Experienced Wyoming Drug Crime Defense Attorney
Comprehensive Legal Defense for Drug Charges in Cheyenne, Laramie, and Casper
Drug charges can bring down some intense legal heat on a defendant, possibly coming from both the state of Wyoming and the federal government. But intense legal heat can be managed when you have an experienced Wyoming drug lawyer in your corner. There are more viable defense strategies available than many defendants may realize.
A drug conviction will adversely affect your future. Unfortunately, the state of Wyoming and the federal government can bring drug charges for the same drug offense simultaneously without violating your constitutional right against double jeopardy. Hire a Wyoming drug attorney that has received numerous dismissals or other favorable rulings in drug cases in Wyoming.
Have you been charged with a drug crime in Wyoming? Call R. Michael Vang P.C. today at (307) 336-7570 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug attorney in Wyoming!
Understanding Wyoming's Drug Laws and Penalties
Wyoming has strict drug laws prohibiting the possession, sale, manufacture, and distribution of controlled substances. Unlawful possession of a controlled substance is considered a felony offense in the state and carries severe penalties.
Those accused of manufacturing and selling drugs can face up to 20 years in prison as well as heavy fines. Possession of 15 grams or more may lead to even harsher punishments. In addition, certain drugs are classified as open container violations by Wyoming law. Any person caught with a Schedule I or II drugs in an unsealed container is subject to immediate arrest.
Selling drugs within 1,000 feet of a school building or near public parks is also highly frowned upon and can result in enhanced sentences for the offender. It is essential for anyone facing a drug charge in Wyoming to promptly contact an experienced lawyer who understands the state’s drug laws and can help protect their rights during the proceedings.
Key Factors That Influence Drug Charges in Wyoming
Drug offenses involve several different factors, including, but not limited to:
Was the Initial Contact with Law Enforcement Lawful?
Under both the United States and Wyoming Constitutions, law enforcement must have a lawful basis to detain the accused, or the discovery of drugs during this detention should be suppressed. The lawfulness of the detention always involves a review of all the facts in the case, which are usually recorded by law enforcement.
What Kind of Drug was Involved?
The Wyoming Controlled Substances Act and Federal Controlled Substance Act have five different drug categories, with Schedule I drugs allegedly having no medical use. Marijuana is currently considered a Schedule I drug in Wyoming. Schedule II through V drugs can lawfully be prescribed and are commonly used at therapeutic levels to help people to be normal and do not cause impairment if taken as prescribed.
What was the Quantity of the Drug?
The possible jail sentence associated with a drug possession charge depends upon the weight and the quantity of the drug discovered during a search by law enforcement. Whether the law enforcement’s search for drugs was lawful is always an issue in a drug possession case.
What is the Defendant’s Previous Record?
Wyoming allows for harsher sentences for people that have been accused in the past of a drug possession offense. For first-time drug offenders, Wyoming Statute § 35-7-1037 enable a person to obtain a deferred prosecution to avoid having a drug conviction appear on their criminal record.
Secure Your Defense Now with a Skilled Wyoming Drug Crime Lawyer
Possible Defenses Against Drug Charges
Defendants have rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights—the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The best defense strategy will depend on the unique circumstances of each case, but the 4th Amendment often comes into play in drug cases.
Under the 4th Amendment, authorities must have a search warrant, probable cause, or consent from the defendant before conducting any search. This can include the search for a glove compartment. It might involve looking through a person’s computer or personal property for incriminating evidence. When authorities have not followed proper procedures in searching, all the evidence obtained is inadmissible in court—that is, a jury will not be allowed to see it.
Unlawful search and seizure is a grave violation of constitutional rights. It’s wrong to say this involves “getting off a technicality”. It’s more accurate to say that the very foundation of a free society means authorities have to be held accountable when they don’t follow procedure. And an experienced Wyoming drug attorney can make that accountability stick and protect their client.
Contact Our Wyoming Drug Attorney Today
R. Michael Vang P.C. has over 27 years of experience in criminal defense law, and his expertise is such that he teaches classes to other attorneys on how to conduct their defenses. That’s the kind of Wyoming drug lawyer defendants need in their corner—one who knows all the details and nuances of the law and then fights vigorously and unapologetically for their client's rights.
Contact R. Michael Vang P.C. today to schedule a FREE consultation with our drug lawyer in Wyoming!
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“Very professional and extremely knowledgeable in the field of DUIs. Thank you Michael for the outcome in my case.”
Fighting to Protect Your Rights
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Teaches Other Attorneys DUI Law
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Over 27 Years of Experience
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Initial Consultation is Always Free
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Specializes in Criminal & DUI Cases