The right to a public trial is one of the most fundamental protections in the American criminal justice system. Both the United States Constitution and Oklahoma law recognize that criminal proceedings should generally remain open to the public rather than conducted in secret. Public access to court proceedings helps promote fairness, accountability, and confidence in the judicial system. The Constitutional Basis for a Public Trial The right to a public trial comes from the Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which states that a criminal defendant… Read More

In Oklahoma, crimes are generally classified into two categories: misdemeanor and felony crimes. While misdemeanors are less serious, felony crimes carry severe consequences, including long-term imprisonment, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’re facing charges of a felony—or have concerns you could be—it’s important to understand what qualifies as a felony and what’s at stake. Here’s a breakdown of felony crimes in Oklahoma and what you should know. What Makes a Crime a Felony? Under Oklahoma law, a felony is any crime that is punishable… Read More