Nobody wants to find themselves on the wrong side of the law. But if you get caught doing something illegal, just hope it’s a misdemeanor charge rather than a felony charge. Misdemeanors in Wyoming, like in most other states, are considered the middle level of offense, right between a serious felony charge and a minor infraction charge.
Classes for misdemeanors
Although you can be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor for a variety of crimes, the specific classification will determine the severity of your sentence or fines if you are found guilty.
Misdemeanors in Wyoming are classified into three types: Class A, Class B, and Class C. A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious category, punishable by up to a year in jail. If you are convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, you may face a few months in jail as well as community service.
A Class C misdemeanor may result in a fine and probation. The judge hearing your case will decide all of this. Many factors will be considered, including your age at the time of the crime, whether or not anyone was injured, and the amount of property damage or loss.
Wyoming’s most common misdemeanors
Petty thefts, such as shoplifting, and breaking and entering into homes, cars, or apartments, are examples of misdemeanor crimes in Wyoming. A simple assault that does not result in serious injuries, drunk driving, or driving under the influence can all be charged as misdemeanors.
If you are caught trespassing, vandalizing, causing a public disturbance, or being publicly intoxicated, you may be charged with a misdemeanor. Certain battery offenses are also classified as misdemeanors. You will be arrested for the crime, and the district attorney’s office will decide how you will be charged.
Overcharging
Depending on the circumstances, you may find yourself charged with the highest level of misdemeanor, the Class A. You could plead guilty to a lesser Class B charge instead of going to trial. These types of deals occur in courtrooms across the country on a daily basis, and an experienced criminal defense lawyer will know the best course of action for your specific charges.
Expungement
If you have an arrest record or a misdemeanor conviction in Wyoming, you may be able to have it expunged. If your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, your chances of having your record expunged skyrocket.
However, if you were convicted of the charge, you will only be able to have your record expunged if it was your first offense and you did not use a firearm in the commission of the crime. According to Wyoming law, you must petition all parties involved in the crime as part of the expungement application.