Arraignment in Oklahoma Criminal Cases
The Oklahoma criminal process can be exhausting and difficult. Having an experienced attorney can help you navigate the process and will be essential to your case and its success.
An Outline of the Oklahoma Criminal Process
There are many steps in any criminal case, but the process is generally the same from case to case. In order to understand what you may soon be going through, below is an outline of the criminal process in Oklahoma.
1) Pre-Filing
This is one of the most important phases of the criminal process is the time before formal charges are filed. It is important to make sure you have a lawyer on your side during this time so that he or she can contact investigators and negotiate on your behalf.
If you believe you may be under police or DHS investigation, it is critical that you act as quickly as possible by contacting an experienced criminal attorney.
2) Arraignment
The arraignment is your first appearance in court. Here, you will get the opportunity to answer the charges against you. You have the option to plead either guilty, not guilty, or no contest. By pleading no contest or guilty, you will most likely be sentenced immediately. If you choose to plead not guilty, then you will have an opportunity to present your case in trial.
Contacting a lawyer before the arraignment is essential so that you can weigh all of your options and select the one that is most appropriate to helping your case.
3) Preliminary Hearing
During the preliminary hearing, the state must present enough evidence to establish probable cause, which means that the evidence must show that the crime was committed, and by the defendant.
The preliminary hearing offers the defense attorney a chance to cross-examine the state’s witness. It is vital that you have an experienced attorney fighting for your rights, especially during this stage of the criminal process.
4) Trial
Defendants are offered a trial by jury, but are allowed to waive this right in favor of a bench trial, where evidence is presented solely to a judge. Trial by jury has many facets such as the jury selection process, trial motion hearings, and the actual trial examinations.
To understand all of your options regarding trial, talk to your lawyer.
5) Appeals
It is possible to appeal your conviction, but the appellate and post-sentencing processes are often very long and difficult. You will need an experienced legal writer or attorney to help you during this phase of the criminal process.
How We Can Help
The Oklahoma criminal process may seem overwhelming, but with the right attorney in your corner, you might be able to walk away unscathed. Hunsucker Legal Group is here to help you through this difficult time in your life and is ready to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a free review of your case.