Opinion ID: 1355978
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: constitutionality: preponderance of the evidence standard versus clear and convincing evidence standard

Text: We have previously held that clear and convincing evidence is required to discipline the holder of a medical license. Devous, 845 P.2d at 416; see also JM v. Department of Family Services, 922 P.2d 219, 223 (Wyo. 1996) (clear and convincing evidence standard applies in professional disciplinary hearings). However, in 1995 the Wyoming legislature adopted a preponderance of the evidence standard for Board disciplinary proceedings. Section 33-26-407(b). Statutory enactments are presumed to be constitutional, and one who challenges a statute on constitutional grounds bears the burden of showing the statute is unconstitutional beyond a reasonable doubt. Hoem v. State, 756 P.2d 780, 782 (Wyo.1988). While this Court has the duty to maintain the constitutionality of statutes when possible, `it is equally imperative that we declare them invalid when they transgress the Wyoming Constitution.' Id. (quoting Brenner v. City of Casper, 723 P.2d 558, 560 (Wyo. 1986)). Dr. Painter alleges the Board's reliance on the statutory preponderance standard rather than on a clear and convincing standard violated her constitutional rights to due process and equal protection.