years in jail, or both.

DEFENSES

The best defense to a charge of defrauding an innkeeper is lack of intent to defraud.

If you didn’t pay for your meal or your hotel room because of a miscommunication or because you forgot, were distracted, or thought someone else paid, you may be able to argue the defense of lack of intent or an honest mistake.

How a Wyoming Defense Attorney Can Help 

If you’ve been charged with defrauding an innkeeper in Wyoming, you should seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

A Wyoming criminal defense attorney will be able to answer questions like,

An experienced attorney will work with you to develop a case strategy that reflects your best interests. An attorney will represent you in court and negotiate with prosecutors to seek the best outcome for your case and for your future.

CONTACT US TODAY 

Cowboy Country Law is a Casper-based law firm that represents defendants across the state of Wyoming.

We will work with you to develop your case, and we will negotiate with prosecutors to protect your rights and promote your best interests.

Contact us today online or by calling 307-333-7884 and let us represent you.

Talk with an Experienced Wyoming Criminal Defense Lawyer to Understand Your Rights Fully If You Face Charges Under Wyoming Theft Laws

Wyoming laws take a hard stance on theft crimes. You could face lengthy jail time along with other penalties for a theft conviction. Therefore, you need to take theft charges seriously.

Don’t try to take on the government’s lawyers alone. Experienced prosecutors are no match for a person representing themselves. You need a tough, knowledgeable, and skilled criminal defense lawyer to stand up and fight for you.

At Cowboy Country Law, we believe that you are better than the charges you face. Let us help you get the best result possible W when you face a theft charge.

Theft Laws in Wyoming

Theft is the act of taking another person’s property without compensation and with the intent to deprive the owner of the benefit of the property permanently.

It can include stealing or disposing of another’s property in a way that prevents them from using it. The crime can also include holding another person’s property for ransom. The statute covers both goods and services.

As you can see, Wyoming’s theft law is all-encompassing. It is so broad that receiving stolen property and “fencing” or selling stolen property also falls under the theft statute.

The crimes of shoplifting and theft by false pretenses (obtaining another’s property by knowingly making false representations with the intent to defraud) are also included in this statute.

HOW ARE THEFT LAWS DIFFERENT FROM ROBBERY LAWS IN WYOMING?

Theft refers to stealing without resorting to force or violence. Robbery, on the other hand, is taking another person’s property by show of force.

A display of force might include showing a weapon such as a knife or a firearm or threatening to use a knife or firearm to take the person’s property by force.

Robbery can also include “strong-arm” robbery. A good example of strong-arm robbery is purse snatching. By contrast, theft does not require you to use force to commit.

Theft Penalties Under Wyoming Law

Wyoming theft laws divide the penalties into felonies and misdemeanors. The difference between the two lies in the value of the property or services stolen or the type of item stolen.

No matter which class of crime you face, you may end up in jail, have to pay fines or restitution and be placed on probation.

WHEN IS THEFT A FELONY IN WYOMING?

The prosecution can charge you with theft as a felony when the value of the property or services is worth more than $1,000.

Additionally, the government can charge you with theft as a felony for stealing a firearm, a swine, a horse, a mule, a sheep, cattle, or a buffalo, no matter the value.

The maximum prison sentence for theft charged as a felony is 10 years. The judge can order you to pay as much as $10,000 in fines as well as restitution. Additionally, the judge could place you on probation after you get out of prison.

WHAT IS MISDEMEANOR THEFT IN WYOMING?

The theft laws define misdemeanor theft as stealing property or services worth less than $1,000. If convicted, you could go to jail for up to six months and have to pay a $750 fine. The judge could put you on probation for this charge and order you to make restitution to the victims.

THEFT BY COMMON SCHEME OR TRANSACTION

Wyoming law allows the government to add up the stolen property amounts if the thefts occurred during a common scheme. A common scheme or transaction is one continuous enterprise rather than individual thefts.

Theft by a common scheme is not a separate crime. Rather it is a legal theory that allows the prosecution to build a felony case by adding the stolen property values together.

