Criminal Defense Lawyer, Oklahoma

When accused of a crime, it is important to have a capable attorney on your side. Leaving a criminal investigation and subsequent charges in the hands of the legal system can have negative repercussions that could impact your livelihood for the rest of your life. We represent clients in all criminal defense scenarios, including DUI, misdemeanors, felonies, traffic crimes, theft, white-collar fraud, sex offenses and other serious situations. Knowing you have an attorney working on your behalf behind the scenes makes a difference.

We have the expertise and experience in defending local and federal crimes using an aggressive defense strategy. Getting arrested for DUI is frequent and requires a strategic defense on your behalf, especially if it has resulted in felony charges. Our DUI defense include situations that include Boating under the influence (BUI), DUI penalties, blood tests, revocations, federal DUI charges, DUI accidents and vehicular manslaughter. Visit our dedicated page for additional information on DUIs.

Misdemeanors are viewed as simple crimes that can be taken lightly. Although the infractions resulting from a misdemeanor may not be as harsh as crimes classified as felonies, being incarcerated is no laughing matter. These crimes are still punishable by law and can have consequences attached to them that could impact you financially and alter the course of your career. Having an attorney to handle these situations is smart and can help you stay out of jail and remove any blemishes on your record.

Being charged with a felonious crime can impact your quality of life forever. Felonies are categorized as the most serious of crimes, and include sexual assault, drug possession, murder, grand larceny, embezzlement, fraud and other serious situations. Receiving a felony charge may result in prison time, which may limit your opportunities for employment, and revoke certain civil rights. There are instances where your charge may be lessened, or you may be found to be not-guilty. These determinations come from good representation that can present all the facts in your case and shed light on inconsistencies that could have negatively affected the outcome. Working with an experienced attorney who understands the legal system can save your life.

It is important to have an attorney who knows the intricacies of the system to defend your case and get results. Do not leave your fate in the hands of a system where you can get lost in the shuffle. Patriot Law provides realistic and affordable options to give you a fighting chance. Serving Norman, Cleveland County, Oklahoma County, Caddo County, Ottawa County, Pawnee County and Canadian County—and the Native American Nations within those counties. Call us today at 405-979-0179.

What to do When Stopped by Police in Norman, Oklahoma

If you are like most people, you have no interest in interacting with the police unless absolutely necessary. Now imagine that a police officer has stopped your vehicle or your person for an unknown reason. While it is natural to be a little nervous, the actions you take immediately after the stop can mean the difference between being arrested and continuing with your business. If you believe police have violated your constitutional rights, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.

Be respectful and polite to the police officer

Nobody wants to be stopped and questioned by law enforcement. However, the reality is that police officers put their lives at risk every day to serve and protect. If they stop you, it may simply be a case of mistaken identity. That said, the last thing you should do is be disrespectful or antagonize an officer. Be polite and courteous and cooperate with the officer. Disruptive or uncooperative behavior will only work against you, and any potential criminal defense you may need. Next, you should follow these steps:

• Ask if you are free to go. An easy way of getting to the bottom of what is going on is to ask the officer if you are free to go. Many people never ask this simple question because they fail to realize that they are not arrested. If the police tell you that you are free to go, then they likely lack reasonable suspicion that you have committed a crime. If you are detained, it is vital that you remain alert and aware of everything that unfolds — even minor details may be integral to your criminal defense case.
• Exercise your right to remain silent. When police stop you, you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions at all. Depending on your situation, this may be your best strategy. This does not mean you act disrespectfully. Simply announce that you are exercising your right to remain silent and ask if you are free to go.
• Make sure the officer knows you do not agree to be searched by saying, "I do not consent to a search." If you do not want police to search your vehicle or person, make sure that it is explicitly known that you do not consent to the search.
• Be honest with the officer. Police officers are trained to detect deception. You can increase your chances of walking away from the incident by being honest with law enforcement agents. If they think you are hiding something, you may be detained longer.

Being stopped by a police officer can be a stressful affair. Consult with a skilled defense attorney, like Patriot Law, if you believe you are unlawfully detained or arrested.