Wyoming Habitual Offender Laws

Wyoming’s “habitual offender” law, or “three strikes” law, imposes more severe penalties on people convicted of multiple crimes. Someone with two or more prior felony convictions who is convicted of a third felony for a violent crime faces a minimum of ten years up to a maximum sentence of life in prison.

If you are facing criminal charges in Wyoming and have a prior criminal record, you need experienced and aggressive legal representation. The criminal defense team at Just Criminal Law is dedicated to vigorously defending people facing criminal charges. We will protect your rights, provide legal advice based on our years of criminal defense and prosecutorial experience, and aggressively represent you in court.

Just Criminal Law is led by founding attorney and former Campbell County prosecutor Christina L. Williams. Her team is made up of former prosecutors and other professionals with prior experience working in the Campbell County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies. We understand the criminal legal system from the inside out and will work to obtain optimal results in your case. Contact Just Criminal Law today to learn more and begin preparing your defense.

Enhanced Penalties Under Wyoming’s “Habitual Criminal” Statute

Under Wyoming Statute §6-10-201, a person is a “habitual criminal” if they are convicted of a violent felony and have two or more prior felony convictions that arose out of separate occurrences.

A habitual offender with two prior convictions in Wyoming or any other state faces a minimum of ten years up to a maximum of 50 years in prison. A habitual offender with three or more prior convictions faces a sentence of life in prison.

Defending a “Habitual Criminal”

Defending someone facing enhanced penalties under Wyoming’s habitual offender law presents unique challenges that require a sophisticated approach by a talented and experienced criminal defense team.

Challenging the Classification as a Habitual Offender

Our team will review your prior convictions to assess whether any of them can be challenged as prior offenses under Wyoming’s habitual offender statute. We will also analyze the current charges to determine whether you are being correctly classified as a “habitual offender.”

Negotiating a Plea Deal

Our legal representation almost always includes discussion of a possible plea bargain. When we meet with the prosecutor, we will address the possibility of reduced charges or an agreement that avoids you being sentenced as a habitual offender. We will also explore alternative sentences that can help you avoid the harshest penalties under Wyoming’s habitual offender statute.

Presenting Mitigating Circumstances

In pre-trial discussions with the prosecutor and judge, we will highlight mitigating factors such as addiction, mental health issues, or socio-economic hardship that may have contributed to your being charged with a crime. We will also emphasize any steps you took towards rehabilitation, such as counseling, drug treatment programs, and gainful employment, which can demonstrate your commitment to change.

Challenging the Evidence

We will carefully analyze the evidence to challenge its admissibility and sufficiency. We will file Motions to Suppress Evidence and try to weaken the prosecution’s case by excluding evidence that was illegally obtained or that would unduly prejudice your case.

Special Considerations in a Jury Trial

If your case is headed for trial, our defense team will work to present you, your case, and your prior convictions in a sympathetic light. Every situation is unique, and we will work to emphasize your humanity to members of the jury. We will explain your life circumstances and how they led to your being convicted of multiple crimes.

Options for Post-Conviction Relief

If you are convicted despite our best efforts, we will explore your options for appeal, argue for a reduced sentence, and highlight your efforts at rehabilitation while you were in jail.

We will also ask the judge to use their discretion at sentencing, emphasizing that the punishment should fit the crime rather than automatically triggering an enhanced sentence due to prior convictions.

Just Criminal Law: A Sophisticated Approach to Defending People Charged Under Wyoming’s Habitual Offender Statute

Defending someone facing enhanced penalties under Wyoming’s habitual offender law requires a specialized, multi-faceted approach. The criminal defense team at Just Criminal Law combines legal expertise, skilled negotiation, and a deep understanding of our client’s personal history to achieve superior outcomes.

Contact Just Criminal Law Today

When your freedom is on the line, don’t leave it to chance. Contact Just Criminal Law today to schedule your free and confidential personalized case review and strategy session.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article is offered for educational purposes only. This information is not offered as legal advice. A person accused of a crime should always consult with an attorney before making decisions that have legal consequences.