For example, an employee who steals $50 from a cash register twenty times could face a felony charge under the theory of theft by a common scheme rather than 20 misdemeanor charges.

THEFT BY SHOPLIFTING

Shoplifting is stealing from a store and falls under the theft laws of Wyoming. You could face theft by shoplifting charges for either asportation or concealment.

Asportation is a fancy word that just means the act of proceeding past the last point of purchase in the store without paying for the merchandise; it’s when a person takes goods away from a retail store without paying.

The crime of shoplifting by concealment is committed by hiding merchandise on your person or in your belongings while still in the store.

The prosecution has the burden of proving that you formed the intent to deprive the shopkeeper of the value of the property when walking out of the store or concealing the item.

Accidentally walking out of the store without paying is not shoplifting.

As with general crimes of theft, the value of the property stolen determines whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges. The penalties for shoplifting are the same as for general theft.

Defenses to Theft in Wyoming

Since every case is different, only a thorough analysis of the facts of your case will determine the best course of action for you. Remember that the prosecution bears the burden of proving you guilty.

If the prosecution cannot prove you were the person caught stealing or that you had the guilty intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, then you could win an acquittal. Sometimes “mistake” is also a valid defense.

This means that the prosecution cannot prove you had the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property if you took something you mistakenly thought was yours.

Cowboy Country Law Believes in You

We believe that you are better than your worst day. That’s why we fight tooth and nail for justice for our clients. We use our experience, knowledge, and determination to give you the best defense possible.

Call Cowboy Country Law today at 307-333-7884 to learn more about how we could best serve you.

You Need Advice from an Experienced Wyoming Drug Defense Lawyer to Help You Avoid Serious Consequences from a Felony Marijuana Charge

Change is on the horizon. More and more states have loosened their marijuana laws. However, Wyoming has not joined the parade just yet. In fact, the possession of marijuana in Wyoming, even in small quantities, could be a felony.

Having a felony amount of marijuana can lead to severe consequences for you and your family. But at Cowboy Country Law, we believe that you are worth more as a person than the charges you face.

Contact us today to find out how Jeremy Hugus, our experienced and aggressive marijuana felony defense attorney, can help you get back on track.

What Is a Felony Amount of Marijuana in Wyoming?

Possession of marijuana can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. The surrounding circumstances dictate when you face a felony marijuana charge rather than a misdemeanor charge.

Under Wyoming’s drug laws, the possession of a small amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor.  According to Wyoming Statutes §35-7-1031(c)(i)(A), the possession of a controlled substance in plant form is a misdemeanor as long as the substance weighs less than three ounces. However, any amount over 0.3 grams of hashish or marijuana concentrates is a felony. The maximum penalty for misdemeanor possession of marijuana is one year in jail and a fine of no more than $1,000.

Interestingly, ingesting marijuana is also a misdemeanor if you are under the influence. Getting high in Wyoming could send you to jail for up to six months, with a fine of up to $750. Additionally, cultivating or growing marijuana is a misdemeanor. That charge also has a six-month maximum sentence and a $750 maximum fine.

Therefore, if police catch you with an ounce of weed on you, they can only charge you with a misdemeanor. However, they could charge you with a felony if you have prior convictions for drug possession, or they have evidence that you intended to distribute the marijuana in your possession. At that point, you might wonder, Is possession of marijuana a felony?

When Is Possession of Marijuana a Felony?

There are three types of felony marijuana charges in Wyoming. We will take a closer look at each one. Remember in Wyoming, as in many other states, any crime which has a period of incarceration for more than one year is a felony.

FELONY AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA

Under Wyoming Statutes §35-7-1031(c)(iii), possession of more than three ounces of marijuana is a felony. Similarly, possessing more than 0.3 grams of concentrated marijuana in liquid form or hashish is a felony.

Having two previous convictions for drug charges could also turn a misdemeanor into a felony. The maximum sentence for a felony conviction based on simple possession is five years in prison and a fine of no more than $10,000.

