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This law removes the posting of a bond as a rebuttable presumption that the defendant is not indigent. Now, if a defendant is admitted to bail and the defendant, or another person on behalf of the defendant, posts a bond (other than by personal recognizance) the court may consider that in determining whether the defendant is eligible for a public defender/OIDS appointed … [Read more...] about Easier To Get A Public Defender – 2018 Oklahoma Laws #13

Big changes in sentencing in Oklahoma regarding: sentence modification, payment plans, mandatory minimums, community sentencing, domestic violence, suspended sentences, and deferred sentences. SB 689 was part of a package of criminal justice reform bills aimed at reducing the prison population and easing the burden on defendants. It went into effect November 1, … [Read more...] about Sentencing Reform – 2018 Oklahoma Laws #12

This change eliminated the mandatory minimum for Second Degree Burglary and created Third Degree Burglary. SB 786 amended 21 O.S. §§ 1435 and 1436. It went into effect November 1, 2018 The definition and punishment range of Burglary in the First Degree remained the same. Burglary in the Second Degree is now the following: Breaking and entering the dwelling house of … [Read more...] about Burglary Crimes Modified – 2018 Oklahoma Laws #11

It's now easier to expunge a felony in Oklahoma. Previously, a pardon was required. Now, an individual who has a single non-violent felony conviction can get that felony expunged without a pardon. Note that the expungement does NOT restore firearm rights! The person will be considered a "hidden felon." They can legally state that they have never been convicted of a felony, but … [Read more...] about Expunge Felony Without A Pardon – 2018 Oklahoma Laws #10

This criminal justice reform bill affected the following laws: Delivery of Merchandise for Which Bill of Lading Issued; Embezzlement; False Personation - Receiving Money or Property Intended for Another; Obtaining Property by Trick or Deception - Attempt - False Representation or Pretense - Confidence Game; False or Bogus Checks, Drafts, or Orders; Sale, Delivery, or Receipt of … [Read more...] about Property & Theft Crimes – 2018 Oklahoma Laws #9