Oklahoma Criminal Sentencing

Understanding Sentencing Options in Criminal Cases

Hello, OKC felony attorney Gunner Briscoe with Wirth Law Office here. I primarily handle criminal matters, and a common question from defendants—those against whom the state has filed charges—is: What are the punishment or sentencing options?
Each crime is governed by statutes passed by the legislature, which outline the possible punishments. Broadly speaking, there are three main sentencing options:

1. • Fines Only
     This means your sentence is simply to pay a fine. The amount can vary—$500, $5,000, or more—depending on the offense.

• • Probation
    You may be placed on supervision, either with or without a conviction. (There’s another video I did that explains the difference between a deferred and suspended sentence—consult with an attorney for details.)Probation supervision can be through Oklahoma Probation Services, the Department of Corrections, or a private probation company. You’ll typically pay monthly supervision fees. Additionally, if you’re on probation, you’ll likely pay what are called 991 fees, which are prosecution reimbursement fees paid to the district attorney’s office. You’ll also have conditions to follow, such as:
    • • Attending certain classes
    • • Abstaining from alcohol
    • • Not driving
    • • Other conditions based on your charge and the prosecutor’s recommendations

• • Incarceration
    If the charge is a misdemeanor, incarceration usually means jail time. If it’s a felony, it could mean jail or prison time. There’s also the possibility of a split sentence, which includes both incarceration and probation.

Additional Costs and Responsibilities

No matter which of these three options applies, you will also be responsible for court costs and a victim compensation assessment. This is a statutory fee all defendants must pay if their case is resolved by plea or trial (i.e., not dismissed).
At a minimum, for a misdemeanor case involving probation or incarceration, you can expect:

• • A $30 victim compensation assessment

• • Court costs

• • Possibly other statutory fees

Even if you’re only paying a fine, these additional fees still apply.

Seeking Legal Guidance

Navigating criminal charges and sentencing options can be complex, especially without legal guidance. It’s crucial to speak with an attorney as early as possible. Wirth Law Office is here to help with all criminal cases.

Get a Low-Cost Consultation Today!

If you have questions or need assistance, call Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney Gunner Briscoe at 405-888-5400 for a low-cost consultation. Don’t navigate this alone—let us guide you through the process.