Oklahoma is a state that takes the Second Amendment right to bear arms seriously, with many citizens owning firearms. However, it’s important to understand that if you violate the law, your rights as an American can be withdrawn. One such right is the right to own a firearm. If you’ve been previously convicted of a felony offense you’ll want to keep reading to learn how a felony will impact your Constitutional rights and why connecting with an Oklahoma City felony defense lawyer if you are caught with a firearm with a prior felony conviction on your record.
Can a Convicted Felon Own a Firearm in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has some of the most lax gun laws in the country, allowing its citizens the right to bear arms in open and concealed manners. However, there are some instances in which you can have this right revoked. Generally, if you are convicted of committing a felony offense, it is illegal for you to own or possess a firearm. This is true regardless of where you are when carrying the weapon.
It’s important to understand that in addition to felony offenses, you will be barred from possessing a firearm if you are convicted of domestic abuse, stalking, or violating domestic protective orders.
What Are the Penalties if I’m Caught?
If you are a convicted felon and you are found in possession of a firearm, it’s imperative to understand that you will face intense penalties for this. Possessing a firearm following a felony conviction is a criminal offense and not one that is taken lightly in Oklahoma. You will face a felony charge, and if convicted, you can face a mandatory minimum of two years with the potential for up to ten years in prison and incur a fine of $10,000.
You should also understand that in Oklahoma, your prior offenses can act as aggravating factors, meaning you can face more intense consequences based on your previous crimes. As such, you may face increased jail time if you are caught in possession of a firearm following a violent felony conviction.
To prove that you broke the law, the protection must be able to prove four different elements to secure a conviction. This includes that you knowingly and willfully possess a firearm after being convicted of a felony offense. You should also know that in Oklahoma, you can be charged based on constructive possession. Essentially, this means that you can face charges even if you aren’t in physical possession of the weapon but have easy access to it.
As you can see, these matters are not something that should be taken lightly. It is imperative to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible if you are charged with possession of a firearm following a felony conviction in Oklahoma. At the Jones Firm, PLLC, we understand how complicated these matters can be. Our firm is dedicated to fighting for the rights of those facing criminal charges. When you’re in trouble, we can help. Contact us today for more.
