A DUI checkpoint is just a location where the police are stopping every driver who comes through the checkpoint. Many drivers just present their identification and go on their way. But some will be stopped for further investigation if the police believe that they are...
Criminal Defense
3 things to know about Miranda warnings
Almost everybody in the United States has some idea of what it means to be “read their rights,” or receive a Miranda warning. In essence, the Miranda warning is just a formal reminder that, among other things, you have the right against self-incrimination and that if...
What’s the difference between burglary and theft?
Property crimes, including theft, are among the most common criminal charges pursued in Oklahoma. There are many different forms of theft, from retail fraud or shoplifting to strong-arm robberies. Anyone accused of stealing or attempting to steal property from another...
Can police search your vehicle during a traffic stop?
If the police have ever pulled you over, you know that feeling of dread. It's natural to feel anxious since there's always the potential for things to take an unexpected turn, such as the police asking to search your vehicle. It's vital that you know your rights so...
When can someone in Oklahoma face the death penalty?
As with many important issues, states across the country are divided when it comes to capital punishment (widely known as the death penalty). Some don’t allow it under the law, while others have moratoriums on this practice issued by their governors. Many, like...
Can you be convicted solely on circumstantial evidence?
Circumstantial evidence does not directly establish a fact in question but provides a basis for a reasonable inference that the fact likely exists. It relies on logical connections and surrounding circumstances to draw conclusions rather than providing explicit proof...
Accused of shoplifting? How to deal with store security
Imagine this: You’re peacefully browsing through a store and minding your own business when suddenly you’re approached by store security and accused of shoplifting. If you’re like most people, you’re going to feel some combination of outrage, humiliation and fear –...
Throwing something away may remove privacy expectations
As a general rule, you do get to expect to have a certain level of privacy in your own home. This extends to the things that you own. The police cannot simply come in to your house and take items or perform a search without your permission, because that is your...
Can you be charged for pulling an unloaded gun on someone?
If you're facing assault charges for threatening someone with a gun, you may wonder whether an unloaded gun is considered dangerous. An unloaded gun may not be able to fire, but this doesn't mean you won't be charged for threatening someone with it. Even when you...
The problem with pleading guilty to an Oklahoma DUI charge
Getting pulled over because a police officer suspects chemical impairment may mean a complete disruption to someone's schedule, as they might spend the night in jail. It could even be a full weekend before they have an arraignment in front of a judge. A driving under...