Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Wyoming treats driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWUI) as serious offenses. The state uses BAC based per se limits and adds penalties for repeat offenses and aggravated circumstances. If you face a DUI or DWUI charge, understanding the Wyoming landscape helps you make informed decisions and protect your rights.
Key features include state statutes governing BAC limits, license suspensions, testing requirements, and ignition interlock rules. Administrative processes often run alongside courtroom proceedings, so timely legal advice matters. This guide provides a clear overview and practical steps to navigate a DUI or DWUI matter in Wyoming.
Sources for Wyoming DUI law and procedures include the Wyoming Statutes, the Wyoming Department of Transportation, and federal guidance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Wyoming Statutes - Title 31, Chapter 6 (DUI and DWUI) provide the statutory framework. Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) offers licensing and testing guidance. NHTSA provides federal context and state comparisons.
Facing a DUI or DWUI charge in Wyoming can carry significant consequences beyond fines. A qualified solicitor can analyze the evidence, identify defenses, and protect your licensing and driving rights.
The driving under the influence and driving while intoxicated provisions are codified in Title 31, Chapter 6 of the Wyoming Statutes. These sections cover prohibited conduct, collected BAC thresholds, penalties, license actions, and related procedures. The general framework includes per se BAC limits, enhanced penalties for repeat offenses, and requirements tied to driving privileges.
In Wyoming, the general per se limit for adults is 0.08 percent BAC, with more stringent limits applying to commercial drivers and some other categories. Penalties may include fines, jail time, license suspensions, and court-ordered treatment or probation. The exact penalties depend on the offense level and any aggravating factors.
Source: Wyoming Statutes and state summaries provide the statutory structure for DUI and DWUI in the state. Wyoming Statutes - Title 31.
Wyoming operates an implied consent regime requiring chemical testing if you are lawfully detained on suspicion of DUI. Refusal to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test can lead to a license suspension separate from any criminal case. The decision to test and the consequences of refusal are governed by state law and administrative rules.
These rules are designed to support enforcement while balancing the rights of drivers. A lawyer can determine whether testing procedures were compliant and whether any administrative actions can be challenged or mitigated.
Source: Wyoming implied consent framework referenced in official statutes and state guidance. Wyoming Statutes.
Many DUI and DWUI cases in Wyoming involve ignition interlock requirements as a condition for license reinstatement or continued driving privileges. An interlock device prevents vehicle operation if alcohol is detected. The duration and specifics of IID requirements depend on offense severity, prior records, and court orders.
Understanding whether you will need an ignition interlock, and for how long, can affect your job, transportation, and rehabilitation plans. Legal counsel can help you plan for IID installation, maintenance, and compliance timelines.
Source: official guidance on interlock programs tied to state licensing and enforcement programs. WYDOT.
DUI in Wyoming is driving with a blood alcohol concentration above the state limit or while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The offense is a criminal charge that can involve impaired driving regardless of the exact BAC level.
DWUI stands for Driving While Impaired or Driving While Intoxicated. It is a broader term that includes driving with impairment even if BAC is below the per se limit. The distinction can affect penalties and defenses.
The general limit for adults 21 and older is 0.08 percent BAC. For commercial drivers, the limit is typically 0.04 percent. Drivers under 21 may face stricter limits such as 0.02 percent in some circumstances.
Timeline varies with case complexity, court calendars, and plea negotiations. A typical process can span several weeks to several months, including arraignment, pretrial motions, and potential trial.
Yes. A lawyer can evaluate testing quality, challenge evidence, handle court appearances, and negotiate with prosecutors. Representation is strongly advised at all critical stages.
Costs vary by case complexity, attorney experience, and regional rates. Typical ranges include consultation fees plus hourly rates or flat fees for certain stages of the case.
Refusal has consequences but is not an automatic conviction. A lawyer can review whether your rights were properly advised and whether the refusal should be part of the defense strategy.
The decision depends on the evidence, potential defenses, and penalties. An attorney can explain risks and help you weigh options including negotiation for reduced charges or diversion programs.
Yes. A DUI with injury carries enhanced penalties and additional charges. The presence of injury or property damage typically changes the landscape of the case and the potential remedies.
Arrest on a DUI charge often triggers an administrative license suspension. A lawyer can address the timing and scope of any suspension and pursue remedies if possible.
Possibly. Wyoming allows certain exceptions for driving to work, school, or medical appointments after a suspension. A lawyer can guide you through the application and evidence required.
A private attorney represents you at your own expense and can tailor defense strategies. A public defender serves indigent clients but may have heavier caseloads and limited availability.
Wyoming enforces a BAC limit of 0.08 percent for drivers 21 and older; commercial drivers face 0.04 percent, and under-21 limits can be stricter. Testing and license actions are governed by implied consent laws and administrative rules.
Source notes: state statutes and federal guidance from NHTSA and official Wyoming government sites.
