Domestic Violence Attorney

Serving Wyoming & South Dakota

Domestic violence charges can rip a family apart. If you are facing charges for family violence, you may feel like you have nowhere to turn. At Just Criminal Law, we handle domestic violence cases in Wyoming and South Dakota. We understand the emotional nature of these charges. We can help you understand the case against you, the potential consequences, and the legal process. Then we can stand up for your rights by developing a defense designed around your personal needs and goals.

Call (307) 300-2240 to schedule a free case consultation today with a Wyoming domestic violence attorney today.

Domestic Violence Defense Experience

Family violence cases are sensitive for everyone involved. That is why it is essential to work with a lawyer who has experience in trying family violence cases. Our founder, Attorney Christina L. Williams, has years of experience as a criminal trial attorney. She has worked as both a prosecutor and defense attorney and has shared her experience with our domestic violence defense team so that we can best prepare to defend you and protect your family.

Types of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence takes many forms and encompasses a wide range of abusive behaviors under Wyoming and South Dakota law. These cases often involve more than just physical harm; they include emotional, psychological, and financial abuse as well. 

One of the most common types is partner or spousal abuse, where one partner attempts to exert power or control over the other through intimidation, threats, or physical violence. This can range from verbal threats to severe physical assaults, and the legal consequences are significant.

Elder abuse is another category of domestic violence. This occurs when seniors are subjected to physical harm, emotional manipulation, neglect, or even financial exploitation by a caregiver or family member. These cases are considered particularly egregious due to the vulnerability of the victims and the breach of trust involved.

There are also forms of domestic violence that involve siblings, extended family members, or household members. These can include physical altercations, harassment, or other threatening behaviors. 

Each act of domestic violence, regardless of the relationship between the parties involved, is treated seriously under the law, with penalties designed to prevent further harm and support victims’ safety. Addressing these charges requires a sound understanding of intricate legal definitions and applicable defenses.

Child Abuse

Cases of child abuse are extremely sensitive, and the lines between appropriate discipline and criminal abuse can sometimes seem thin and blurry. 

Any time a person is faced with child abuse charges, it raises many questions. 

Two questions are:

• Whether this was a case of corporal punishment
• Whether the injury was an accident

If you are facing child abuse charges, you need an experienced family violence attorney who can assess the nature of the evidence, and help you understand where you fall on the spectrum.

Domestic Violence Penalties in WY & SD

Domestic violence charges in Wyoming and South Dakota carry serious legal and personal consequences. Both states treat these offenses with severity, aiming to protect victims while holding offenders accountable. Penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the case, the severity of the act, and whether there are prior offenses.

In Wyoming, domestic violence convictions can lead to jail time, fines, mandatory counseling programs, or a combination of these. A first offense typically results in misdemeanor charges, which may include up to six months in jail and fines up to $750. However, repeated offenses or aggravating factors like significant injuries can lead to felony charges, carrying harsher penalties and long-term repercussions.

Similarly, South Dakota distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony domestic violence cases based on factors such as intent, injury, and the presence of any protective orders. A first-time misdemeanor conviction can lead to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Felony convictions, often tied to cases involving serious bodily harm or weapon use, incur far stricter penalties, including longer prison sentences.

Both states also provide avenues for protective orders and rehabilitation programs, reflecting their commitment to addressing domestic violence comprehensively. Being informed of potential penalties is vital for anyone navigating these legal challenges.

Cross-Examination in Family Violence Trials

In a domestic violence trial, emotions often run deep as family relationships are often involved. A skilled domestic violence defense attorney can carefully navigate cross-examination to minimize the potential impact on these important relationships. 

You need a family violence lawyer who can artfully and skillfully cross-examine the alleged victim. Through years of jury trial experience, Gillette, Wyoming domestic violence defense attorney Christina Williams has developed effective techniques that have been integral to successfully defending clients in domestic violence cases throughout Wyoming and South Dakota.

Get Help from Just Criminal Law

If you are accused of domestic assault or child abuse, get help from a criminal defense team who cares about your family’s needs. 

Call 307-686-6556 or contact us online to schedule your personalized case review and strategy session with a domestic violence lawyer in Gillette, WY, today. Our team is ready to meet with you so we can begin to build an effective defense strategy.

Spanish translation services are available upon request. Servicios de traducción en español disponibles.