Bill > HB0014

This bill strengthens self-defense protections in Wyoming by creating two new statutes that provide legal and financial safeguards for individuals who use force to protect themselves, their family, or their property. The bill establishes that if a person is found not guilty or has criminal charges dismissed after using defensive force reasonably, they are entitled to reimbursement for legal costs, including attorney fees, bail costs, and lost time. Additionally, the bill mandates that such individuals can petition for complete expungement of their arrest and prosecution records, effectively treating them as if the incident never occurred. The legislation defines "defensive force" broadly, allowing individuals to use force when they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent injury or loss to themselves or their property, and it removes any duty to retreat before using such force. The bill also requires special jury verdicts in self-defense cases that capture specific details about the circumstances of the defensive action, such as whether the person was protecting themselves, their family, their property, or coming to the aid of another person in danger. These provisions aim to provide clearer legal protections for individuals who act in self-defense, ensuring they are not financially or legally penalized for reasonable protective actions.

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/HB0014