Wyoming Concealed Weapon Charges

On March 2, 2011, Wyoming Governor Matt Mead signed the Jennings-Jaggi Constitutional Bill into law. As of July 1, 2011, Wyoming is the fourth state in the nation to allow residents to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. Until that time, Wyoming remains a “shall-issue” state, which means a concealed carry permit will be issued to residents who meet the list of requirements. Applicants can apply through the local sheriff’s office and must submit proof of firearms proficiency by a certified instructor. Permits are valid for a period of 5 years from the issuance date.

Wyoming's Concealed Weapon Laws

Wyoming has some of the least restrictive gun control laws. Residents are allowed to carry a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle as long as it’s not concealed. A concealed firearm can be carried into a restaurant that serves alcohol but not in the bar area. People who have valid concealed carry permits are prohibited from taking their handguns into the following areas:

• Any facility used for law enforcement administration or operations (unless written consent is given by the chief administrator)
• Any jail, prison or detention facility
• Any courtroom (Judges are not precluded from carrying concealed with a permit in their courtroom.)
• Any place where a government meeting is underway
• Any place where the legislature or committee is meeting
• Any establishment that primarily serves alcohol on the premises for consumption
• Any place where people assemble for worship (unless written consent is given by the chief administrator)
• Any elementary or secondary school
• Any school, college or professional athletic event that is not related to firearms
• Any college or university (unless written consent is given by the security service of the facility)
• Any place where federal laws prohibit firearms

Even after the new laws become effective in July 2011, carrying a concealed firearm into any of the above places will still be prohibited.

Wyoming's Penalties for Weapon Violations

Felony crimes are not categorized into different classes, and Wyoming defines a felony as any offense punishable by a year or more in prison. It is legal to openly carry a firearm in Wyoming, but there are some penalties for weapon offenses, listed below.

Plea Options in Wyoming

Criminal defendants who are charged with misdemeanors will be arraigned within 72 hours of arrest. During this hearing, the judge will read the criminal charges against you and ask how you plead. Your options are as follows:

• Guilty to the Charges—Never plead guilty until speaking with qualified legal counsel.
• Not Guilty—Unless you waive your right to a speedy trial, the trial must be held within 6 months of your arraignment.
• No Contest—This is sometimes referred to in Latin as a plea of "nolo contendere," which means you do not contest the charges. You don’t admit guilt but accept the punishment for the crime.

Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney

A criminal defense attorney’s job is to examine the evidence against you to determine if it’s admissible in court. Any evidence obtained through a violation of the U.S. Constitution may be suppressed. If you have been charged with a crime, seek the assistance of a seasoned criminal defense attorney who will work hard to defend your rights.