THE MARIJUANA FELONY CHARGE OF SELLING, OR POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE OR DELIVER

As we dive deeper into this discussion, it would be wise to keep in mind that federal drug laws also apply. This means that you could potentially face a felony marijuana charge in Wyoming federal district court for certain marijuana charges.

But at the state level, growing marijuana in Wyoming is not a felony. However, selling marijuana or possessing it with the intent to deliver is a felony. In those circumstances, the amount of marijuana you possess is irrelevant to the charge.  If you sell or have the intent to deliver, the maximum prison term is 10 years. You could also face up to a $10,000 fine.

Specially-trained narcotics officers know what to look for when they investigate someone for marijuana sales. Possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute is a “specific intent crime.” That means the state must prove you had the intent to distribute drugs.

INDICIA OF DISTRIBUTION

Drug cops use both direct and circumstantial evidence to build a case for drug dealing. Drug cases usually start with a tip from an informant, but not always. But a good investigator does not rely solely on a tip from an informant to make a case.

The police typically begin by gathering enough evidence to support probable cause and get a search warrant from the court.  Then, armed with a warrant, the police search the area to find evidence of drug distribution.

Here are some of the evidence police look for when investigating a drug dealer:

• Observing large amounts of foot traffic around a house that come and go quickly;
• Watching people go for “meaningless rides,” like driving around a block with someone for only a minute and then separating;
• Observing suspected hand-to-hand transactions;
• Finding drugs packaged in amounts commonly sold on the street;
• Finding extra packaging like plastic baggies;
• Discovering digital scales with drug residue;
• Locating drug ledgers;
• Finding large amounts of U.S. currency (especially when there is no explanation for having it);
• Uncovering the presence of firearms or other weapons;
• Finding large amounts of uncut drugs;
• Finding “hides” in houses and cars; and
• Obtaining witness statements, including admissions from the person under investigation.

Each case is different so your case might include some, but not all, of the evidence discussed above.

Defense Strategies When Your Charge Is Felony Possession of Marijuana 

ATTACKING THE POLICE INVESTIGATION

You have a right to be free from illegal searches and seizures. U.S. and Wyoming laws have many rules the police have to follow so they don’t violate your rights. Despite all of this information, police continue to violate citizens’ rights every day in this country.

If the police violated your rights, you could file a motion to suppress any evidence they obtained as a result. If the judge finds that your civil rights were transgressed, they may throw out critical evidence. If enough evidence is tossed, the state may have no option but to dismiss your case.

THE PROSECUTOR CAN’T PROVE POSSESSION

The prosecutor has the burden to prove you guilty of possession beyond a reasonable doubt. But proving possession means proving that you knew that the drugs were where they were found and that you had control over them. And you may have a defense to this allegation.

For instance, if you borrowed a friend’s car and the police found drugs in that car and charged you with possession — you could argue that the car did not belong to you and you had no knowledge that the drugs were even there.

THE PROSECUTOR CAN’T PROVE YOUR INTENT

Even if the prosecutor can easily show that you possessed marijuana, they still have to prove your intent if they are trying to charge you with a 10-year felony. But to get such a conviction, the state must prove intent. If you successfully argue that you never had the intent to distribute the drugs, you might successfully avoid felony penalties.

AGGRESSIVE PLEA BARGAINING

Aggressive plea negotiations might be the best option for you if the police have gathered strong evidence against you. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can look at the facts of your case and discern what leverage they have to negotiate with the prosecution.

With enough leverage and pressure, your attorney may be able to convince the prosecutor to reduce the charges or offer you probation instead of jail.

What Should You Do if You Have a Felony Marijuana Charge?

First, don’t speak to the police — ask for a lawyer right away. Then, you should call Wyoming marijuana felony defense lawyer Jeremy Hugus from Cowboy Country Law.

Jeremy and his team are ready to fight for you. He will use all of his experience, wisdom, and skill to give you the best shot at freedom. Contact him today at 307-333-7884 to get started on your best defense!

