CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Lawyers

lf in a situation where you are facing a serious criminal charge in Oklahoma, it is of vital importance that you seek the help of a skilled Oklahoma criminal defense lawyer, like those found here at Lai & Turner.

What To Say & Do If You Are Arrested

Lai & Turner is not in the business of “getting guilty people off.” That is not what criminal defense is about. The truth is, in real life, most of the time, the police, grand jury, or district attorney allege a correct charge against a defendant, and a conviction will result. However, it is equally true that an experienced defense attorney can have a great impact on how the process evolves and how the process resolves.

How the arrest process evolves often depends on what the “arrestee” (the person arrested) says and does in the immediate moments and hours following their arrest. Here, heeding the advice to remain silent once the police have read you your Miranda Rights is a smart thing to do, even if you sincerely believe that by cooperating with them, they will “give you a break.” Do not be rude or aggressive; simply state that you are exercising your right to remain silent. 

(Note; it is often a smart idea to remain silent before you are arrested. You can refuse to speak to the police at any time and ask to contact your lawyer, not just after you have been arrested. Understand, when being questioned by the police in any matter, the police are allowed by law to lie to you, and often do so in order to intimidate you to incriminate yourself or others. Moreover, even after they read you your Miranda Rights, they can lie to you.)

In the immediate hours following arrest, several things will occur. This is a solemn and often depressing time for arrestees, but you must try to maintain your composure, maintain your right to silence, and try not to say or do anything to worsen your situation.

By law, the police must complete certain “process” tasks within certain strict timeframes. Eventually, you will be allowed to call an attorney or if you cannot afford an attorney, a court-appointed attorney will contact you. At this point, your destiny may be mapped out for you, and much will be determined whether you have a court-appointed attorney, a Lai & Turner criminal defense attorney, or another attorney representing your legal interests.

Criminal Defense Basics

Forget everything you have ever seen on TV or a movie about criminal defense attorneys. It does not happen like that in real life, guaranteed. In real life, being arrested by the police, or indicted for an alleged crime by a grand jury or district attorney’s office, sets in motion a life-altering series of events that, regardless of your guilt or innocence, causes unbearable stress, worry, depression, anger, embarrassment, confusion, and uncertainty in the arrestee’s life and for the arrestee’s entire family. In the end, it is extremely rare that a star defense attorney presents a mystery witness or alternate theory that proves the police were wrong from the start!

The outcome of going through an arrest and trial can be equally devastating and often worse. Even if you are found “not guilty,” – or “acquitted” – defending yourself will cost you money, emotional stability, perhaps your job, and perhaps the loss of friends, family, and acquaintances who have nonetheless convicted you in the court of public opinion. And if you are convicted, you may face the prospect of probation, jail or prison, and perhaps extreme financial burdens for years to come.

 
Your Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys in Oklahoma City
At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with facing criminal charges. As The People's Attorneys, we are committed to providing top-notch legal representation to individuals in Oklahoma City and beyond. If you're in need of a skilled criminal attorney in OKC, look no further. Our team consists of experienced criminal defense attorneys who are well-versed in Oklahoma's legal system. Whether you're facing charges for DUI, drug crimes, or any other criminal offense, we have the knowledge and experience to defend your rights aggressively.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Criminal Cases

When it comes to criminal defense, having a knowledgeable and dedicated attorney by your side can make all the difference. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we offer comprehensive legal support for a wide range of criminal charges in Oklahoma City. From minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, our team has the skills and resources to handle even the most complex cases. We understand the intricacies of criminal law in Oklahoma and will work tirelessly to achieve the experience possible outcome for your case.

Hiring A Lai & Turner Criminal Defense Attorney

Why Choose Us as Your Criminal Defense Lawyers in OKC

Choosing the right attorney is crucial when facing criminal charges. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we pride ourselves on being among the highly reviewed criminal defense attorneys in Oklahoma City. Here's why you should trust us with your case: 

Experience

With years of experience in criminal defense, our attorneys have successfully represented countless clients in OKC and beyond.

Professional

We specialize in various areas of criminal law, including DUI, drug crimes, assault, and more. No matter the charges you're facing, we have the knowledge to defend you effectively.

