Domestic violence can be charged in a number of different ways in Oklahoma.
Regardless of the details of the charges, however, it is vital to have on your side a dedicated criminal defense attorney with experience in domestic violence cases.
Norman, Oklahoma criminal defense attorney Jacqui Ford knows that the system can sometimes be rigged. That’s why she works with clients to fight back against their charges. If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, here’s what you need to know.
Domestic violence can be charged in a number of different ways in Oklahoma.
Regardless of the details of the charges, however, it is vital to have on your side a dedicated criminal defense attorney with experience in domestic violence cases.
Norman, Oklahoma criminal defense attorney Jacqui Ford knows that the system can sometimes be rigged. That’s why she works with clients to fight back against their charges. If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, here’s what you need to know.
In Oklahoma, domestic violence charges are different from simple assault and battery charges depending on who’s involved.
For domestic violence charges, there has to be some sort of relationship between the victim and the accused. This even extends to someone who’s currently living in a house, even if there’s no familial relationship.
This is because domestic abuse requires some sort of pre-existing relationship before the crime occurs. These relationships could include:
Oklahoma’s domestic violence laws are found in the same statute as assault laws, but domestic assault and battery generally carries more serious charges: up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000 for the first offense.
Certain characteristics of the offense, however, or repeated domestic violence convictions can quickly elevate it to felony status.
This is because domestic abuse requires some sort of pre-existing relationship before the crime occurs. These relationships could include:
It’s important to note that many criminal acts in Oklahoma law have a statute of limitations – or the amount of time after an alleged crime occurs that someone can bring about a case.
Because domestic violence does not have a specific timeframe listed, it falls under Oklahoma’s general three-year limit.
This means that a victim cannot come forth more than three years after a domestic violence event and have law enforcement seek charges against you.
This is why it’s vital to get an experienced domestic violence defense attorney on your side from the get-go.
Sometimes when people are charged with domestic violence, the person who accused them also files for a victim protective order, commonly known as a restraining order.
In Oklahoma, an emergency victim protective order may be assigned at the scene of the arrest. However, this protective order would only be temporary, but a first offense for violating a protective order is still charged as a misdemeanor. A second or subsequent VPO violation is a felony charge that carries a punishment range of 1 to 3 years in prison and a max fine of up to $10,000.00.
Additionally, many defendants facing domestic violence charges in Oklahoma are encouraged to go through a Batterer’s Intervention Program, often referred to as BIP.
Some defendants enroll in this program early on in their case in an attempt to secure a more favorable plea deal, but sometimes the program is mandated by the court. It’s important that attendees show up to the course in order for the program to help with your case or probation agreement. If you violate the terms mandated by the court, you may have to start the course again or face other consequences, as well.
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When you’re caught in a tough situation, we’re here to help you get through it together. It’s important that you contact a criminal defense lawyer as SOON as you’re accused so that we can work together and try to get your charges dropped. We’re always available to talk, and we’ll always be honest with you.
