Understanding Possession of Stolen Property Charges in Oklahoma
Possession of stolen property means having goods that you know were taken without permission. In Oklahoma, simply having stolen items can lead to criminal charges, even if you didn’t steal them yourself. This includes knowingly receiving or hiding stolen goods. The law focuses on whether you knew the items were stolen when you got them. Charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the value and type of property involved. Penalties can be severe, including jail time, fines, or both. The state also has clear rules on what prosecutors must prove to convict someone, such as the knowledge that the property was stolen. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1713v1. Many clients ask what happens if they are caught with stolen property. They worry about the immediate impact on their freedom and future. To convict someone of possession of stolen property, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant reasonably should have been aware that the property was stolen. OUJI-CR 5-111.Being charged with possession of stolen property can quickly escalate into serious legal trouble.
The High Stakes: What’s at Risk Without Proper Defense
The consequences of ignoring possession of stolen property charges can be devastating. Jail time is a real possibility, especially if the stolen items are valuable. A conviction often leads to a permanent criminal record, which can destroy job opportunities and damage personal relationships. Losing custody of children or facing immigration problems can also happen if the case is not handled properly. Legal problems related to stolen property don’t stay small for long. What starts as a simple charge can spiral into felony counts with harsher punishments. The stress and fear of facing jail time, fines, and court appearances weigh heavily on defendants and their families. Without strong legal guidance, the chances of a negative outcome increase dramatically.
Wirth Law Office – Oklahoma City: Protecting Your Future
Facing possession of stolen property charges demands immediate and skilled legal help. Wirth Law Office – Oklahoma City provides aggressive defense strategies tailored to each client’s situation. A criminal defense attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, question whether you knew the property was stolen, and fight to reduce or dismiss charges. Protecting your freedom and rights is the top priority. A skilled Oklahoma City attorney understands the complexities of theft-related laws and can guide you through every step of the legal process. This defense can mean the difference between jail time and a second chance. Don’t face these charges alone—get the experienced defense you deserve. Learn more about how a criminal defense attorney can help protect your future today.
If you need legal help, call Wirth Law Office – Oklahoma City at (405) 888-5400.
