Finding A DUI Lawyer in Oklahoma
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Oklahoma, and anyone facing a DUI charge should seek the help of an experienced Oklahoma DUI lawyer. An Oklahoma DUI conviction can lead to severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. In this article, we will explore the rate of DUI arrests in Oklahoma over the past few years and how an Oklahoma DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge.
DUI vs DWI in Oklahoma
In the State of Oklahoma, the terms DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Impaired) are not interchangeable as they are in some jurisdictions. DUI and DWI are distinct offenses in Oklahoma that come with different legal implications and penalties. Both offenses pertain to the operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. The difference is in the level of impairment and the legal consequences that follow.
DUI in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, a DUI charge is typically levied when an individual is found driving with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the BAC threshold is 0.04%. Penalties for a DUI can be severe and may include:
- Mandatory jail time of up to one year for a first offense.
- Fines up to $1,000 for a first offense.
- Driver’s license revocation for 180 days to three years.
- Installation of an ignition interlock device.
- Mandatory participation in alcohol education or treatment programs.
DWI in Oklahoma
A DWI charge is considered a lesser offense and is usually issued when an individual has a BAC between 0.06% and 0.08%. Although less severe than DUI, DWI still carries consequences:
- Short-term license suspension, usually 30 days.
- Fines typically range from $100 to $500.
- Requirement to attend alcohol education programs.
DUI Arrest Rates in Oklahoma
According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, there were 5,614 DUI arrests in Oklahoma in 2019. This marks an increase from the 5,104 DUI arrests made in 2018. However, DUI arrests in Oklahoma have been steadily increasing since 2016, when there were 4,934 DUI arrests made. The majority of DUI arrests in Oklahoma occur in Oklahoma County, Tulsa County, and Cleveland County.
Penalties for DUI in Oklahoma
The penalties for DUI in Oklahoma can be severe, depending on the circumstances of the case. The following is a general overview of the penalties for DUI in Oklahoma:
First DUI in Oklahoma
- A fine of up to $1,000
- License suspension for six months
- Possible participation in a drug and alcohol treatment program
- Possible jail time of up to one year
Second DUI in Oklahoma
- A fine of up to $2,500
- License suspension for one year
- Possible participation in a drug and alcohol treatment program
- Possible jail time of up to one year
Third DUI in Oklahoma
- A fine of up to $5,000
- License suspension for three years
- Possible participation in a drug and alcohol treatment program
- Possible jail time of up to one year
Ignition Interlock Devices
In addition to the above penalties, Oklahoma also requires the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for some DUI offenders. An IID is a device that is installed in a vehicle that requires the driver to blow into it before the car will start. If the device detects alcohol on the driver’s breath, the car will not start.
In Oklahoma, an IID is required for:
- All repeat offenders
- Some first-time offenders, at the discretion of the court
The cost of installing and maintaining an IID can be substantial, and it is important to discuss the potential requirement of an IID with your Oklahoma DUI lawyer.
How an Oklahoma DUI Lawyer Can Help You Beat a DUI Charge
One of the main ways that an Oklahoma DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge is by investigating the circumstances surrounding your arrest. This includes reviewing the police report, blood alcohol content (BAC) test results, and any other evidence that may have been gathered by the arresting officer. Your Oklahoma DUI lawyer may also question the officer’s conduct during the arrest to determine if your rights were violated in any way.
Additionally, an Oklahoma DUI lawyer may also challenge the legality of the traffic stop that led to your DUI charge. In order for a traffic stop to be legal, the officer must have had reasonable suspicion to believe that you were violating a traffic law or engaging in other criminal activity. If the officer did not have reasonable suspicion, any evidence gathered during the stop may be inadmissible in court.
Top Oklahoma DUI Lawyers
If you have been charged with a DUI in Oklahoma, it is essential to seek the assistance of a top-rated Oklahoma DUI lawyer. An experienced Oklahoma DUI lawyer and their criminal defense law firm can provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to help you beat your Oklahoma DUI charge.
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