Yellowstone National Park Criminal Defense Attorney
Luebeck, Hammar, McCarty & Goldwarg
Charged With a Crime in Yellowstone? You’re Not Alone.
Each year, visitors from across the country and around the world are charged with federal offenses in Yellowstone National Park. Whether you’re a Bozeman local, a Montana State University student, or one of millions of Yellowstone visitors, facing criminal charges in a national park can feel overwhelming. It gets even more complicated when you realize that Yellowstone charges are handled under federal law, not Montana or Wyoming state law.
At Luebeck, Hammar, McCarty & Goldwarg (LHMG), our attorneys help clients resolve Yellowstone National Park charges quickly, respectfully, and often without needing to return to Montana. We understand the legal system and the stress you’re under. We’re here to help.
FAQ’s About Yellowstone Criminal Charges
- Do I Need a Lawyer for my Yellowstone National Park Charge?
- What Do I Do If I Was Charged in Yellowstone?
- Does Federal or State Law Apply in Yellowstone?
- What Are Common Charges in Yellowstone?
- What are My Legal Rights If I am Charged in Yellowstone?
- What Happens After I’ve Been Charged?
- Why Is LHMG The Best Firm to Handle My Case?
- What’s at Stake With a Federal Conviction?
Do I Need a Lawyer for my Yellowstone National Park Charge?
Not every Yellowstone charge requires a court appearance. But many do. Charges involving DUI, drug possession, or wildlife violations are federal offenses that typically require you to appear before a federal magistrate judge in Mammoth Hot Springs. Your Violation Notice (ticket) will have a box checked that says “Mandatory Appearance” if you are required to appear before the magistrate judge.
Ignoring your citation or pleading guilty without legal advice can lead to long-term consequences—including a permanent federal record, fines, or even a warrant for your arrest. We frequently help people who have never been charged with a crime before. If you’re unsure what to do, we’ll review your case for free and help you understand your options.
Not sure if your charge is serious? We’ll review it for free.
What Do I Do If I Was Charged in Yellowstone?
- Don’t ignore the Violation Notice (ticket)
- Look closely at your court date and location (usually Mammoth Hot Springs)
- Contact a federal defense attorney right away
- Ask if you can appear by Zoom or phone
- Get legal guidance before responding or entering any plea
Does Federal or State Law Apply in Yellowstone?
Most of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming, with small sections in Montana and Idaho. However, all of Yellowstone is governed by federal law, which makes your case significantly different from a typical state criminal case. Offenses are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming, and the hearings are generally held in federal court at Mammoth Hot Springs in the northern part of the Park.
Key differences:
- No jury trial: All cases are heard by a magistrate judge in a bench trial.
- Remote appearances are often permitted, especially for out-of-state visitors.
- Marijuana is still illegal under federal law, even though it’s legal in many states.
If you’ve been charged, working with a lawyer who understands these nuances is critical.
What Are Common Charges in Yellowstone?
Even a seemingly minor violation can carry serious legal consequences. These are the most common federal charges we handle:
- DUI (alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs)
- Possession of marijuana or other controlled substances
- Approaching or disturbing wildlife
- Unlawful possession of firearms
- Entering restricted or closed areas (often referred to as “Thermal Trespass” if you entered a protected thermal area)
- Underage drinking or public intoxication
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Disorderly conduct
- Interfering with law enforcement duties, including refusing to take a breath or blood test
What are My Legal Rights If I am Charged in Yellowstone?
Being charged in Yellowstone doesn’t strip you of your Constitutional protections. You are still entitled to:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to an attorney (except if you are asked to provide a breath or blood test during an active DUI investigation)
- Protection from unlawful search and seizure
- Due process under federal law
We will evaluate your case for Constitutional violations, including improper stops, illegal searches, or Miranda rights issues.
What Happens After I’ve Been Charged?
Understanding the process can reduce stress. Here’s what to expect:
- Citation or Arrest: Issued by Park Rangers.
- Court Notice: You’ll be ordered to appear (“Mandatory Appearance”) at the federal courthouse in Mammoth Hot Springs.
- Remote Appearance: We often arrange Zoom or phone appearances when allowed.
- Bench Trial or Resolution: Cases are heard by a magistrate judge. Outcomes include dismissals, plea deals, fines, or probation.
We handle everything from evidence review to court filings and keep you informed every step of the way.
Why Is LHMG The Best Firm to Handle My Case?
LHMG is a Bozeman-based firm with extensive experience representing clients in federal cases inside Yellowstone. We regularly help out-of-state visitors, MSU students, and local residents cited or arrested in the park.
Why Clients Choose Us:
- Decades of experience with federal criminal defense
- Familiarity with Mammoth Hot Springs court procedures
- Flat-fee pricing
- Responsive communication
- Respectful, clear legal guidance
We’re trial-ready when needed, and we know how to get good outcomes without unnecessary court appearances.
What’s at Stake With a Federal Conviction?
Federal charges are serious. Even a first offense can impact your future. Don’t leave your case to chance. Convictions can result in:
- A permanent federal criminal record
- Jail or probation
- Fines and court costs
- Restrictions on future travel to national parks
- Effects on employment, licensure, and immigration
Additional Questions About Yellowstone Criminal Charges
Q: Can I just pay the fine?
A: Sometimes, but many charges require a mandatory court appearance.
Q: Do I have to return to Montana?
A: Not always. We often help clients resolve cases remotely.
Q: Is marijuana legal in the park?
A: No. Yellowstone follows federal law, and marijuana possession is a crime.
Q: Do I need a Montana or Wyoming-based attorney?
A: Yes—especially one who knows the Mammoth courthouse and Yellowstone-specific procedures.
Q: What does this cost?
A: We offer flat-fee pricing. No surprise hourly bills.
We’ll Handle the Legal Side—So You Can Move On
Whether you’re still in the Greater Yellowstone area or already back home, LHMG is ready to help. From your first call to the final hearing, we provide clear legal guidance, experienced representation, and peace of mind.
