Oklahoma is known for the strict penalties it has in place for drug charges, subjecting offenders to possible jail time even for minor infractions, like a first offense possession of marijuana charge. In fact, Oklahoma’s drug sentencing is among the harshest in the country, with mandatory minimums and penalties that may include hefty fines, years …
Oklahoma is known for the strict penalties it has in place for drug charges, subjecting offenders to possible jail time even for minor infractions, like a first offense possession of marijuana charge. In fact, Oklahoma’s drug sentencing is among the harshest in the country, with mandatory minimums and penalties that may include hefty fines, years of probation and drug testing, and life in prison without the possibility of parole. Due to the severity of Oklahoma drug laws and their significant legal consequences, it is imperative that individuals facing drug charges in Oklahoma enlist the help of a qualified Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced OK criminal defense lawyer can work to protect his client’s legal rights, defend his client against drug charges, and minimize the penalties his client is faced with. If you have been charged with a drug offense in Oklahoma, contact the OK City criminal defense attorneys at Oklahoma Legal Center today for a free consultation.
Types of Drug Charges in Oklahoma
There are a number of different drug charges under Oklahoma law, and are typically applied to offenses based on the intention of the person charged with the drug crime.
- Among the most common drug charges in Oklahoma are:
- Possession
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Marijuana cultivation
- Distribution
- Trafficking
- Transportation
- Manufacturing
It is important to understand the difference between Oklahoma drug charges, like possession and possession with intent to distribute, since this will significantly influence the resulting penalties. While five grams of marijuana found in your possession is consistent with personal use and may be considered a misdemeanor, twenty pounds of marijuana found in the truck of your car is more consistent with possession with intent to distribute, which is considered a felony offense under Oklahoma law.
Penalties for Oklahoma Drug Charges
Some drug crimes in Oklahoma may be charged as a misdemeanor, but many Oklahoma drug offenses are considered felonies, which carry mandatory prison time. In addition to prison time, Oklahoma drug offenders may also face significant fines, driver’s license suspension, community service, and the possibility of a permanent mark on your criminal record for felony offenses. Typically, the appropriate punishment assigned to an Oklahoma drug charge depends on a number of factors, including the type and quantity of drug seized, the intention of the offender, and the existence of prior drug offenses. For instance, possession of any amount of marijuana in Oklahoma is punishable by up to one year in prison for the first offense and two to ten years for subsequent offenses. Cultivation of 1,000 marijuana plants or less is punishable by two years to life in prison and a fine of up to $20,000, while cultivation of more than 1,000 plants is punishable by 20 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
Contact an OK Criminal Defense Attorney for Help
Oklahoma is notorious for making an example of even low-level drug offenders, sticking them with stiff penalties including jail time and significant fines. If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug crime in Oklahoma, contact an experienced Oklahoma criminal defense attorney immediately. Too often, the legal rights of Oklahoma drug offenders are violated, a common occurrence among individuals without adequate legal representation. With the help of a qualified Oklahoma City criminal defense lawyer, individuals facing drug charges in Oklahoma can ensure that their rights are protected and can work to have their punishment minimized. Being convicted of a drug crime in Oklahoma can severely affect the rest of your life, including your ability to secure employment and develop social relationships. Contact the Oklahoma City criminal defense attorneys at Oklahoma Legal Center today for a free drug offense case review.