Conditions of Bail and Probation in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, judges can place conditions on bail and probation for criminal defendants. The conditions that any one person may have to follow can vary widely, and it is important to understand them so you do not end up back in jail. Violating bail or probation conditions also could lead to the authorities’ recommendation that you receive a stiffer sentence.
Conditions of Bail
To get released from jail on bail, you pay the court a sum of money determined by the judge. As long as you return for your scheduled hearings, you get the money back. In Oklahoma, you may also be released from jail on bond. If you pay the required bond, you must both show up in court for your hearings and obey a set of conditions that the judge will impose on you.
In a DUI case, bond may involve a requirement that you not use alcohol or drugs. It also may require you to submit to BAC and drug testing periodically. In other types of criminal cases, bond requirements may include not leaving the county, remaining under house arrest, or wearing an ankle monitor.
Conditions of Probation
When you get released from jail on probation, you agree to follow a specific set of conditions. If you meet them, you will eventually finish probation and be totally free of court supervision. Depending on the crime you committed and any deals you struck with the prosecutor, your probation may include:
- No using or possessing illegal drugs or alcohol
- Drug and alcohol tests
- Installing an ignition interlock device on your car
- Not leaving the state without permission
- Obeying all laws
- Not associating with people convicted of crimes
- Reporting to a parole officer (when you are on supervised probation, or parole)
In Oklahoma, people convicted of DUI or drug crimes may end up on probation fairly quickly after beginning their term of imprisonment. The reasons for early probation include lawyers making deals with the prosecutor or prison overcrowding. If your lawyer makes a deal that places you on probation more quickly than usual, make sure to follow probation conditions. If you mess up, you could face much more jail time than you expected.
Have you been charged with a DUI in Oklahoma? Clint Patterson, Esq., of Patterson Law Firm, a former Tulsa prosecutor now using his trial experience and expert-level knowledge of DUI science to defend drivers, can advise you on negotiating bail, probation, or even a reduced sentence. To schedule a case evaluation, visit Patterson Law Firm online or call Clint’s office at (918) 550-9175.