This article outlines the essential information Oklahoma parents need to protect their children, including:
The first thing you should do is remain silent and make sure your child does the same. Neither of you should make any voluntary statements to law enforcement without an attorney present.
The next step is to contact a defence attorney with experience in juvenile cases—whether you call us or another qualified attorney. Any time law enforcement is involved, it’s critical to have legal guidance before making any statement, especially one that could incriminate your child later on.
Juveniles in Oklahoma have the same rights as adults during an arrest, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Additionally, juveniles have the right to have a parent or guardian over the age of 18 present during the interrogation phase. This means they can request both their parents and an attorney be present before answering any questions.
At a juvenile detention hearing in Oklahoma, the prosecutor presents the initial allegations, and you will receive a copy of the formal or informal charges, which may involve misdemeanour or felony juvenile matters.
Typically, the case is filed as a JDL (Juvenile Delinquent) case. The information is then provided to counsel, and an attorney enters the case. If the child is in custody, the attorney may seek their release.
Release options often include:
Juvenile cases in Oklahoma are handled differently than adult cases, with distinct terminology and processes. For example, terms like “prison” and “guilty” are not typically used in juvenile court.
Penalties for juvenile offenses vary depending on the nature of the crime. In many cases, juveniles are placed on probation or required to participate in programs such as the Tulsa Boys Home or other rehabilitation services.
In more severe cases, the child may be placed under the jurisdiction of the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA). However, even in such instances, juveniles are not housed with adult criminal populations unless they are convicted of extremely serious crimes, such as murder.
In most cases, juvenile records are sealed when a child turns 18, making them inaccessible to the public. However, there are exceptions that can have lasting consequences. For instance, immigration authorities may still have access to sealed records, which could impact a child’s future immigration status.
Another significant issue arises if your child is charged or convicted of a felony as a juvenile. Without a deferment or dismissal of the case, a 10-year prohibition on firearm possession may apply. This means that even years later—up to age 27, for example—your child could face felony firearm possession charges if they are found with a gun.
As a result, a traffic stop where a firearm is discovered in their vehicle could escalate to a serious charge of felony possession of a firearm by an adjudicated felon, leading to severe penalties, including prison time.
Attorney Carlos Williams is a skilful Oklahoma lawyer who has helped countless parents just like you navigate the stress and challenge of a child being arrested and charged with a crime. With over 20 years of experience, he has built up a close rapport with local communities and courts alike and now hopes to spare more children or families to keep their records clear.
Dealing with a juvenile arrest in Oklahoma? Contact Carlos Williams today to schedule an initial consultation
The best way to secure your child’s future is by hiring an attorney who knows Oklahoma’s juvenile justice system inside and out. With the right legal strategy, your child can avoid a criminal conviction and the lasting consequences that come with it.
If your child has been accused of a crime, don’t wait to act. We’re here to help guide your family through the process and find the best possible outcome available.
We understand how overwhelming it can feel when your child’s future is on the line. But you don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to guide and protect both you and your child every step of the way.
The first thing we’ll do is review the case information and sit down with you and your child to explain the process. We’ll walk you through what’s happening and what to expect, so that you can feel as reassured and prepared as possible.
Next, we’ll work with the prosecutor to try to resolve the situation as quickly and effectively as possible. Often, this involves creating a plan for your child to take proactive steps, such as attending counselling, completing classes, or participating in drug testing. With your support, these actions can demonstrate their commitment to moving forward and help achieve a positive outcome.
By staying on track and following through, your child will have the best chance of resolving this matter favourably. Reaching out to an attorney early can make all the difference—don’t wait to get the guidance you need to protect your child’s future.
For more information on Juvenile Criminal Defense In Oklahoma, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (918) 216-9644 today.
Attorney Carlos Williams is a skilful Oklahoma lawyer who has helped countless parents just like you navigate the stress and challenge of a child being arrested and charged with a crime. With over 20 years of experience, he has built up a close rapport with local communities and courts alike and now hopes to spare more children or families to keep their records clear.
Dealing with a juvenile arrest in Oklahoma? Contact Carlos Williams today to schedule an initial consultation