Facing a criminal case in Oklahoma City can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time dealing with the legal system. Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, understanding what to expect during the criminal process can help reduce anxiety and ensure you’re better prepared to defend your rights. Below is an overview of the major steps in a criminal case in Oklahoma City, from arrest to potential resolution.
Arrest and Booking
Most criminal cases begin with an arrest. Law enforcement in Oklahoma City may arrest someone at the scene of a suspected crime or based on a warrant. After an arrest, the person goes to the Oklahoma County Detention Center for booking. This involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information.
Depending on the charge, the court may set bail, allowing the accused to be released while awaiting trial.
Arraignment
The arraignment is the first formal court appearance. In Oklahoma City, arraignments usually occur at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. During this hearing:
- The judge reads the formal charges.
- The defendant enters a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bail may be reviewed or set if it wasn’t already.
- The court may schedule future court dates, including a preliminary hearing for felonies.
Preliminary Hearing (Felony Charges)
If you’re facing a felony, you’ll likely have a preliminary hearing, where the State must show there’s probable cause to believe a crime occurred and you committed it. The prosecutor may present witnesses, and your defense attorney can cross-examine them.
If the judge finds enough evidence, your case will be “bound over” for trial.
Pretrial Motions and Discovery
Before trial, both the prosecution and defense exchange evidence in a process called discovery. This includes:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Surveillance video
- Lab results
Your attorney may also file pretrial motions, such as motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case if there are legal issues with the arrest or investigation.
Plea Bargaining
In many OKC criminal cases, the prosecution and defense negotiate a plea deal before trial. This can result in:
- Reduced charges
- A lighter sentence
- Dismissal of certain counts
It’s ultimately your decision whether to accept a plea deal, and your attorney should explain the pros and cons of any offer made.
Trial
If your case goes to trial, you have the right to a jury trial or bench trial (where the judge decides the case). The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Trials involve:
- Opening statements
- Presentation of evidence
- Witness testimony and cross-examination
- Closing arguments
- Jury deliberation and verdict
If the court find you not guilty, you’re free to go. If convicted, the case proceeds to sentencing.
Sentencing
If convicted, a judge will impose a sentence based on Oklahoma sentencing guidelines. Sentences may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Drug or alcohol treatment
Judges in OKC consider factors such as your criminal history, the nature of the offense, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.
Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief
If convicted, you may have grounds to appeal the decision or seek other forms of post-conviction relief. This must usually be done within a specific time frame. An appellate attorney can help determine if errors occurred during trial that justify a new trial or reduced sentence.
Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you’ve been charged with a crime in OKC, having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is critical. An attorney can challenge the State’s evidence, negotiate plea deals, and protect your constitutional rights at every stage of the case.
