blog home Drug Crimes How to Fight a Drug Possession Charge in Gillette

How to Fight a Drug Possession Charge in Gillette

By Steven Titus & Associates, P.C. on July 27, 2025

Getting arrested for drug possession can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unfamiliar with your rights or the legal system in Wyoming.

Whether you were caught with marijuana, prescription medication, or another controlled substance, it’s important to understand that a charge does not equal a conviction.

At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., our experienced trial attorney knows the ins and outs of Wyoming’s criminal justice system. We build thorough defenses that stand up in court. We know that with the right legal strategy, you can protect your future and avoid the harsh consequences of a drug conviction.

Understanding Wyoming’s Controlled Substance Laws

Wyoming law classifies controlled substances into five schedules, with Schedule I drugs considered the most dangerous and least medically useful and Schedule V being the least dangerous.

These schedules include substances like:

• Schedule I: Heroin, LSD, MDMA
• Schedule II: Cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone
• Schedule III-IV: Anabolic steroids, benzodiazepines
• Schedule V: Low-dose codeine preparations

Possession of any of these substances without a valid prescription is illegal. However, the penalties vary based on the type of drug, the quantity, and whether there is evidence suggesting an intent to distribute.

Drug Possession Charges in Wyoming

Marijuana Possession (WY)

Although many states have legalized marijuana, marijuana possession in Wyoming is still a criminal offense. Even small amounts can result in a misdemeanor charge, while possession of larger quantities can lead to felony charges.

• <3 oz (personal use): Misdemeanor, up to 12 months in jail, and a fine of $1,000
• >3 oz or with intent to distribute: Felony, up to 5 years in prison

Prescription Drug Arrests (WY)

Having prescription medication like Adderall, Xanax, or OxyContin without a valid prescription is treated just like street drug possession. In many cases, these situations involve misunderstandings or a failure to renew a prescription—yet the law is strict.

• Possession without prescription = Misdemeanor or felony
• Intent to distribute (e.g., sharing pills with a friend) = Felony

Felony Drug Charges (Campbell County)

Felony drug charges carry steep penalties, often including mandatory prison time, hefty fines, and long-term consequences like the loss of voting rights or firearm privileges. These charges may involve:

• Possession of large quantities
• Intent to deliver or distribute
• Repeat offenses
• Possession near schools or public parks

Legal Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges

Just because you were arrested doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted. There are multiple defenses available depending on the specifics of your case. A drug possession lawyer in Gillette, Wyoming, can examine the facts and build a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

Illegal Search and Seizure

One of the most powerful defenses in drug possession cases is proving that law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights. If police searched your home, car, or person without a valid warrant, probable cause, or consent, any evidence they obtained may be thrown out.

Example scenarios include:

• Being pulled over without reasonable suspicion
• A vehicle search without consent or a warrant
• A home search conducted without a warrant or valid exception

If the search was unconstitutional, your charges could be reduced or dismissed entirely.

Lack of Possession

In many cases, prosecutors must prove that the drugs were knowingly in your possession. This can be tricky in situations where:

• Drugs were found in a shared space (e.g., a car with multiple passengers)
• You were unaware the drugs were present
• The drugs were planted

If your attorney can show that the drugs did not belong to you or that you had no knowledge of them, you could avoid a conviction.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement coerces or tricks someone into committing a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Undercover drug operations, while legal, must follow certain rules. If an officer pressures you into obtaining or holding drugs, this may be a viable defense.

Valid Prescription

If you were arrested for possessing a controlled medication, providing a valid, up-to-date prescription can serve as a strong defense. Even if the prescription wasn’t on you at the time, having proper documentation can prevent a conviction for a Wyoming prescription drug arrest.

Lack of Intent to Distribute

Possessing drugs doesn’t necessarily mean you intended to sell them. Prosecutors often try to upgrade simple possession to a more serious intent to distribute charge based on factors like:

• Number of baggies
• Scales or paraphernalia
• Text messages or digital communication

A skilled attorney can argue that these items do not constitute proof of distribution. For example, many people buy in bulk for personal use or keep old items that aren’t being used for illegal activity.

Consequences of a Drug Conviction

If convicted, you may face:

• Jail or prison time
• Heavy fines
• Probation
• Mandatory drug treatment
• A permanent criminal record
• Driver’s license suspension
• Ineligibility for student loans or professional licenses

More importantly, a drug conviction can follow you for life, affecting employment, housing, and your personal reputation. That’s why it’s critical to get legal help as soon as possible.

Why You Need a Gillette Drug Possession Defense Lawyer

Drug charges can be complex and intimidating. At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., we treat each case with the seriousness it deserves.

Unlike firms that just look for a plea deal, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. That preparation gives our clients the edge they need in court.

What sets our law firm apart:

• Deep knowledge of Wyoming controlled substance laws
• Experience handling cases across Gillette and Campbell County
• A thorough and aggressive approach to every defense
• Clear, honest communication from day one
• A proven record of courtroom wins

Whether you’ve been charged with marijuana possession in Wyoming, caught with prescription medication, or are facing felony drug charges in Campbell County, we’re ready to stand by your side and fight.

Speak With an Experienced Trial Lawyer in Gillette

If you’ve been charged with drug possession, the worst thing you can do is wait. The earlier you involve a Gillette drug crime defense attorney, the more opportunities we have to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for trial.

At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., we will walk you through your options and create a defense strategy tailored to your case. Call (307) 257-7800 today for a free, confidential consultation.