Threatening Violence Attorneys in Oklahoma

Legal Defense for Threatening Violence Charges

Being charged with threatening violence in Oklahoma can have serious consequences for your freedom, employment, and reputation. At Hunsucker Legal Group, our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the complexities of these charges and work aggressively to protect your rights. If you're facing threatening violence charges in Oklahoma City or the surrounding areas, don't wait to seek legal representation.

Call the Hunsucker Legal Group at (405) 544-2992 to schedule a free, no-risk case consultation today.

Understanding Oklahoma's Threatening Violence Laws

In Oklahoma, threatening violence is governed by Oklahoma Statute § 21-1378. This law makes it a criminal offense to threaten to perform an act of violence involving or intended to involve serious bodily harm or death of another person.

What Constitutes Threatening Violence in Oklahoma?

Under Oklahoma law, a person commits the crime of threatening violence when they communicate a threat to perform an act of violence that involves or is intended to involve serious bodily harm or death to another person. The prosecution must prove four essential elements:

1. Communication of a threat - The defendant must have communicated a threat
2. Intent to threaten - The communication must be intended as a threat
3. Act of violence - The threat must involve an act of violence
4. Serious bodily harm or death - The threatened violence must involve serious bodily harm or death to another person

In cases involving stalking or harassment, there is usually a pattern of repeated acts or several documented incidents. However, communicating a single threat of violence or harm against another person may be enough to result in a criminal charge in Oklahoma.

Threatening Violence vs. Assault vs. Conspiracy

It's important to understand the distinctions between different violent crime charges in Oklahoma:

Threatening Violence vs. Assault

The charge of threatening violence should not be confused with assault, which usually involves an actual physical attempt to harm someone. For example, swinging a fist at someone or moving toward them in an aggressive manner may be considered assault.

Threatening Violence vs. Planning Violence

While threatening violence is a misdemeanor, the law escalates significantly when threats move beyond words to planning. Under Oklahoma Statute § 21-1378, if a person devises any plan, scheme, or program of action to cause serious bodily harm or death with intent to perform such malicious act, either alone or by conspiring with others, they can be charged with a felony.

Penalties for Threatening Violence in Oklahoma

Misdemeanor Threatening Violence

Threatening to perform an act of violence involving serious bodily harm or death is classified as a misdemeanor in Oklahoma. The penalties include:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines and court costs
• Potential probation
• Permanent criminal record

Felony Charges for Planning Violence

If the case escalates to planning or conspiracy to commit violence, the charges become much more serious:

• Felony classification
• Up to 10 years in prison
• Substantial fines
• Long-term consequences for employment and civil rights

Common Defenses Against Threatening Violence Charges

Our experienced threatening violence attorneys employ various defense strategies depending on the specific circumstances of your case:

First Amendment Protection

Some statements may be protected speech under the First Amendment, particularly if they are:

• Hyperbolic or rhetorical in nature
• Made in jest or as obvious exaggeration
• Political speech or artistic expression

Lack of Intent

The prosecution must prove you intended to communicate a threat. Possible defenses include:

• Miscommunication or misunderstanding
• Statements taken out of context
• No intent to threaten

Insufficient Evidence

Challenging the prosecution's evidence by:

• Questioning witness credibility
• Examining the circumstances of the alleged threat
• Challenging the interpretation of ambiguous statements

Constitutional Violations

If law enforcement violated your rights during investigation or arrest:

• Illegal search and seizure
• Miranda rights violations
• Coerced confessions

Why Choose Hunsucker Legal Group for Your Threatening Violence Case?

When facing threatening violence charges, you need experienced legal representation that understands both the law and the local court system. Here's why clients choose Hunsucker Legal Group:

Board-Certified Criminal Defense Expertise

Attorney John Hunsucker is the only Board Certified DUI Defense Attorney in Oklahoma City by the National College for DUI Defense, with extensive experience in all areas of criminal defense, including threatening violence charges.

Proven Track Record

Our firm has successfully defended thousands of criminal cases, with a history of:

• Charges dismissed
• Reduced penalties
• Not guilty verdicts
• Favorable plea agreements

Comprehensive Case Investigation

We thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case, including:

• Reviewing all evidence and witness statements
• Examining the circumstances surrounding the alleged threat
• Identifying constitutional violations
• Consulting with experts when necessary

Client-Focused Approach

Unlike competitors who focus on themselves, we prioritize your needs:

• Personal attention from experienced attorneys
• 24/7 availability for emergencies
• Clear communication throughout the process
• Flexible payment plans available

The Impact of Threatening Violence Charges

A threatening violence conviction can have lasting consequences beyond jail time:

Employment Consequences

• Difficulty finding employment
• Loss of professional licenses
• Restrictions on certain careers
• Background check concerns

Personal Relationships

• Family and custody issues
• Restraining orders
• Social stigma
• Loss of firearms rights

Educational Opportunities

• College admission difficulties
• Loss of financial aid eligibility
• Academic disciplinary actions

What to Do If You're Charged with Threatening Violence in OK

If you've been charged with threatening violence in Oklahoma:

1. Remain Silent - Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney
2. Contact an Attorney Immediately - Early legal intervention can make a crucial difference
3. Avoid Contact - Don't contact the alleged victim or witnesses
4. Document Everything - Preserve any evidence that might support your defense
5. Follow Court Orders - Comply with all conditions of release

Frequently Asked Questions About Threatening Violence Charges

Can I be charged for threatening violence over social media?

Yes, threats made through social media, text messages, emails, or other electronic communications can result in threatening violence charges under Oklahoma law.

What if I didn't mean the threat seriously?

Intent is a crucial element that must be proven. However, statements you consider jokes or exaggerations may still be interpreted as threats by others and lead to charges.

Can a threatening violence charge be expunged?

Depending on the outcome of your case and your criminal history, you may be eligible for expungement. Our attorneys can evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.

Contact Our Threatening Violence Lawyers Today

Don't let threatening violence charges derail your future. The experienced defense attorneys at Hunsucker Legal Group are ready to fight for your rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.

Our team is available 24/7 for emergencies, and we offer flexible payment plans to make quality legal representation accessible.

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