In Oklahoma, most crimes require an intentional act or clear intent to break the law, however, criminal negligence is different. These charges arise when someone’s careless or reckless behavior causes harm, even if they did not intend to hurt anyone. Understanding what criminal negligence means and its potential consequences can help you know what to expect if you are facing this type of charge.
What Is Criminal Negligence?
Criminal negligence happens when a person’s actions (or failure to act) show a disregard for the safety and rights of others that goes beyond ordinary carelessness. It is more serious than a simple mistake but less intentional than deliberately committing a crime.
Examples include:
- Driving at high speeds through a residential area and causing an accident.
- Leaving a child unattended in dangerous conditions.
- Failing to secure hazardous materials, leading to injuries.
In these cases, the issue is not whether the person meant to cause harm, but whether their actions were so reckless or careless that harm was a predictable outcome.
How Oklahoma Law Handles Criminal Negligence
Criminal negligence is addressed in several Oklahoma laws depending on the situation. For example:
- Homicide and Manslaughter: If negligence leads to someone’s death, the charge could rise to manslaughter.
- Child Endangerment: Negligence involving children may result in felony charges.
- Public Safety Offenses: Mishandling firearms, vehicles, or hazardous substances can also lead to charges.
The severity of the penalty depends on the harm caused and the specific law violated.
Potential Penalties
Penalties for criminal negligence vary, but courts typically assign:
- Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Jail or prison time, particularly if serious injury or death occurs.
- Probation, community service, or mandatory education programs.
A criminal record can also affect future employment, housing, and licensing opportunities.
Defending Against Criminal Negligence Charges
Because these charges focus on carelessness rather than intent, defenses often focus on:
- Challenging the level of risk: Showing that your actions were not as dangerous as alleged.
- Proving reasonable care: Demonstrating you acted as a reasonable person would under similar circumstances.
- Questioning causation: Arguing that your actions did not directly cause the harm.
Facing charges can be overwhelming, as it questions not just your actions but your judgment. An experienced criminal defense attorney can helpevaluate the evidence against you, negotiate to reduce penalties, and defend you in court if necessary.
Tulsa Criminal Defense Attorneys
Criminal negligence charges in Oklahoma are serious and can lead to significant legal and personal consequences. While you may not have intended harm, the law treats extreme carelessness with severe penalties. If you’re facing charges, call our team at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm at (918) 416-0358 or contact us online for a free consultation.