If you’ve been arrested in Gillette, WY, on a Friday night, you want to know what happens next.
When will you get out? When will you see a judge? How much will your bond be? And do you need a lawyer right now, or can this wait until Monday?
Right now, the most important thing is knowing the process and avoiding mistakes that could make your situation difficult. Here’s what you can expect between your arrest and the next court appearance.
The Campbell County Detention Center
After your arrest, you may be transported to the Campbell County Detention Center at 600 W. Boxelder Road in Gillette. You will go through the booking process before you can be released. Booking involves:
- Fingerprints
- Photographs
- A medical screening
- An inventory of your personal belongings
Your phone, wallet, keys, and other property may be collected and stored while you are in custody.
If you were driving when you were arrested, your vehicle may also have been impounded. Whether that happens depends on the type of arrest and whether another licensed driver was available.
Booking can take time. Don’t panic if you are not immediately released or haven’t been able to make a call yet.
Be Careful What You Say on the Jail Phone
Once you are allowed to make a call, you may want to immediately explain what happened to your spouse, parent, friend, or someone else you trust. But don’t discuss the details of your case. Jail calls may be recorded. And those statements you make can potentially be used as evidence.
Use the call to communicate where you are, what you’re charged with, whether bond has been set, and whether someone needs to contact a criminal defense attorney for you.
Can You Get Out of Jail Before Monday?
Whether you can be released over the weekend depends on the charge and whether a bond amount has already been set.
For certain misdemeanor offenses, Wyoming’s bond schedule may allow you to post a predetermined bond without waiting for a judge. However, felony charges are different. A judge needs to address the bond. That means you can remain in custody until the court addresses your release.
Bond may involve cash, a surety bond through a bail bondsman, or release on your own recognizance, depending on the circumstances and the court’s decision.
When Will You See a Judge?
Wyoming law requires an initial appearance to be made “without unnecessary delay.” But it does not establish a rule saying that every person arrested must see a judge within exactly 24, 48, or 72 hours.
For a Friday-night arrest, you may remain in custody until the court addresses your case. At the initial appearance, the judge will advise you of the charges and your rights and address bond and conditions of release.
Should You Get a Lawyer Before Monday?
You do not have to wait until Monday to contact a criminal defense lawyer. They can explain your charges, help with the release conditions, and advise you about what to do while your case is pending.
If you are still in custody, your attorney may also be able to communicate with the jail and prepare for your next court appearance.
That does not mean a lawyer can get you released immediately or make the charges disappear. But getting legal advice early can help you avoid making a bad situation worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I be held before seeing a judge?
Wyoming requires an initial appearance “without unnecessary delay,” but there isn’t a 24- or 48-hour deadline that applies to every arrest.
Can I post bond before seeing a judge?
For certain misdemeanor charges, a bond schedule may allow you to post bond without appearing before a judge. Felony cases require judicial involvement in setting bond.
Can my bond be changed?
Bond and release conditions can be modified through the court. Your lawyer can explain whether requesting a change makes sense in your situation.
Arrested in Gillette? Call Just Criminal Law
If you’ve been arrested in Gillette, WY, what happens next? Fortunately, you may not have to spend the weekend trying to figure out Wyoming’s criminal justice system. Just Criminal Law is available 24/7 to help you with the next steps of your case.
As soon as you can, get legal help for your situation. Call Just Criminal Law for a confidential consultation and get answers about your arrest, even if it’s Friday night.
