Oklahoma DUI Penalties

Successfully Defending Against DUI Charges Since 1997

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) is a serious crime in Oklahoma. Whether you simply weren’t thinking or made an honest mistake, securing a robust defense is paramount to avoiding the life-altering penalties of a DUI conviction. When it comes to protecting your future, put your trust in a DUI defense firm with winning results and a success rate of over 90%. 

Since 1997, Hunsucker Legal Group has been committed to defending against all types of DUI charges. Our goal is to safeguard your life and liberty by providing the aggressive defense you deserve. From negotiating a fair sentence to challenging inadmissible evidence, our DUI defense attorneys have decades of experience and a deep understanding of criminal defense to aggressively defend your rights. 

Facing DUI charges can be daunting, but you’re not alone. Call (405) 544-2992 to schedule a free consultation with our highly skilled defense lawyers. 

Understanding the Costs of a DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction can have far-reaching implications on your life. Even first-time offenders can face harsh penalties in criminal court. The costs of a DUI conviction aren’t just financial, but include physical and emotional costs as well.These may include: 

If you’re facing DUI charges, don’t hesitate to contact Hunsucker Legal Group for the strategic and tailored defense you deserve. Our attorneys have decades of experience and proven results in DUI cases, giving you peace of mind that your future is in trusted hands. 

Understanding DUI Penalties in Oklahoma

First DUI Offense

A first DUI offense is generally charged as a misdemeanor DUI. A conviction carries up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, even first-time offenders can face felony charges if aggravating factors exist. 

Second DUI Offense

A second DUI offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on whether the prior conviction occurred within the ten-year lookback period. Potential penalties include one to five years in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500. 

Third DUI Offense

A third DUI offense is typically charged as a felony DUI. A conviction is punishable by one to ten years in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. 

Fourth DUI Offense

A fourth DUI is a felony offense that carries severe penalties. A conviction can result in up to 20 years in prison and $10,000 or more in fines. 

What Are the Penalties for an Aggravated DUI? 

An aggravated DUI occurs when a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.15% or higher. While not every aggravated DUI is a felony, you may incur additional penalties as a result, including IID installation, 480 hours of community service, periodic alcohol monitoring, probation, and mandatory in-patient treatment or counseling. 

Is DUI School Mandatory for a First Offense?

State law requires a substance assessment and treatment program or education course (DUI school) for all DUI convictions, even first-time offenses. This is especially true if you were charged by the state. If you were charged by a municipality, your lawyer might be able to negotiate an alternative arrangement. Our attorneys are well-versed in these legal intricacies to defend your liberty and advocate for a fair outcome.   

What Is the DUI Lookback Period?

If you’re charged with a second DUI within ten years of the first, you may face elevated charges for a felony DUI. However, prior DUI offenses dating back more than ten years cannot be considered in a current DUI case. This is known as the ten-year lookback period.

DUI charges accrued during the lookback period must meet certain criteria to be considered in a current DUI case, including: 

• The prior charge(s) must have been for DUI or APC (“actual physical control”) specifically. Driving under the influence (DWI) charges have no impact on current DWI, DUI, or APC cases. 
• Charges accrued prior to November 1, 2011, must have resulted in a conviction. If the charge resulted in a deferred sentence, it cannot be considered in a current DUI case. 
• The prior charge must have been heard in a court of record. The only courts of record in our state include the County District Courts and the Oklahoma City and Tulsa Municipal Courts. All other municipal courts are not considered courts of record. 

When Can a DUI Result in Felony Penalties? 

The penalties for a DUI conviction depend on prior convictions and other unique factors. If you have a prior DUI offense, second and subsequent charges that occur within the ten-year lookback period can be prosecuted as felonies. The penalties for a felony DUI include:   

• A first felony DUI carries one to five years in prison and up to $2,500 in fines.
• A second felony DUI carries one to ten years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.
• A third or subsequent felony DUI carries one to 20 years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. 

What if I Have a Prior DUI Conviction from a Different State? 

Oklahoma follows the Driver License Compact, meaning that prior DUI and APC charges from out of state can be used to enhance a current DUI. For example, if you were convicted of a DUI in Texas and charged with a second DUI in Oklahoma within ten years of the first, this can be used to enhance the penalties against you. 

Aggressively Defending Your Life & Liberty

If you were arrested for a DUI, time is of the essence. Consulting a trusted DUI defense attorney is paramount to avoiding the life-changing consequences of a criminal conviction. At Hunsucker Legal Group, our experienced lawyers have decades of experience defending against DUI charges backed by a proven track record of results. Our goal is to safeguard your freedom by providing strategic counsel tailored to your legal circumstances. 

If you were arrested for a DUI, don’t throw away your freedom by failing to secure a strong defense. Contact us online to discuss your case with our skilled attorneys.