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How to Choose the Best Oklahoma City DUI Lawyer

If you’re facing a DUI charge in Oklahoma City, finding the right lawyer can make all the difference. You need someone who understands the law, respects your rights, and knows how to challenge the evidence being used against you. But how do you choose the best DUI defense attorney for your case?

At Jacqui Ford Law, we don’t just handle DUI cases, we’ve built a reputation on defending everyday people from life-altering criminal charges with skill, compassion, and relentless advocacy.

Lead attorney Jacqui Ford is a nationally-recognized criminal defense lawyer known for her no-nonsense approach, sharp courtroom strategy, and deep understanding of Oklahoma’s DUI laws. 

Whether this is your first brush with the law or you’re facing enhanced or felony charges, we’re here to walk you through what to look for, what to avoid, and what to expect when hiring a DUI defense lawyer in Oklahoma City.

First, Understand What You’re Facing

Oklahoma has three types of drunk driving charges:

  • DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): Less common, but applies when your BAC is between 0.05 and 0.07.
  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Charged when you’re driving and either your BAC is 0.08 or above, or you appear impaired based on law enforcement’s observations.
  • Actual Physical Control (APC): One of the most misunderstood aspects of DUI law in Oklahoma is a charge known as Actual Physical Control, or APC. You don’t have to be driving to be arrested under DUI laws. If you’re intoxicated and in or near your car with the keys and the vehicle is operational, you can be charged just the same as if you had been driving. It’s a painful paradox in Oklahoma DUI law that makes it even more important to seek legal help immediately.

Most first-time DUI charges are misdemeanors, carrying 10 days to 1 year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. But penalties escalate quickly with aggravating factors like repeat offenses, injuries, or child passengers.

What Makes a Great DUI Lawyer?

Here’s what to look for in your defense attorney:

1. Experience Defending DUI Cases

Not all defense attorneys handle DUI charges the same way. Your lawyer should be deeply familiar with:

2. Clear Communication About Your Rights

You have the right to remain silent. A good criminal defense lawyer will help you understand how to exercise that right from the moment you’re stopped. For example, you’re only required to provide your ID and insurance, not to answer questions about where you’ve been or how much you’ve had to drink.

3. Guidance on What to Say (and Not Say)

Clients are encouraged to politely decline field sobriety tests, which are subjective and often used to justify an arrest, especially in areas where dash cams or body cams aren’t in use.

4. Honest Advice About the Breathalyzer

This is one of the most common questions we get: “Should I blow or not?” Ten years ago, we might’ve said no. But now, refusal carries its own penalties:

  • Automatic driver’s license revocation for at least six months
  • Required ignition interlock (breathalyzer) installation for 18 additional months

Only you know how much you’ve had to drink, but if you’re under the legal limit, blowing may actually help your case.

Understanding the Penalties for DUI in Oklahoma

The consequences of a DUI in Oklahoma can vary greatly depending on the facts of your case, your criminal record, and whether any aggravating circumstances exist.

  • First-Time DUI: Often charged as a misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail, up to one year, and fines up to $1,000.
  • Second DUI (Within 10 Years): Likely charged as a felony, punishable by 1–5 years in prison and up to $2,500 in fines.
  • Third DUI (Within 10 Years): Carries up to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
  • Fourth or Subsequent Offense: Can lead to up to 20 years in prison.

These are not just numbers, they are years of your life, financial burdens, and potential career-damaging consequences.

If you had a child in the car at the time of arrest, you may face child endangerment charges, a felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

In cases where an accident causes injury to another person, the stakes become even higher. These incidents can result in additional charges and enhanced sentencing. Your license is on the line. The DPS considers driving a privilege, not a right, and can suspend or revoke your license regardless of the outcome in criminal court.

What Happens After a DUI Conviction?

Even if you receive a deferred sentence, Oklahoma law requires several mandatory steps post-conviction:

  • Drug and Alcohol Assessment: Conducted by a state-certified assessor to determine treatment or educational requirements.
  • DUI School: A 10-hour or 24-hour program depending on the severity of your offense.
  • Victim Impact Panel: A one-time event where you’ll hear firsthand stories from victims, first responders, and offenders, designed to show the long-term effects of drunk driving.

Every case is different, and each municipality may have unique requirements. That’s why having an Oklahoma City DUI lawyer who knows how to navigate both the legal and procedural expectations is critical.

Why Timing Matters

The earlier you contact a lawyer, the better. At Jacqui Ford Law, we start working immediately to:

Your case will move fast. Don’t wait; your DUI defense deserves a smart, strategic plan.

Start Building Your Best Defense Today—Contact Our Oklahoma City DUI Attorneys at Jacqui Ford Law Today

Choosing the right Oklahoma City DUI lawyer isn’t just about credentials. It’s about connection, compassion, and confidence in the courtroom. At Jacqui Ford Law, you’re not just a case number, you’re a person with a life worth fighting for.

Facing a DUI charge? Don’t wait. Contact us today at 405-604-3200 for a free and confidential consultation and let’s start building your best defense together.