Nevada is home to some of the most diverse and protected wildlife in the country—and the laws that guard it are taken seriously. At Liberators Criminal Defense, we represent individuals accused of violating Nevada's strict hunting and wildlife statutes, including poaching, out-of-season hunting, and illegal possession of protected species. These charges can carry harsh penalties, especially if big game or commercial activity is involved.

What Counts as Illegal Hunting or Poaching in Nevada?

Under Nevada law—specifically NRS 501.105 through 501.405—it's illegal to hunt, trap, kill, possess, transport, or sell wildlife without the proper license, tag, or authorization. Even well-intentioned hunters can find themselves on the wrong side of the law if they misinterpret the rules or fail to follow seasonal guidelines. The law also prohibits disturbing wildlife habitats, such as destroying nests or using illegal traps.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is the agency in charge of enforcing these regulations. Conservation officers often conduct patrols in remote areas, and they have the authority to inspect equipment, search vehicles, and make arrests if they suspect violations.

Penalties for Illegal Hunting and Poaching

The severity of the penalties depends on the specific offense and the species involved:

Misdemeanors: Hunting without a license or during a closed season can lead to up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

Gross Misdemeanors: Offenses like taking protected species without a valid tag or engaging in commercial wildlife activities without a permit can result in up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $2,000.

Felonies: The illegal killing or trafficking of big game animals—including elk, deer, or mountain lions—can be charged as a felony, punishable by 1 to 4 years in prison and fines as high as $20,000.

Penalties can increase based on the number of animals involved, use of illegal methods (like spotlights or baiting), or prior convictions.

Defending Against Poaching and Wildlife Charges

Just because you've been accused doesn't mean you're guilty. At Liberators Criminal Defense, we tailor your defense to the facts of your case, and we know how to push back when law enforcement overreaches. Depending on the circumstances, there are several strategies that may apply:

Lack of Knowledge or Intent: In some cases, defendants genuinely don't know they were violating the law. You may have misunderstood the permit requirements, been hunting in good faith with an expired license, or misidentified the species. Proving lack of intent can be a powerful defense.

Mistaken Identity: If there's no direct evidence tying you to the alleged activity—such as unreliable witness identifications or circumstantial evidence—we'll challenge the accusations head-on.

Unlawful Search and Seizure: Conservation officers still must follow the Constitution. If your vehicle, campsite, or property was searched without proper legal authority, we may be able to suppress the evidence.

Procedural or Legal Errors: From faulty warrants to chain-of-custody problems with seized wildlife, these cases often involve technical details that can be challenged in court.

Why You Need a Defense Attorney Experienced in Wildlife Law

These cases aren't like typical criminal charges. Wildlife offenses involve a specific set of laws and enforcement practices that most attorneys aren't familiar with. At Liberators Criminal Defense, we understand both the law and the terrain—figuratively and literally—and we know how to challenge charges that could otherwise ruin your future.

Protect Your Rights and Your Record

If you're facing accusations of poaching or illegal hunting in Nevada, contact us right away. The sooner we get involved, the more options we have to defend your freedom, your hunting privileges, and your name.