OKLAHOMA CITY ATTORNEY
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you are likely under tremendous stress, knowing that a criminal conviction could have significant negative consequences for you. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, whether you are accused of a first offense or you already have a lengthy arrest record, you probably know that you are facing the prospect of fines, restrictions of your rights and privileges, probation or parole, and jail or prison. To help you avoid these penalties and collateral consequences of conviction, you need someone on your side. You need an experienced legal professional with the resources and ability to fight on your behalf. In Oklahoma, criminal defense attorney Ryan Coventon combines expert legal knowledge with aggressive defense strategies and a commitment to protecting the rights of his clients accused of misdemeanor and felony crimes. His experience, skill, and dedication have helped him to win tough cases for his clients in state and federal courts across Oklahoma. When you need sensible legal advice and forceful defense, rely on Ryan Coventon.
Criminal Defense of Misdemeanors and Felonies
Our firm provides criminal defense of state and federal offenses, and we offer assertive representation to every client who comes to us for help. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, we know that the impact of a conviction can complicate your life, and we understand that you deserve quality legal services regardless of whether you are facing a year in jail or a lifetime in prison. Our experience in the state courts and in the United States District Courts in Oklahoma has built a strong record of successful defense, demonstrated through numerous dismissals and acquittals. Our clients trust us to provide high-caliber defense representation for all misdemeanor and felony criminal charges:
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Crimes
- DUI
- Sex Crimes
- Violent Crimes
- White Collar Crimes
Our practice is not limited to criminal defense alone. If you have already been convicted of a crime and are burdened by a criminal record that is inhibiting your ability to find a job, secure housing, or get a loan, we can help you clear your record. Under certain conditions, an expungement can strike your name from court records and eliminate your conviction record from background checks.
Whatever your criminal justice needs, we are prepared and qualified to provide the legal representation you need for a positive result.
Oklahoma Criminal Law
The criminal code of Oklahoma is outlined under Title 21 of the state statutes. This section describes most state crimes and their associated penalties, although drug crimes are defined under Title 63, the Public Health and Safety code.
The crimes described in the statutes are divided into two main classifications of offense: misdemeanor and felony. In general, a misdemeanor is a crime punishable by up to one year in jail. A felony is an offense punishable by a sentence between one year and life in prison, or by death.
Common Oklahoma Misdemeanors
- Alcohol-Related Traffic Crimes – DUI, DWI, and APC
- Assault
- Shoplifting and Theft
- Domestic Abuse
Though misdemeanors are often considered “minor crimes,” and are, in fact, subject to less stringent penalties than felony conviction, there is nothing “minor” about spending a year in jail. Our skillful attorneys can launch a strong defense, working to get your case dismissed, to win a not-guilty verdict, or to find sentencing options that can keep you out of jail and allow you to clear your record.
Often, a misdemeanor offense may be enhanced to a felony charge if one or more aggravating factors are associated with the crime. For example, certain crimes that are misdemeanors on the first offense are elevated to felony crimes upon second or subsequent offenses. Misdemeanor property crimes become felony offenses when the value of the property exceeds a certain amount.
Other crimes are always charged as felonies. These are offenses that are considered particularly egregious—violent crimes, sex crimes, and most drug crimes. Punishable by terms of one year to life in prison, felony conviction also carries collateral consequences that can restrict one’s liberties long after a sentence has been served. For example, convicted felons are unable to hold certain jobs or obtain licensing for certain professions; they are prohibited from possessing firearms; they lose voting rights; and, if they are required to register as a Sex Offender, they face further restrictions on housing, employment, and even limits to places they can go.
Common Oklahoma Felonies
- Violent Crimes: Aggravated Assault, Armed Robbery, Murder
- Crimes against Children: Child Abuse or Neglect, Sexual Abuse, Child Pornography
- Drug Crimes: Possession of a Schedule I or II Drug, Possession with Intent to Distribute, Trafficking
- White Collar Crimes: Fraud, Embezzlement
- Sex Crimes: Rape, Sexual Assault, Lewd Acts
When a prosecutor files charges against a defendant, he or she often attempts to file the most serious charges available and tries to push for the toughest sentencing. Your defense lawyer may be able to have inflated charges dismissed or amended or negotiate favorable sentencing options, such as a deferred or suspended sentence that keeps you out of prison while you complete the terms of your probation.
Defense Attorney Ryan Coventon: Here to Fight for You
Regardless of the crime with which you have been charged, you deserve competent and assertive legal representation. Criminal defense is a matter of justice, and you have the right to effective assistance of counsel and the right to fair treatment by the courts. Find out how we can help you. Submit our confidential Case Review Form or call (405) 417-3842 to schedule a free consultation.