A felony record is very serious.

It can cause long-term consequences that can affect other parts of your life. For example, a felony conviction may limit your employment opportunities or prevent you from securing housing.

Fortunately, Wyoming has enacted laws that allow you to expunge or remove your felony record in certain circumstances.

Getting a felony expunged in Wyoming will open up new opportunities and provide you peace of mind and a better future moving forward.

Speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney who will help you understand your legal options.

WHAT DOES “EXPUNGE” MEAN?

Expungement is a court proceeding where a criminal record is destroyed or sealed from the state record. When a record is “expunged” it means that the court treats the criminal record as if it never existed. If a court expunges your felony record, you do not have to report it on certain job applications or when you apply for housing.

It is important to remember, however, that when a court expunges a record, this process removes it only from public records. Expunging a record makes it unavailable to employers, and it will no longer appear on a criminal background check for housing applications.

But expunging a record does not completely erase the conviction. Expunged criminal convictions may still be available in certain circumstances, such as criminal background checks by law enforcement agencies.

WYOMING EXPUNGEMENT

Wyoming law describes the requirements to expunge a felony from your record. Wyoming Statute § 7-13-1401 allows you to request expungement of a felony arrest record by filing a petition with the court. All felony arrest records are eligible for expungement and are less difficult to expunge than a felony conviction.

Wyoming also allows courts to expunge felony convictions. However, certain felony convictions are not eligible for expungement, including:

• Violent felonies such as murder, manslaughter, and first or second-degree sexual assault;
• Aggravated vehicular homicide;
• Providing drugs to a minor that results in death;
• Sexual assault;
• Child abuse; and
• Assault on a police officer.

It is important to remember that in Wyoming, even if a court expunges your felony record, you must still disclose your felony record for specific applications, including:

• Public employment applications,
• Professional licenses, and
• Gun permit applications.

Additionally, although your felony record will not be available for most routine background checks, law enforcement agencies can still access and view your expunged records. Further, an expunged record can be reversed by a court if you are charged with or convicted of another crime.

It can be complicated to determine if you are eligible for record expungement. You should speak with an experienced Wyoming criminal defense attorney to determine your eligibility.

HOW DO I GET MY FELONY ARREST RECORD EXPUNGED? 

If your felony arrest did not result in a conviction, that arrest record might still cause you problems in the future. You should seriously consider trying to expunge it from your record.

If your arrest record is expunged, you may act as though the arrest never occurred. For example, if an employment application asks about previous arrests, you are not required to disclose an expunged arrest record.

To successfully expunge your felony arrest record, you must meet the following requirements:

• At least 180 days must have passed from the date of the arrest;
• There must be no formal charges still pending when you file for expungement; and
• There must be no convictions related to the charges for the arrest.

If you meet the requirements listed above, you may file a petition with the court to expunge your felony arrest record. Petitions for expungement of felony arrest records do not require a filing fee.

The prosecuting attorney will review the petition. If the prosecutor files an objection to the petition, the court will set a hearing to resolve the matter.

If no objection is filed, the court must wait 20 days before issuing an order granting expungement.

HOW TO GET MY FELONY RECORD EXPUNGED IN WYOMING

Wyoming Statute § 7-13-1502 describes the requirements to have a felony conviction expunged.

• At least ten years must have passed since the date of the felony,
• The terms of the sentence must have expired,
• The person seeking expungement must have completed any court-ordered programs,
• The person must have paid any court-ordered restitution, and
• The person seeking expungement must not have previously pleaded guilty or no contest to or been convicted of another felony.

For a felony conviction, if you meet all of the requirements listed above and your conviction is eligible, you must file a petition with the court to have your conviction record expunged.

This process includes:

• Drafting and submitting a petition to the court,
• Providing notice to the prosecution and any affected parties,
• Paying a filing fee, and
• Attending a hearing and defending your petition if the prosecution or any victims of the crime file an objection.

