Being arrested for a felony in Okmulgee County starts a serious legal process that can feel overwhelming and confusing. A felony is a criminal offense more severe than a misdemeanor and carries potential penalties such as imprisonment, fines, and lasting effects on your record. After an arrest, you will be taken into custody and may face booking procedures, where your personal information, fingerprints, and photographs are recorded. The next steps involve court appearances, decisions about bail, and possibly being held in jail until your case progresses. Understanding what happens after a felony arrest can help you prepare and protect your rights during this difficult time.
The Stakes Are High: Felony Charges Can Impact Your Life for Years
A felony conviction in Oklahoma can lead to imprisonment for years, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and other opportunities. For example, felony charges related to child abandonment or failure to provide child support carry punishments ranging from months to years in prison, plus fines up to several thousand dollars depending on the offense and prior convictions . Okla. Stat. tit. 21 §§ 851, 566. The legal process is complex, and mistakes can lead to harsher penalties or missed opportunities for defense. This is why having knowledgeable felony attorneys is crucial to navigating the system effectively.
What Happens Immediately After the Arrest?
Once arrested for a felony, you will usually be taken to the county jail for booking. This includes recording your identity and the details of the alleged crime. The court will then schedule an initial appearance or arraignment, where you are formally informed of the charges and asked to enter a plea. In most cases, a plea of “not guilty” will be entered at this stage, either by you or the court if you do not have legal representation, to protect your due process rights (Henry v. Schmidt, 2006 OK 34, ¶ 11; Okla. Const. Art. 2, § 25.
At this point, the court may appoint an attorney if you cannot afford one. The right to counsel is critical because felony charges have serious consequences. If you have an Okmulgee attorney, they can advise you on bail, possible defenses, and next steps in your case.
Pretrial Proceedings and Bail Decisions
After arraignment, pretrial procedures begin. The court may set a schedule for discovery, motions, and conferences to prepare for trial. In felony cases, these steps are important to ensure both sides have a fair chance to present evidence and negotiate if possible (Rules for District Courts of Oklahoma, Rule 5. Depending on the circumstances, the judge will decide whether you remain in jail or can be released on bail while awaiting trial.
Bail is not guaranteed and can be denied in serious felony cases or if you pose a flight risk. If granted, bail allows you to stay out of jail but requires a financial payment or bond. Your felony attorneys can help argue for reasonable bail terms or release conditions.
Possible Outcomes and Sentencing
If the case proceeds to trial and you are found guilty, sentencing will follow. Oklahoma law allows for imprisonment ranging from one year to life, depending on the felony and circumstances. Some felonies, like abandonment of a child under 10 years old, carry sentences of one to ten years in prison . Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 851. Fines can also be substantial, sometimes up to $5,000 or more.
In cases involving failure to pay child support, contempt charges might result in fines up to $500 and possible jail time up to six months, but courts may set a purge fee—an amount you can pay to avoid or end incarceration . Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 566. A skilled defense strategy can sometimes reduce penalties or negotiate alternative sentences.
Contact an Okmulgee Attorney Today
If you or a loved one faces felony charges in Okmulgee County, the legal process can be daunting. Wirth Law Office – Okmulgee offers experienced guidance through every stage of your case. Understanding your rights and options is essential. If you need legal help, call Wirth Law Office – Okmulgee at (918) 756-9600 to discuss your situation with an attorney who can protect your interests and work toward the best possible outcome.
