A misdemeanor crime in Tulsa County is serious and has consequences that impact your life in the future. In Oklahoma, misdemeanor crime is classified as either felonies or misdemeanors based on their severity. While felonies carry harsher penalties, misdemeanor crimes can still result in serious legal consequences. If you are charged with a misdemeanor in Oklahoma, it is essential to understand the nature of the offense, the possible punishments, and how different types of misdemeanors are classified.
Definition of a Misdemeanor in Oklahoma
Under Oklahoma law (21 O.S. § 5), a misdemeanor crime is any crime that is not classified as a felony and is generally punishable by a fine, county jail time, or both. These offenses are typically considered less severe than felonies but still carry consequences that can impact your criminal record, employment opportunities, and personal life.
Punishments for Misdemeanor Convictions in Oklahoma
The penalties for a misdemeanor conviction depend on the specific crime and any prior convictions. However, the general punishment for a misdemeanor in Oklahoma is a maximum of one year in county jail, a fine of up to $500, or both.
Certain misdemeanors may carry enhanced penalties, such as higher fines or mandatory minimum jail time. In some cases, a judge may allow alternatives to jail time, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.
Common Types of Misdemeanor Crimes in Oklahoma
Misdemeanors in Oklahoma cover a broad range of offenses, including:
- Traffic-Related Misdemeanors
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence) – first offense
- Reckless driving
- Driving without a valid license
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Drug and Alcohol Misdemeanors
- Possession of a controlled dangerous substance (first offense, small amounts)
- Public intoxication
- Minor in possession of alcohol
- Property Crimes
- Petty theft (shoplifting under $1,000)
- Vandalism
- Trespassing
- Assault and Domestic-Related Misdemeanors
- Simple assault and battery
- Domestic assault and battery (first offense with no aggravating factors)
- Disorderly conduct
- Weapons Offenses
- Carrying a firearm while intoxicated
- Unlawful carrying of a concealed weapon
- Other Common Misdemeanors
- Resisting arrest
- Disturbing the peace
- False reporting of a crime
- Leaving the scene
Enhanced Misdemeanor Penalties
Certain misdemeanor offenses in Oklahoma can lead to harsher penalties or will be predicate offense that lead to a felony.
- The crime involves repeat offenses (e.g., a second DUI within ten years can result in a felony charge).
- The offense is committed against certain individuals, such as law enforcement officers.
- There are aggravating factors, such as reckless endangerment.
Tulsa County Misdemeanor Criminal Defense
When you’ve been charged with a crime you have many questions that are haunting you. Will I go to jail, will I be left with a criminal record and many more. Although being charged with any crime is a problem a misdemeanor is not a felony and carries less punishment. Get a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney at Tulsa County Lawyers Group by calling us at 918.379-4864. Or you can follow this link to ask a online legal question.