Personalized Approach

We understand that every case is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to each client. You can count on us to tailor our legal strategies to your specific needs and circumstances.

Proven Track Record

Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have achieved favorable outcomes for many clients, earning us a reputation as trusted and reliable criminal defense attorneys in Oklahoma City.

CONSULTATION

You will tell us your story, and we will ask you many questions. All discussions are private and protected by what is called “attorney/client privilege.” It is critical that you be totally honest about what happened to lead to your arrest. Just tell your Lai & Turner criminal defense attorney the facts. We will ask questions to establish the necessary context, but you must supply us with the facts first and foremost. The initial consultation is our starting point to strategize your defense, and we will thoroughly explain to you what to expect at every step along the way. 

If you tell us you are, in fact, guilty of a crime:

Our strategy is to protect your rights, evaluate the evidence, and present your defense in a manner that mitigates your culpability and eventual legal consequences. However, absent your outright plea to being guilty of any charge(s), it is important to understand that the prosecutor must prove your guilt beyond all reasonable doubt. 

If you tell us you are, in fact, innocent of the charge(s) against you:

Our strategy is to challenge any evidence that is presented against you to win a dismissal or acquittal of the charge(s).

Upon conclusion of the initial consultation:

Together we will decide if there is a fit between us; specifically, if you want to hire us, and if we want to take on your case. If we agree to represent you, we will draft an engagement letter for your approval and signature.

Lai & Turner Law Firm currently handles criminal defense cases in the State of Oklahoma.

If you are arrested or have been charged with a criminal offense (either a misdemeanor or a felony), it is critical to retain Lai & Turner as soon as possible. The earlier in your case we become involved in your case, the more effective we can be in protecting your rights immediately. 

Depending on your situation, our first contact with you may be while you are being held in custody. However, if you have been released (bail or own recognizance), our first contact may be by phone, zoom, or in person.

Thereafter, most criminal cases will follow a specific routine:

FORMAL ENGAGEMENT

Once we are formally engaged, we will notify the police or District Attorney’s office.

By law, the “state” is required to turn over certain evidence to us so we can properly defend you. Part of our role is to hold the state accountable for full disclosure of case evidence and protect your rights by verifying the truthfulness and completeness of the evidence provided. There are two main types of evidence the state is required to disclose;

  • “Inculpatory evidence” is evidence that the state will use against you to prove your guilt.

  • “Exculpatory evidence” is evidence that is favorable to you, which we will use to defend you against the state.

We will challenge the state if they have violated your rights in any way, including seeking a dismissal of the charge(s).

We may deem it necessary to have a preliminary hearing where witnesses are called to give evidence. At this hearing, the judge will decide whether there is probable cause to continue the case to trial or whether the evidence is insufficient to continue with charge(s).

During this process, we are in regular communication with the District Attorney’s office. We determine whether your case may be eligible to be dismissed, whether a plea deal is possible, or whether we should prepare for a trial.

IF A TRIAL IS REQUIRED

If a trial is required, we will prepare a trial strategy, arrange to subpoena necessary witnesses, obtain any additional documents and evidence favorable to your defense, and prepare all witnesses as to what to expect when they are called to testify.

We consult with you throughout every phase of your defense to ensure your rights are protected, that you are fully aware of the progress of the proceedings, and ensure that you are making fully informed decisions about your case based on the facts of your case, the disclosures of evidence against you, and our recommendations to you.

It is critical that you abide by all laws and rulings that may be made during Lai & Turner representing you. You must abide by all bail conditions. You must appear at all hearings and other proceedings as may be required by the court. If you breach any bail condition or court order, you will be subject to arrest and detainment. As well, Lai & Turner may terminate representation, and you will be liable for all representation costs and fees up to the point of termination.

Along the way, an outcome is achieved; dismissal or plea agreement without a trial, or a guilt or acquittal verdict at trial.

You have a right to appeal if you are found guilty at trial. In such an event, we will assess the verdict and advise you on what grounds, if any, would be favorable for an appeal.

Being arrested for any alleged crime is a life-changing event.
Lai & Turner will agressively protect your rights and represent your interests to ensure a just outcome.