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probation Tag

Conditions of Bail and Probation in Oklahoma

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...

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You Served Your Sentence for a DUI or Drug Crime. Now What?

You Served Your Sentence for a DUI or Drug Crime. Now What?

Finally, you finished serving your sentence for a DUI or a drug crime. Whether you had to spend time in jail or prison, or you had to pay fines and take alcohol education classes, it is all over. Now you may be wondering what is next. Double-Check that You Completed All Terms of the Sentence First, double-check with your lawyer or the court that you have truly completed all the requirements of your sentence. Sometimes there will be a requirement saying that you have to take random BAC tests or check in with a probation officer for months or years after you...

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Random Breath Testing Devices: What You Need to Know

Random Breath Testing Devices: What You Need to Know

If you pled guilty to a DUI or took a plea deal, the court may require you to do random breath testing using a special device. The device is similar to a breathalyzer that you use at home or at a probation supervisor’s office. Like an ignition interlock device or alcohol monitoring bracelet, it detects alcohol usage in an effort to stop repeat DUIs. How Does a Random Breath Testing Device Work? These devices are very similar to a breathalyzer, except that they often have identity verification features. For example, some random breath testing devices have voice recognition, facial recognition, or picture...

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Will You Get Kicked Out of College for a Drug or Alcohol Arrest?

Will You Get Kicked Out of College for a Drug or Alcohol Arrest?

You went out with college friends for a night of fun, but you got pulled over and arrested on the way home for DUI. The arrest has left you scared about your future at school – will professors find out? Will you get kicked out? Double Consequences for Many Student DUIs Unfortunately, many college students suffer from double consequences when they get arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They face not only criminal charges, but also potential discipline at school. Colleges and universities often have codes of conduct that prohibit drinking and driving, drug use, and underage drinking....

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What Is Conditional Release in Oklahoma?

What Is Conditional Release in Oklahoma?

Conditional release, also called conditional discharge, gives those charged with a crime the opportunity to avoid jail time and criminal records while obeying court-ordered restrictions and requirements. It is one of the diversion programs Oklahoma uses to lower costs, relieve overcrowded jails, and give small-time offenders a second chance. Oklahoma offers a diversion program of conditional discharge for people charged drug possession as their first drug-related offense. If the court so chooses, or as part of a bargain with the prosecutor, the person accused will not be found guilty of possession. Instead, the court will defer any further sentencing and obtain...

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Travelling with a DUI on Your Record

Travelling with a DUI on Your Record

Travelling to other countries and even states could be difficult with a DUI on your criminal record. If you are planning a trip, research your destination to ensure that your travels will be smooth. Each country has its own laws relating to convictions for driving under the influence and other criminal convictions. Some are extremely strict and prohibit entry for certain people depending on their offense. For example, Canada is very strict on admitting people with DUIs, treating a DUI as a serious criminal offense. In all likelihood your DUI conviction will be considered more severe in Canada because the country...

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After the Court Case: What Next?

After the Court Case: What Next?

You worked hard to fight your DUI charges in court. Maybe you won, or maybe you lost and were found guilty. Maybe you are pursuing an appeal. Whatever the outcome, you may find that your life is very different than before your arrest. Sentencing If you were found guilty, the court will set a date for your sentencing. At the sentencing, the court decides which punishments to impose for your crimes. For example, the law may require a year in jail as a mandatory sentence but leave other punishment up to the court. In DUI cases, the laws often require some length...

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Suspended and Deferred Sentences in Oklahoma

Suspended and Deferred Sentences in Oklahoma

People who commit DUI offenses in Oklahoma may receive suspended or deferred sentences. While there are important differences between these alternative sentencing methods, both give people the option to meet certain conditions imposed by the court and avoid jail time as a result. In Oklahoma and the rest of the United States, you are considered to be “convicted” of a crime if you are found guilty by a judge or jury and final judgment is entered. However, sentencing for the crime may occur at a later hearing. Suspended Sentence For a suspended sentence, you are convicted of a crime but do not have...

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Overview of the Oklahoma Criminal Justice System

Overview of the Oklahoma Criminal Justice System

Understanding the different parts of the Oklahoma criminal justice system will help you understand the progress of your DUI case. In Oklahoma, like in most other states, different types of law enforcement officers and courts handle criminal cases depending on where a person was arrested and the stage of their case. Law Enforcement The Oklahoma Highway Patrol has jurisdiction over all state highways and waterways. Its officers are spread throughout the state. Each Oklahoma county has a sheriff’s department with deputies who patrol the county roads. Sheriff’s deputies may coordinate with police officers in the major cities. For example, in Oklahoma City the...

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