What is Considered Burglary in Oklahoma?

Burglary in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, burglary is a serious property crime with distinct degrees and specific elements. It involves more than mere trespass or theft—it requires unlawfully entering or breaking into a structure (or vehicle) with the intent to commit a crime. Below is a breakdown of how Oklahoma defines burglary, what must be proven, and how it differs from related offenses. Statutory Degrees of Burglary in […]

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How Does Bond Work in Oklahoma Courts?

How Does Bond Work

When someone is arrested in Oklahoma, they often have questions about how bond works. The answer usually involves posting bond. Understanding how bond works in Oklahoma can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary costs or delays. What Is Bond? Bond (also called bail) is money or property posted with the court to secure a defendant’s release from jail while awaiting trial. It is […]

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Why Are Witnesses Important in Civil and Criminal Cases?

Importance of Witnesses

We often get questions about the importance of witnesses in both civil and criminal cases. Whether you are pursuing a personal injury claim, defending against criminal charges, or involved in a contract dispute, witness testimony can help establish the truth and influence the outcome of your case. Our Creek County attorneys are here to explain. What Is a Witness? A witness is anyone who […]

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How Does the Plain View Doctrine Work in Oklahoma

Plain View Doctrine

The plain view doctrine is an important rule in criminal law that affects how police collect evidence. It allows law enforcement officers to seize certain items without a search warrant, as long as it meets specific legal requirements. In Oklahoma, this doctrine is common in drug cases, weapons charges, and other criminal investigations. What Is the Plain View Doctrine? Under the Fourth Amendment to […]

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What is Flight Risk and How Do Courts Determine it?

Flight Risk

In Oklahoma criminal cases, one of the first things a court does is assess a person’s flight risk when deciding whether to release them before trial and under what conditions. Here’s what this determination means and how Oklahoma courts evaluate it when deciding bail or pretrial release conditions. What Does Flight Risk Mean? Flight risk refers to the likelihood that a person accused of […]

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What Does ‘Beyond A Reasonable Doubt’ Mean in Oklahoma Criminal Cases?

Beyond A Reasonable Doubt

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Oklahoma—or are following a criminal case—you’ve likely heard the phrase “beyond a reasonable doubt.” It’s one of the most important standards in our justice system, but what does it actually mean? In short: it’s the level of certainty the prosecution must meet to convict someone of a crime. Here’s what that means for criminal defendants and […]

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What Happens At An Arraignment Hearing?

Arraignment Hearing

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Oklahoma, your first court appearance is likely to be an arraignment hearing. This hearing marks the official beginning of the criminal process, during which the court informs you of your rights, the charges against you, and asks you to enter a plea. While it may seem simple, this hearing can impact how your case proceeds, so […]

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How Does the Court Decide on Bail?

Decide on Bail

After an arrest, many people have questions about how the court will decide on bail. Bail plays a critical role in the criminal justice process, as it determines whether a defendant remains in jail while awaiting trial or is released under certain conditions. Understanding how Oklahoma courts decide on bail can help you prepare and advocate for a fair outcome. What Is Bail? Bail […]

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How Does A Bench Trial Work in Oklahoma?

Bench Trial

A bench trial is a trial decided entirely by a judge, with no jury involved, and can be used in both civil and criminal cases. While jury trials are more common in serious criminal cases, bench trials are often used in family court, small claims, and certain misdemeanor or civil cases. Understanding how a bench trial works in Oklahoma can help you decide if […]

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What are Some of the Differences Between a Civil and Criminal Trial in Oklahoma?

Civil and Criminal Trial

If you’re involved in a legal dispute in Oklahoma, it’s important to understand whether your case will be a a civil or criminal trial—because the rules, procedures, and outcomes differ in significant ways. While both types of trials take place in a courtroom and may involve judges, lawyers, and juries, the purpose, standards of proof, and potential consequences vary greatly. Purpose of the Case […]

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