When someone is facing charges in Oklahoma, they generally fall into two main categories: felony and misdemeanor charges. Felonies are the most serious crimes, often carrying lengthy prison sentences. Misdemeanors, while less severe, can still result in jail time, fines, and long-term consequences. Here’s what you need to know about misdemeanor charges in Oklahoma and how they might impact you.
What Is a Misdemeanor in Oklahoma?
Under 21 O.S. § 6, a misdemeanor is any crime that is punishable by up to one year in a county jail and/or fines. While misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies, they are still criminal convictions that can appear on background checks and affect employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Examples of Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanors in Oklahoma include a wide range of offenses, such as:
- Simple Assault and Battery – Causing minor injury or unwanted physical contact.
- Petty Theft or Shoplifting – Typically for property valued under a certain threshold.
- DUI (First Offense) – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs without aggravating factors.
- Vandalism – Causing limited property damage.
- Possession of Certain Controlled Substances – Small amounts of marijuana or other drugs (though some drug charges can be felonies).
- Reckless Driving – Driving in a manner likely to endanger others.
- Disorderly Conduct – Fighting, disturbing the peace, or similar behavior in public.
Penalties for Misdemeanor Convictions
The penalties for misdemeanors depend on the specific offense but can include:
- Jail Time – Up to one year in the county jail.
- Fines – Often ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
- Probation – Instead of jail, the court may order community supervision.
- Community Service – Ordered in addition to or instead of jail time.
- Mandatory Classes or Counseling – Such as anger management or substance abuse programs.
Some misdemeanor convictions can also result in driver’s license suspension, loss of professional licenses, or immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Repeat Offenses and Upgrades to Felonies
Certain misdemeanors can be elevated to felonies if they are repeated or involve aggravating circumstances. For example:
- Multiple DUI convictions can result in felony DUI charges.
- Assault on specific individuals (like police officers) can become a felony regardless of injury.
Can I Expunge A Misdemeanor?
Many misdemeanor convictions in Oklahoma are eligible for expungement after a waiting period, depending on the offense and whether you have other criminal history. Expungement can help clear your public record and remove the stigma of a conviction.
Claremore Criminal Defense Attorneys
Even though misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still have lasting effects on your life. Whether you’re facing charges or are worried about future offenses, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is essential. For a free consultation with an attorney at Claremore Attorneys, call 918-379-4872. Or you can click here to ask a free online legal question.
