Charged With a Misdemeanor in Oklahoma? What You Need to Know
When people hear the word “misdemeanor,” they often think it’s not a big deal. But make no mistake—misdemeanor charges in Oklahoma can carry serious consequences that follow you for years. From fines and jail time to permanent criminal records, a misdemeanor conviction can affect your job, your reputation, and your future.
At Bennett Vernier, PLLC, our criminal defense team in Oklahoma City fights aggressively to protect our clients from the full weight of the criminal justice system, whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. Here’s what you should know if you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor offense in Oklahoma.
What Is a Misdemeanor Under Oklahoma Law?
Oklahoma law classifies crimes into two general categories: felonies and misdemeanors. A misdemeanor is any crime punishable by up to one year in a county jail, rather than imprisonment in the state penitentiary.
Despite being less serious than felonies, misdemeanors still carry serious consequences, including:
Jail time (up to 12 months per offense)
Probation or supervised release
Fines, fees, and court costs
Permanent criminal record
Loss of employment or professional licenses
Immigration consequences (for non-citizens)
Common Misdemeanor Charges in Oklahoma
Our office regularly handles a wide range of misdemeanor cases, including:
DUI (first offense)
Domestic assault and battery
Petit larceny (theft under $1,000)
Possession of marijuana or drug paraphernalia
Disorderly conduct / public intoxication
Resisting arrest / obstructing an officer
Criminal trespass or vandalism
Driving under suspension (DUS)
Violation of protective orders
Municipal ordinance violations
Even seemingly “minor” offenses can lead to jail time, loss of driving privileges, or a permanent mark on your criminal record.
What Happens After a Misdemeanor Arrest?
The process for a misdemeanor charge usually includes:
Arrest or citation
Arraignment – Your first court appearance, where charges are read and pleas are entered
Discovery – Evidence is exchanged
Pretrial conference / plea negotiations
Trial – Before a judge or jury (if no resolution is reached)
In many misdemeanor cases, our goal is to get the charges dismissed, secure a deferred sentence, or negotiate a plea to avoid jail time and a permanent conviction.
Diversion & Deferred Sentences: Keeping Your Record Clean
For first-time offenders or low-level charges, Oklahoma law allows for diversion programs, deferred sentences, or plea agreements that can result in charges being dismissed and expunged later on. Our team works aggressively to pursue these options where available, especially for clients concerned about employment, housing, or background checks.
Why You Need a Lawyer—Even for a Misdemeanor
Prosecutors and judges do not take misdemeanor charges lightly—and neither should you. Representing yourself puts your freedom, finances, and future at risk. An experienced criminal defense attorney can:
Challenge weak evidence
Protect your constitutional rights
Negotiate with the DA for favorable outcomes
Advocate for dismissal or alternatives to jail
Help you qualify for expungement down the line
At Bennett Vernier, we bring decades of experience, and a unique perspective, to every case. Founding partner Travis Vernier spent over a decade as a police officer and detective. He knows how cases are built, and how to dismantle them.
Charged With a Misdemeanor in Oklahoma City? We Can Help.
Whether you're facing a DUI, assault, or theft charge, the team at Bennett Vernier, PLLC is ready to fight for your rights and your record. Our goal is to minimize the consequences—or eliminate them entirely.
📞 Call (405) 346-9800 to schedule your confidential consultation
📍 6116 NW 63rd St., Warr Acres, OK 73132
🌐 www.bennettvernier.com
