Drug Crime Defense Attorney

Facing Drug Charges in Wyoming and South Dakota?

Drug charges can be a wake-up call that you weren't expecting. When you have been accused of a drug crime, you may be reasonably concerned about how a conviction will affect your reputation or profession, and whether you will be facing jail or prison, fines and costs, or probation. That's why, as soon as you think the police may be investigating, you should contact the experienced drug crime defense team at Just Criminal Law. We handle drug crimes on a regular basis and will help guide you through the legal process.

Attorney Christina L. Williams and her team know what it takes to beat a drug charge. In defending your case, we will take aggressive action to fully investigate your case, develop defenses, and take your drug charges to trial if necessary.

We represent clients accused of all drug-related crimes, including but not limited to:

• Possession of marijuana, methamphetamine and illegal possession of prescription drugs
• Possession with intent to deliver
• Drug manufacturing or cultivation
• Drug trafficking
• Drug crimes involving firearms
• DUI charges involving controlled substances

To schedule an initial case evaluation with our Gillette drug crime attorneys, contact us today at (307) 300-2240.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Wyoming

Wyoming enforces strict drug laws, even for seemingly minor offenses. Penalties can vary based on the substance, amount, and whether there was intent to distribute.

• Simple Possession (First Offense): Up to 12 months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine for small amounts of controlled substances like marijuana.
• Felony Possession: Possessing larger amounts or repeat offenses may lead to felony charges, with up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000 or more.
• Distribution or Trafficking: Penalties range from 5 to 20 years in prison, depending on the quantity and type of drug, and may involve federal prosecution.
• Drug-Free Zones: Offenses committed near schools, parks, or public housing may result in enhanced penalties.

Wyoming does not have a medical marijuana program, and marijuana possession remains illegal except for limited low-THC CBD use.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in South Dakota

South Dakota’s drug laws are among the toughest in the nation. Even marijuana possession is treated harshly, and any drug offense can lead to significant legal consequences.

• Simple Possession: Possession of any controlled substance (including small amounts of marijuana) is considered a Class 5 or Class 6 felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Distribution or Trafficking: These offenses can lead to 10 to 25 years in prison, depending on the drug type and amount. Prior convictions can also increase sentencing severity.
• Ingestion of a Controlled Substance: Unlike many states, South Dakota criminalizes the act of ingesting illegal substances, even if no drugs are found in possession. This is treated as a felony.

South Dakota does not have legalized medical or recreational marijuana, and even possession of paraphernalia is a criminal offense.

Legal Defense to Drug Crimes

At Just Criminal Law, we tailor your defense to the unique circumstances of your case. Some of the most common and effective legal strategies we use include:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a traffic stop, home search, or arrest, evidence may be suppressed.
• Lack of Possession or Knowledge: You may not have known about the drugs, or they may not have been yours—especially in shared vehicles or living spaces.
• Entrapment: In cases involving undercover officers or informants, we explore whether law enforcement improperly induced you into committing the crime.
• Lab Testing Errors or Chain of Custody Issues: We scrutinize the handling of drug evidence to ensure accuracy and challenge any procedural missteps.
• Diversion or Rehabilitation Programs: In some cases, first-time offenders may be eligible for drug courts, deferred prosecution, or diversion programs to avoid jail time.

FAQs About Drug Charges in Wyoming and South Dakota

What should I do if I’m arrested for a drug crime in Wyoming or South Dakota?

Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with law enforcement without an attorney present.

Can I be charged for drugs that aren’t mine?

Yes, if drugs are found in your car or home, prosecutors may charge you based on “constructive possession.” We can fight to prove lack of knowledge or control.

Are drug charges in South Dakota always felonies?

Most are. Even first-time possession of small quantities can be classified as a felony, unlike in other states.

Will a drug conviction affect my future?

Yes. A conviction can result in jail time, loss of employment, difficulty finding housing, and ineligibility for some licenses or federal aid.

Can I get a drug charge expunged?

Possibly. Expungement eligibility varies by state and offense. We can evaluate your record and advise on the best path forward.

Starting Before the Charges are Filed

Drug crime investigations can sometimes start days, weeks, or even months before the charges are ever filed. Things you say or do during that time can strengthen or weaken your defense. Our criminal defense team can come alongside you even before the police have decided to charge you. We will fight to protect your rights so that nothing you say or do can be used against you later on.

Taking Drug Crimes to Trial

A trial on a drug crime is one part testimony and one part lab results. Having a drug crime defense attorney who knows the science behind the drug tests will give you a stronger defense. Our criminal defense team will review the specifics of every drug analysis to look for procedural irregularities and constitutional rights violations. When we find them, we will fight to use them to your advantage or exclude that evidence from the trial.

The Experience of a Former Prosecutor

When you are facing complex charges for a drug crime, it is important that your lawyer has a view of the big picture. You need someone who can look at your case from all angles, and develop the strongest defenses to get you a fair outcome. Drug crime defense attorney Christina L. Williams has taken on drug crime cases as a prosecutor and a defense attorney. She knows what to expect from the other side. She will help you objectively assess the strengths of your case and any defenses so that you can make an informed decision on how best to proceed.

How We Help

It is never too early to contact a drug crime defense attorney. Our team wants to get to know you and help you protect your rights. We are happy to travel to represent people facing drug charges in Wyoming and South Dakota. It all starts by scheduling your personalized case review and strategy session with our dedicated client care specialist today. 

Call our office in Gillette, Wyoming at (307) 300-2240 or contact us online to reserve a time today. 

Credit cards are accepted. Servicios de traducción en español disponibles.