Strangulation Lawyer

Defending Clients Across Wyoming and South Dakota

If you’ve been accused of strangulation during a domestic incident, you’re facing more than just a serious allegation. You’re facing the full weight of a felony prosecution. In Wyoming, strangulation is charged as a violent offense, and even cases with little or no visible injury can lead to prison time, loss of gun rights, and a lifelong criminal record. These charges also move fast, often with protective orders, restrictions on contact, and real consequences before you ever step foot in a courtroom.

That’s why it’s critical to act early.

At Just Criminal Law, we know what’s at stake when the government files felony charges. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand the pressure tactics the state uses, and how to push back. We focus on building strategic defenses that expose the flaws in their case, protect your rights, and fight for the best outcome possible.

Why Clients Turn to Just Criminal Law for Serious Felony Defense

• Former prosecutors with decades of combined legal experience
• Serving clients throughout Wyoming and South Dakota, including rural areas
• Flat fee billing — no surprises, no hourly games
• Clear communication and committed legal support
• Spanish-speaking services available upon request

Attorney Spotlight: Josh Taylor

Josh Taylor is a former prosecutor with a sharp legal mind and a strong commitment to client advocacy. He approaches each case with careful preparation, a deep respect for constitutional rights, and a drive to challenge the government’s narrative at every turn. Today, he brings that experience to the defense side helping people facing serious charges navigate an often unforgiving legal system.

Here’s what clients say after working with Josh:

“My experience with the firm was absolutely wonderful, all the staff there very caring and very hard working.”

“My attorney Joshua was amazing. He went above and beyond for me and I truly felt like he had my best interest.” – Former Client

“Highly recommend Just Criminal Law to anyone in need of a trustworthy and skilled attorney.”

“I had an excellent experience working with Josh Taylor on my case. From the very beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my situation.” – Former Client

Call (307) 300-2240 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. We serve clients across Wyoming and South Dakota and travel up to 120 miles from our office in Gillette.

Understanding Strangulation Charges in Wyoming

Under W.S. § 6-2-509, strangulation of a household member is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors may charge someone with strangulation when they believe a person knowingly or intentionally impeded another person’s normal breathing or circulation by:

• Applying pressure to the neck or throat, or
• Blocking the person’s nose or mouth

Importantly, Wyoming law defines this offense specifically in the context of domestic or household relationships, which may include current or former spouses, partners, roommates, or co-parents. As a result, strangulation is often charged alongside, or instead of, domestic battery.

Many of these cases stem from emotionally charged moments. Unfortunately, that emotion can also influence how police officers investigate and how prosecutors choose to charge, sometimes without the full story.

What Makes Strangulation Charges So Serious?

Strangulation is one of the most aggressively prosecuted forms of domestic violence. That’s because it’s widely associated with an increased risk of future violence, even when the alleged victim does not suffer visible injuries. In many cases, no bruising or marks are required for the state to file charges.

Once a strangulation charge is filed:

• The case becomes a felony criminal matter, regardless of whether the alleged victim wants to “drop charges”
• You may face a no-contact order with your spouse or children
• You could lose your right to possess firearms under state or federal law
• A conviction creates a permanent felony record, affecting employment, custody, and more

These are not the types of charges that typically go away on their own. Prosecutors may proceed even without cooperation from the alleged victim. That’s why early legal representation is essential.

Penalties for Strangulation in Wyoming

If convicted under W.S. § 6-2-509, penalties may include:

• Up to 10 years in state prison
• Loss of gun rights under federal law (Lautenberg Amendment)
• No-contact or protection orders, including with family or children
• Mandatory counseling or domestic violence treatment
• Loss of employment, particularly for those in law enforcement, healthcare, or licensed professions

If you have a prior conviction for domestic violence, prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties or charge you as a habitual offender, which can drastically increase prison time.

Possible Defenses to Strangulation Charges

Every case is fact-specific and many turn on a single person’s statement, often made during moments of fear, anger, or confusion. At Just Criminal Law, we conduct a full independent review of the evidence, including:

• Bodycam footage
• 911 recordings
• Medical records or lack of visible injury
• Statements made by the alleged victim, especially inconsistencies
• Physical evidence or photos
• Prior history of the parties involved

We also explore defenses such as:

• False or exaggerated accusations
• Lack of intent or accidental contact
• Self-defense or mutual combat
• Insufficient evidence / no physical signs, no corroboration

In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate reduced charges or alternative resolutions such as counseling, probation, or deferred adjudication, especially for first-time offenders.

How Just Criminal Law Can Help

Strangulation charges are serious, but you are not powerless. At Just Criminal Law, we know how the system works because we used to work inside it. We know when charges are overblown, when evidence doesn’t support the allegations, and how to fight for a resolution that protects your future.

By approaching every case with preparation, strategy, and a willingness to challenge the prosecution at every stage, we’ve helped clients fight serious charges and protect their futures. 

Speak With a Wyoming Strangulation Defense Lawyer Today

Strangulation charges carry high stakes, including prison time, a felony record, and lifelong consequences. If you’ve been accused, don’t wait for the system to make the next move. Let our team step in and start building your defense.

Call (307) 300-2240 or contact us online for a free and confidential case review.