Serious Drug Charges Demand A Serious Defense
At The Law Office of Douglas Parr, I will take the time to go over your case and explain your legal options, including the potential advantages, disadvantages and consequences. As a straightforward and direct attorney, I am committed to providing my clients with the information they need to make educated legal decisions. My clients appreciate the fact that I do not make promises I cannot keep.
I have more than 40 years of experience successfully representing people facing criminal charges such as drug trafficking, manufacturing, cultivation, possession with intent to distribute, possession of drugs, and possession of drug proceeds. If you are facing drug charges of any kind, I encourage you to contact me, Douglas L. Parr, to discuss the situation.
Were Your Rights Violated?
When faced with a criminal charge related to the search and seizure of drugs or drug-related property, it is extremely important to verify that the police followed the proper procedures. Conducting a search without the appropriate information, evidence or legal documentation can be a violation of the constitutional rights guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment. It can also be deemed an illegal search and seizure.
Equipped To Identify Flaws In Drug Dog Searches
A large number of drug cases hinge on the use of a drug dog to alert the police to the potential existence of drugs. I am a recognized state expert in the use of drug dogs during a police search and one of the only lawyers in Oklahoma to successfully attack a drug dog search. I can examine the details about how the dogs were used and the deficiencies in their training.
I frequently teach the legal aspects of drug dog searches at the Oklahoma Criminal Defense Institute. I also lecture on this topic at seminars sponsored by the Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the Oklahoma Bar Association, the Oklahoma Criminal Defense Institute, and the Oklahoma County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. Contact Me Today To Get Started
Don’t make the mistake of underestimating the severity of your drug charge. Contact me today to get started with your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Charges In Oklahoma
Being charged with a drug crime is an overwhelming experience that requires accurate information. Below, I have answered some common questions defendants ask to help you find clarity about your situation.
What are common defenses against drug charges in Oklahoma?
You have several possible options when defending against drug crimes in Oklahoma. Common defenses include the following:
- Unlawful search and seizure: The police must follow constitutional rules during stops, searches and arrests or evidence may be excluded.
- Insufficient evidence: The state must prove that the substance was illegal and that the accused knowingly possessed it.
- Lack of knowledge: The prosecution must prove you were aware that drugs were present in a vehicle, home or personal item.
- Lack of possession: Prosecutors must show actual or constructive possession, which can be disputed if multiple people had access.
- Procedural violations: Mistakes in warrants, testing, arrests and evidence handling may undermine the prosecution.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help ensure that unreliable or unlawfully obtained evidence does not influence the outcome of your case.
Can I go to jail for first-time drug possession in Oklahoma?
Yes. First-time possession can lead to jail, but penalties vary based on the substance and circumstances. Oklahoma classifies simple possession for personal use as a misdemeanor under State Question 780, which carries up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Penalties differ by drug type:
- Marijuana or Schedule III to V substances: These possession cases often lead to misdemeanor charges resulting in fines, probation or required classes.
- Schedule I or II substances: Possession of drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine or heroin may be charged as a felony and can lead to prison sentences of up to five years.
Additional consequences may include probation supervision, court costs, treatment requirements and potential civil forfeiture of property connected to the alleged offense.
Why should I hire a private criminal defense attorney instead of a public defender?
Public defenders are skilled attorneys, but they often manage heavy caseloads that may limit the time available for a detailed case review. Private counsel generally offers greater flexibility to investigate facts, challenge evidence and communicate consistently throughout the case.
A private attorney can devote more attention to analyzing police reports, reviewing body camera footage and identifying constitutional issues. It also allows for more frequent meetings, deeper strategy development and broader access to experts or investigators when needed.
As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, I can provide dedicated attention and help you create an effective defense strategy.
Contact A Criminal Defense Attorney Today
From my office in Oklahoma City, I represent clients throughout the state. Call 800-787-2415 to arrange a free initial consultation with me, Douglas L. Parr.
