If you are facing a misdemeanor charge in Oklahoma, specifically Okmulgee County, you may question the need to retain a lawyer to help with your case. Before deciding to forgo hiring an attorney, you should be aware of the potentially severe consequences of even “minor” offenses.
Even A Minor Misdemeanor Charge in Okmulgee May Carry Serious Consequences
In general, crimes in Oklahoma are either classified as felonies or misdemeanors. While misdemeanors are the less severe of the two, convictions may still carry heavy fines, significant jail time, or both. According to Oklahoma state law, which applies in Okmulgee County, a felony is a crime which may be “punishable with death, or by imprisonment in the penitentiary.” All other crimes are considered misdemeanors.
Generally, Oklahoma allows those convicted of misdemeanors to be punished by a maximum of one year in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both. Many misdemeanor offenses, such as those for driving under the influence of alcohol, carry even higher fines. While an offense may seem minor, there is often the possibility a jail sentence could be imposed. If this is not your first offense, the possibility of jail time increases. Even short sentences could have a serious impact on your life and work.
Other types of problems may also be present when facing a misdemeanor charge in Okmulgee, beyond the basic punishment. For example, when convicted of driving under the influence, your license may be suspended. Upon subsequent convictions, this suspension can be extended for a number of years. Losing the ability to drive could substantially impact your ability to make a living.
Low-cost Consultation: Okmulgee Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing a misdemeanor charge in Okmulgee, you should not risk a conviction’s potentially devastating consequences. For a low-cost and confidential consultation with an Okmulgee County criminal defense attorney, call the Wirth Law Office – Okmulgee today at (918) 756-9600 today. Or, enter your legal question or concern in the form at the top right of this page, and one of our attorneys will contact you.
