Felony DUI in Oklahoma

What constitutes a Felony DUI in our state, and how is it different from a misdemeanor DUI in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The distinction between a misdemeanor DUI and a felony DUI in Oklahoma is determined by the specifics of the case, including the number of prior convictions and the severity of any injury or damage caused.

A misdemeanor DUI is typically charged when a person is found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher while operating a vehicle. It can also be charged if they are found to be impaired due to other drugs, even if their BAC is below 0.08. In Oklahoma, a first-offense misdemeanor DUI carries fines of up to $1,000, 48 hours to one year in jail, and/or mandatory attendance at an alcohol safety school.

A felony DUI in Oklahoma is charged when a person has three or more prior DUI convictions within the last 10 years, or when a person causes great bodily injury or death to another due to their impairment. A felony DUI conviction carries harsher penalties than a misdemeanor DUI, including up to 10 years in prison, fines of up to $5,000, and restitution for any damage caused. The court may also suspend or revoke the offender’s driver’s license for up to five years.

Are there specific criteria or aggravating factors that elevate a DUI to a felony in Oklahoma?

Yes. In Oklahoma, a DUI is considered a felony if:

1. The incident involved serious bodily injury or death, or if the driver had a child under 16 in the vehicle.

2. The driver had three or more prior DUI convictions within the past 10 years.

3. The incident occurred while the driver was operating a commercial vehicle.

4. The driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the crime occurred.

How many prior DUI convictions are necessary for a DUI to be considered a felony in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, a DUI can be considered a felony if the driver has three or more prior DUI convictions.

What are some common aggravating factors that can lead to a Felony DUI charge in Oklahoma?

1. Having a passenger under the age of 18 in the car.
2. Excessive speed while intoxicated.
3. Driving recklessly or in a dangerous way.
4. Prior DUI convictions or alcohol-related traffic offenses.
5. Driving with a suspended or revoked license due to alcohol-related convictions.
6. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test or other alcohol screening test.
7. Having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or higher.
8. Causing an accident that results in serious bodily injury or death.

What are the potential penalties and consequences of a Felony DUI conviction in Oklahoma?

The potential penalties and consequences of a Felony DUI conviction in Oklahoma include:

– Up to 10 years in prison, hefty fines up to $5,000, and the loss of driving privileges for up to 10 years

– Probation or parole for up to 10 years

– Mandatory participation in a victim impact panel and/or substance abuse treatment program

– Potential restitution payment to victims or their families

– Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in any vehicle operated during the period of license suspension

– Community service hours for up to 180 hours

– Employment restrictions due to background checks flagging the felony conviction

Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for Felony DUI convictions in Oklahoma?

Yes, a felony DUI conviction in Oklahoma carries a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in jail, along with fines and other penalties.

How do prior DUI convictions from other states impact Felony DUI charges in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, prior DUI convictions from other states will be considered when determining the severity of a felony DUI charge. A prior DUI conviction from another state can be used to enhance the severity of the current charge, and the penalties associated with it. Therefore, a prior DUI conviction from another state may result in harsher penalties for a Felony DUI charge in Oklahoma.

Can a Felony DUI result from DUI-related accidents causing injury or death in Oklahoma?

Yes, depending on the severity of the injury or death. In Oklahoma, a DUI can be elevated to a felony charge if it leads to serious bodily injury or death of another person.

Are there distinctions in penalties between Felony DUI and DUI involving drugs in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are distinctions in penalties between Felony DUI and DUI involving drugs in Oklahoma. Felony DUI is a more severe charge than a DUI involving drugs, and carries harsher punishments. For a first-offense Felony DUI in Oklahoma, the penalty can include up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in the offender’s vehicle. For a first-offense DUI involving drugs, the penalty can include up to 1 year in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, and possible installation of an ignition interlock device in the offender’s vehicle.

Do commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders face unique consequences for Felony DUI in Oklahoma?

Yes, commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders face unique consequences for Felony DUI in Oklahoma. A Felony DUI is a felony offense and punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine up to $5,000. CDL holders may also face additional charges such as Operating a Commercial Vehicle with an Excessive BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration). This can result in revocation of your CDL for up to three years. Additionally, the court may require an alcohol assessment and treatment program in order for a person to have their CDL reinstated.