Petitions to expunge a felony conviction are complicated and time-consuming. You should not try to navigate this process on your own.

A qualified Wyoming criminal defense attorney understands how the court procedure works, can file a petition on your behalf, and can defend you and argue for your petition during hearings. Hiring a skilled attorney will give you the best chance to expunge your record.

CONTACT A WYOMING CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY TODAY

The lawyers at Cowboy Country Law understand that your felony record can cause significant hardships, even long after you completed any court-ordered sentence. Your felony record should not continue to harm you indefinitely.

Our dedicated staff will review your record and discuss any available legal options. We care deeply about our clients and will provide you the support and advice you need.

We will make sure you have the best opportunity to get your felony record expunged. Call our offices at 307-333-7884 or fill out an online form today.

When you’ve been convicted of a crime, the sentencing judge generally has a few options to choose from.

In addition to prison time, the judge may consider a probationary sentence.

Probation is a form of in-community supervision that allows the defendant to remain at home while following a set of what can be fairly restrictive terms and conditions.

If you have been charged with violating your probation in Wyoming, you likely have a lot of questions about what you can expect in the coming weeks and months.

It is important to understand the consequences you may be facing as a result of violating probation.

Your best bet is to consult an attorney to develop a strong strategy for your case.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BREAK PROBATION?

If you have violated the terms of your probation, your probation officer will likely file a complaint against you.

You will then receive a summons to appear in court.

If the judge or hearing officer determines that it is more likely than not that you violated probation, the judge will then impose consequences for the violation.

As a consequence of violating probation, you may be sent to jail or be required to complete community service or undergo additional conditions of probation.

The court may even revoke your probation altogether and impose your original sentence, which could include prison time.

HOW LONG DO YOU HAVE TO SIT IN JAIL FOR A PROBATION VIOLATION?

The length of time you will be required to remain in jail following a probation violation depends on the facts of your case.

It is possible that the judge will reimpose the same prison sentence you would have received if you hadn’t been sentenced to probation instead.

Alternatively, the judge may order you to spend up to 30 days in jail or 60 days in a community correctional program.

WILL YOU GO TO JAIL FOR YOUR FIRST PROBATION VIOLATION?

If this is the first time you have violated the conditions of your probation, don’t panic.

If you haven’t already, contact your probation officer.

You may be able to avoid having to go to court to address the violation.

It is unlikely that you will serve jail time for a first violation, though the outcome depends on the specific circumstances of your case.

It is more likely that you will be reminded of the terms and conditions with which you agreed to comply and be given a grace period during which you can demonstrate your ability to do so.

HOW DO YOU BEAT A PROBATION VIOLATION?

Your best chance at beating a probation violation is to comply with the terms and conditions of your probation.

Though these terms can be expensive and time-consuming continued compliance with probation is the best way to avoid spending time in jail.

If you do violate your probation, you should contact your probation officer immediately.

A probation officer is more likely to be lenient in their recommendations to the judge if they feel you have tried to comply and have been communicative in the process.

If you receive a summons for a probation revocation hearing, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible.

An experienced criminal defense attorney will be able to help determine the best strategy for avoiding additional jail time.

If you are set for a probation revocation hearing, be sure to appear in court on time and prepare a statement for the judge recounting your attempts and successes on probation.

A judge is a person, after all, and maybe more lenient if you can show that you have good intentions.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED WYOMING PROBATION VIOLATION ATTORNEY

If you are facing the consequences of a probation violation, you need the help of an attorney.

Cowboy Country Law is a Casper-based law firm that has defended clients across Wyoming.

We defend individuals in court for all manner of criminal cases.

We will meet with you to discuss the facts of your probation violation, and help you get the best outcome for your case.

Contact us today so we can get to work protecting your rights.

Cowboy Country Law ATTORNEY ADDRESSES THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING DETAINED VS. ARRESTED

If a law enforcement officer pulled you over in Wyoming, searched your car, and placed you under arrest, you may wonder if the officer violated your rights.

