Understanding What a Misdemeanor is and What It Can Mean If Charged
Generally, under Oklahoma law, crimes are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies. Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors, but either crime can mean jail time if you are convicted. However, while a felony can mean years in prison, a misdemeanor is punishable by a smaller fine and much less time in jail. In either case, you will want a skilled attorney to help you through the process. A skilled misdemeanor defense attorney in Pryor Creek not only knows how to handle the crime charged at the state court level but will also have intimate knowledge regarding local courts and judges, often paving the way for a better outcome for you.
Misdemeanors in Oklahoma are punishable by 1 year or less in the county jail. Misdemeanors include such things as driving under the influence, possession of marijuana, vandalism, shoplifting or petit larceny, and the like. Your attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the possible ramifications. In addition to jail time, if convicted, you may have to pay a fine, and face the loss of certain licenses and privileges. An experienced misdemeanor defense attorney in Oklahoma can help you minimize these consequences.
Always Take Criminal Charges Seriously
Jail time is always serious. A conviction may interfere with your job, your ability to obtain and maintain housing, jail time, fines, and probation. A conviction can influence pending child custody matters.
In addition, for some crimes, a first offense may be classified as a misdemeanor, while subsequent convictions may be treated as a felony. In that way, a first conviction, when avoided, can help avoid a more serious outcome later. This is particularly true with alcohol and drug crimes.
Get The Help You Need
An experienced Oklahoma misdemeanor defense attorney can help. It is important to hire an attorney early in the process and certainly before you speak to the police. An attorney can help build a strong defense. Even on misdemeanor charges, a strong defense is often the best way to lead. This is certainly not a time to try to handle things yourself. The prosecution will certainly bring in their reports, experts, and police officers to testify. You need someone on your side for your future and for your peace of mind.
Free Consultation With a Pryor Creek Misdemeanor Defense Attorney
We offer a free consultation. Call (918) 932-2862 now to see what we can do to help you when you need it most. You can also fill out the consultation form at the top of this page. Wirth Law Office – Pryor answers all of your legal questions. Fill out our consultation form on this page and one of our Mayes County attorneys will contact you as soon as possible.