If your case goes to a jury trial in Oklahoma, one of the most important—yet often overlooked—parts of the process is the jury instructions. These instructions serve as the legal roadmap that guides the jury’s decision-making. They help jurors understand the law, apply it to the facts presented, and reach a fair verdict. What Are Jury Instructions? Jury instructions are directions the judge gives to the jury before they begin deliberations. These instructions explain the legal standards that apply to the case, what elements must be proven,… Read More

If you’re part of a criminal trial in Oklahoma, one of the first steps in the process is jury selection. Whether you’re a party to the case or just called for jury duty, understanding how jury selection works can help you feel more prepared and confident in what to expect. The Role of the Jury in Oklahoma Trials In Oklahoma, juries are part of both criminal and civil cases, though not every case goes before a jury. When either party requests a jury trial, the jury’s job… Read More

We often get questions about what counts as evidence in a criminal case. Whether you’re facing charges of DUI, drug possession, theft, or assault, the outcome of your case will largely depend on the evidence the prosecution can present and how well your attorney can challenge it. So what exactly can be evidence in a criminal case? Almost anything that helps prove or disprove a key fact, as long as it’s relevant, reliable, and admissible under Oklahoma law. Types of Evidence Used in Criminal Trials There are… Read More

One of the most common questions we get in criminal defense cases is: “Will I go to jail for self defense?” Oklahoma law does allow individuals to use force—including deadly force—in certain situations to protect themselves or others. However, not every act of violence is self-defense under the law. Oklahoma’s Self-Defense Law: The Basics Oklahoma recognizes the right to use reasonable force in self-defense under certain circumstances. The law has basis in both common sense and the principle that people have a right to protect themselves, their… Read More

We often get questions from clients about how a jury trial works in Oklahoma. If you’ve never been through the court process before, the idea of a trial—especially one in front of a jury—can feel overwhelming. Understanding how jury trials work can help ease some of the anxiety and prepare you for what to expect if your case goes to trial. What Is a Jury Trial? A jury trial is a legal proceeding in which a group of citizens (the jury) hears the evidence in a case… Read More

Second degree murder is a serious charge in Oklahoma. In Oklahoma, murder charges are divided into different degrees depending on the facts and circumstances of the crime. While first-degree murder often involves premeditation or specific aggravating circumstances, second-degree applies to killings that are intentional or reckless but lack those specific factors. Legal Definition Under Title 21, Oklahoma Statutes § 701.8, second-degree murder includes two main categories: Unlike first-degree murder, second-degree murder does not require premeditation or specific intent to kill. Instead, it focuses on reckless conduct or… Read More