What is the role of ignition interlock devices (IIDs) in Felony DUI cases in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are required by law for any individuals convicted of a felony DUI. The IID requires the driver to blow into the device in order to start the car. If alcohol is detected, the vehicle will not start. The IID must be installed and monitored for a minimum of one year after conviction in order for the individual to regain their license.

Is there a possibility for plea bargains or reduced charges in Felony DUI cases in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a possibility for plea bargains or reduced charges in felony DUI cases in Oklahoma. The specific facts and circumstances of the case will determine whether a plea bargain or reduced charge is available. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can explain the potential options available in a particular case.

Can individuals with Felony DUI convictions regain their driving privileges in Oklahoma?

Yes, individuals with felony DUI convictions can regain their driving privileges in Oklahoma. To do so, they must complete an Oklahoma Alcohol and Drug Program, as well as apply for a reinstatement of their driver’s license. The reinstatement process can be lengthy and includes submitting a reinstatement fee as well as providing proof of liability insurance. Additionally, individuals with felony DUI convictions may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle.

How does a Felony DUI affect employment opportunities and background checks in Oklahoma?

A felony DUI will affect employment opportunities and background checks in Oklahoma. Employers in Oklahoma are likely to conduct background checks on all applicants, and a felony DUI will show up on these checks. Because of the serious nature of a felony DUI conviction, employers may be hesitant to hire someone with this type of record. In addition, certain types of professional licenses may be revoked for a felony DUI conviction, making it difficult for someone with this type of conviction to find employment in certain fields.

Are there diversion programs or rehabilitation options for Felony DUI offenders in Oklahoma?

Yes, diversion programs and rehabilitation options are available for felony DUI offenders in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services provides a range of services and resources to help those struggling with alcohol and drug use disorders. The Oklahoma Court Referral Program offers an Alternative Sentencing Program for certain alcohol- and drug-related offenses that can include substance abuse assessment, treatment, counseling, education, and/or community service. In addition, the Summit Recovery Center is an inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment program for adults with DUI/DWI convictions.

What rights and legal options do individuals charged with Felony DUI have in Oklahoma?

Individuals charged with felony DUI in Oklahoma have the right to legal representation and the right to remain silent. They also have the right to a fair trial, the right to confront witnesses against them, and the right to present evidence in their own defense.

The defendant may attempt to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor, or file a motion to suppress evidence or testimony if they believe their rights were violated during the arrest. Additionally, they may be able to appeal any conviction or sentence imposed by the court.

Can a Felony DUI conviction impact child custody and visitation rights in Oklahoma?

Yes, a Felony DUI conviction can have an impact on child custody and visitation rights in Oklahoma. Depending on the facts and circumstances of the case, the court may consider a Felony DUI conviction a factor in making decisions related to child custody and visitation rights.

Is there a statute of limitations for prosecuting Felony DUI cases in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a statute of limitations for prosecuting felony DUI cases in Oklahoma. The statute of limitations for felony DUI cases in Oklahoma is three years for a first offense and five years for a second or subsequent offense.

How does our state handle out-of-state DUI convictions in relation to Felony DUI charges in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, any out-of-state DUI conviction is treated the same as a DUI conviction in Oklahoma. The same penalties, fines, and sentencing guidelines that are applied to DUI convictions in Oklahoma are applied to out-of-state DUI convictions. If the out-of-state conviction was for a felony DUI, the same penalties and sentencing guidelines that apply to felony DUI convictions in Oklahoma are applicable.

What resources or organizations provide support and guidance for individuals facing Felony DUI charges in Oklahoma?

1. The Oklahoma Department of Corrections: The Oklahoma Department of Corrections provides resources and guidance for individuals facing felony DUI charges in Oklahoma. They provide information about sentencing guidelines, probation, and early release, as well as other support services.

2. Oklahoma Lawyers for Criminal Justice: Oklahoma Lawyers for Criminal Justice is a non-profit organization that provides free legal services to those accused of or who have plead guilty to felony DUI charges in Oklahoma. They can also provide assistance with the expungement process and offer guidance on how to avoid a similar situation in the future.

3. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): MADD is a national organization that advocates for tougher drunk driving laws and provides support services for victims of drunk driving. In Oklahoma, MADD provides free victim advocacy services, including resources for individuals facing felony DUI charges.

4. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): CASA is an organization that works to ensure children in the court systems receive the best possible outcome in their cases. In Oklahoma, CASA provides assistance to individuals facing felony DUI charges, including information about court proceedings and possible sentences.