Wyoming’s Experienced Felony & Misdemeanor Lawyer 

Wyoming structures its felony charges differently than most states. Rather than grouping crimes into broad class tiers, Wyoming takes each individual offense (murder, assault, theft) and assigns sentencing guidelines by degree within that specific crime. The result is a system where the charge type and degree together determine the sentencing exposure, and where experienced legal counsel can make a significant difference in how a case is resolved.

Sentencing Range & Common Felony Charges

Felony convictions carry a minimum sentence of one year in prison. At the far end of the spectrum, Wyoming authorizes the death penalty for first-degree murder. Certain sexual assault convictions can result in sentences of up to 50 years. Burglary and assault tried as felonies can mean at least 10 years in prison. Theft of property valued above $1,000 crosses the felony threshold.

Common felony charges in Wyoming include:

• Theft involving $1,000 or more
• Drug sales
• Possession of marijuana above 3 ounces
• Crimes involving weapons
• Assault causing injury

What Happens After a Felony Charge in Wyoming

Felony cases begin in Circuit Court with an initial appearance. A defendant who is incarcerated has the right to a preliminary hearing within 10 days. One released on bond has that right within 20 days. At the preliminary hearing, the judge determines whether sufficient probable cause exists to transfer the case to District Court. Charges can be dismissed or reduced at this stage. That’s one reason early representation from an experienced felony defense attorney in Wyoming matters.

The consequences of a felony conviction extend well beyond incarceration. A conviction can result in the loss of the right to possess or own firearms, the right to vote, and the right to hold public office. Convicted felons are required to submit to DNA testing. Beyond those direct penalties, a felony record can affect housing, employment, professional licensing, and immigration status. These collateral consequences make the quality of felony criminal defense in Wyoming a decision with lifelong implications.

Get the Lawyer Who Teaches Other Lawyers

Attorney R. Michael Vang has spent more than 28 years in criminal defense. For more than 25 of those years, he has also taught other criminal defense attorneys how to do this work. He’s licensed to practice in all state and federal courts in Wyoming, the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.

Mr. Vang has litigated more than 100 criminal jury trials and has handled charges as serious as attempted first-degree murder, aggravated vehicular homicide, and first-degree arson. That depth of trial experience is what separates a felony lawyer in Wyoming who is ready for District Court from one who isn’t. Across both felony and misdemeanor cases, he has obtained numerous acquittals and pre-trial dismissals for his clients.

If you’re facing felony or misdemeanor charges in Wyoming, contact R. Michael Vang P.C. for a free consultation. Call (307) 336-7570 or reach out online. The firm serves clients in Laramie and throughout Wyoming.