YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 

That means any alleged offense—from traffic violations and wildlife disturbances to more serious conduct like DUI or drug possession—is handled through the federal court system in the District of Wyoming, regardless of where in the park the incident occurred. Unfortunately, even seemingly minor infractions in Yellowstone can carry unexpected consequences, including federal charges, fines, mandatory court appearances, or even jail time. The remoteness of the park and the complexity of federal procedures can make legal representation both critical and logistically difficult.

 

From a defense perspective, one of the most challenging aspects is navigating the interplay between federal regulations and the unique rules specific to Yellowstone. Cases often involve citations issued by park rangers under the Code of Federal Regulations, and while the offenses may appear minor, they are prosecuted seriously. Additionally, because many clients are tourists from out of state or even international visitors, they face significant hurdles just attending required court appearances in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming—let alone mounting a proper defense. 

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My role as counsel is to help clients understand the legal process, protect their rights, and, when possible, resolve matters efficiently to minimize long-term consequences like being prohibited from national parks, having a federal record or having your future travel restricted.