Police officers have the authority to investigate crimes. However, they do not possess the power to detain you indefinitely without evidence.

You have the constitutional right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. Cowboy Country Law attorney Jeremy Hugus will fight hard to protect your rights.

As a highly experienced and successful criminal defense lawyer, Jeremy will review your case to see if the police violated your constitutional rights and work to develop the best defense strategy possible to help you win your case.

DETAINED VS. ARRESTED IN WYOMING EXPLAINED

Wyoming law recognizes three types of police encounters:

• Voluntary or consensual encounter;
• Investigatory detention (also called a “Terry stop”); and
• Formal arrest based on probable cause or arrest with a warrant.

A voluntary encounter means that the person was objectively free to leave. For example, if you walk up to a police officer to ask a question, the encounter is voluntary.

Similarly, if the police walk up to you and ask you a question, you are free to leave unless they have evidence that justifies their intrusion into your privacy.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE DETAINED?

Police can detain a person to investigate a violation of the law. The most common example is getting pulled over for a traffic violation.

In that situation, the officer can detain you to investigate the officer’s belief that a moving violation occurred.

A police officer needs evidence to detain a person. The evidence, under both the U.S. and Wyoming constitutions, is reasonable suspicion. If a police officer saw you run a stop sign, the officer has reasonable suspicion to stop you to give you a ticket for that infraction.

The police officer cannot detain you any longer than reasonably necessary to complete the investigation into the reason why the officer stopped you. The officer must let you be on your way once the officer finishes the traffic stop.

Good police officers understand that people often conceal contraband inside of a car. Therefore, the officer will ask questions of the driver to see if the story makes sense. You never have to answer those questions. Despite that right, many people decide to talk with the police.

The officer might ask for consent to search the car. The officer needs no reason at all to ask you if you consent to a car search. You have the right to say “no.”

Constitutional law allows police officers to detain a person longer if the officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that a crime is underway, was committed, or is about to be committed.

The officer cannot rely on just a hunch. Instead, the officer must have evidence to justify inquiring further. That could lead to a search of your car or your person.

WHEN ARE YOU ARRESTED VS. DETAINED IN WYOMING?

The difference between being detained vs. arrested is one of degree. A police officer must have either an arrest warrant or possess probable cause that you committed a crime to place you under formal arrest.

A formal arrest usually means the police put handcuffs on you, bring you back for booking and fingerprinting, read your Miranda rights, and file charges against you.

However,  a stop based on reasonable suspicion becomes an arrest without probable cause when the police detain you without enough evidence to justify their actions.

The police may have arrested you unlawfully if they:

• Detained you longer than necessary to complete their initial investigation;
• Used more force than required to protect themselves;
• Called for a large number of officers to assist with their investigation;
• Patted you down for weapons;
• Put you in handcuffs; or
• Put you in the patrol car.

The court will look at the “totality of the circumstances” to see if the police violated your rights by arresting you without probable cause. The judge may suppress all evidence seized against you, including any statements you made, if the police arrested you without probable cause.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU FEEL POLICE SHOULD HAVE DETAINED YOU VS. ARRESTED YOU IN WYOMING?

Cowboy Country Law lawyer Jeremy Hugus relies on his extensive courtroom experience when coming up with a winning defense strategy. With Jeremy by your side, you can rest assured knowing that he will fight aggressively to protect your rights if you were wrongly detained vs. arrested in Wyoming.

Call Jeremy and his team with Cowboy Country Law right away at 307-333-7884 to get your best defense.

Felony charges are very serious.

If you are convicted, you face not only possible time in prison, but you could also lose important civil rights like the right to vote or the ability to possess a firearm.

For many people, being convicted of a felony forever changes their lives.

At Cowboy Country Law, we represent people accused of a felony who don’t know what to do.

Some are worried that they can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer for felony charges.

Others think they might be able to handle their case on their own without any input from an attorney.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you. We are available to meet with you for a free consultation.

Unless you have some experience with getting arrested and going to jail, you might not understand the differences between bail vs. bond.

If you or someone close to you is currently in jail, you might be scrambling to get answers.

You might run internet searches asking, What is bail? Or you might search, How does bail work?

If so, you will likely find a variety of confusing and potentially contradictory information, yet few concrete answers.

To address these and other questions you might have, the criminal defense attorneys of Cowboy Country Law have put together some basic information about how to make bail. We will also explore how to get someone out of jail in Wyoming.

If you have questions about how bail works in Wyoming, contact our experienced team today to schedule a free consultation.

WHAT IS BAIL?

Upon arrest for a crime, the defendant appears before a judge. During this initial hearing, the court informs the defendant of the charges against them.

The court also informs the defendant of the potential penalties that they could face upon conviction. The judge then sets the amount of money that the defendant must pay to get out of jail. The law refers to this amount of money as bail. You must pay this amount to the court before you can be released.

The court holds your bail funds until such time as you resolve your case. Upon resolution, the court will release the money back to you, less any fines and court costs you owe.

If you can get your hands on the amount of money you need, the process is simple. If you do not have the funds available, you can explore the possibility of getting a bail bond.

WHAT IS A BAIL BOND?

Now that we have explored the concept of bail, we can get to the most pressing question at hand. What is the difference between bail vs. bond?

A bail bond, also known as an appearance bond, is a type of secured (surety) bond. This bond is essentially an insurance policy, assuring the court that the defendant will show up for their court date. To obtain a bail bond, you (or someone working on your behalf) must contact a bail bondsman.

Bail bondsmen are agents of federally registered surety companies. The bondsman, through the surety company, issues a bond to the court. This document ensures that the bondsman will post your full amount should you fail to appear in court.

In exchange for providing this assurance to the court, the bondsman charges you a fee. The typical fee is 10% of your bail amount. For example, say the judge sets your bail at $10,000.

In that case, you will likely have to pay the bail bondsman $1,000 in cash before they post your bond. This is a non-refundable fee. You might also have to pay some additional fees or costs for the bondsman’s services.

Typically, the bondsman will ask that you have a cosigner for the bond. They may even ask the cosigner to pledge an asset like their house or car as collateral.

If you fail to appear in court—known as skipping bail—the court will revoke your bail. The court will also issue a warrant for your arrest. If that happens, the cosigner must pay the full amount of your bail.

Otherwise, they must forfeit any pledged assets. You can also rest assured that the bondsman or their bounty hunter will come looking for you. Bondsmen and bounty hunters have the authority to apprehend you and return you to jail.

HOW DOES BAIL WORK IN WYOMING?

In Wyoming, posting bail works as described above once a judge sets your bail amount. However, there are some specific facts that you should know.

For example, the Wyoming bail statute states that unless the alleged crime potentially carries the death penalty, an arrested person may be admitted to bail. However, the amount of bail is at the judge’s discretion.

Wyoming law states that the courts must grant an arrested person an appearance before a judge without unnecessary delay.

The statute further states that if no judge is available at the time of arrest—and if the court has not established a bail schedule or has no authorized individual available to accept bail at that time—that person shall be released from custody upon receipt and acceptance of a written citation and promise to appear. This is known as a “citation release.”

In other words, if no one can get a judge to set bail, they must release you. If they do not release you, you can contact a criminal defense lawyer to help get you out of jail. Talking to a lawyer also makes sense because you face criminal charges.

HOW CAN A CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER HELP?

If you have been arrested in Wyoming, having the assistance of a criminal defense lawyer can be invaluable. You likely have many questions and concerns on your mind, the first of which might be, How does posting bail work in Wyoming?

A Wyoming criminal defense lawyer from Cowboy Country Law can answer your questions and help you determine your next steps. We explain the charges you’re facing—as well as any potential penalties—and help you explore your options.

Having a criminal conviction on your record can negatively affect every aspect of your life. You need someone who is willing and able to fight for you, your future, and your freedom.

Call us at 307-333-7884, or contact us online to let us put our experience to work for you!