Oklahoma courts issue protective orders to protect victims from harm in cases where the victim can show a history of violence or the threat of violence from a particular person. They are often issued in cases of domestic abuse.
Typically, a protective order in Tulsa, Oklahoma prohibits contact between the victim and the perpetrator of the threat. But it can also prohibit threats, harassment, and stalking. Okla. Stat. tit. 22 § 60
Once a protective order is issued by a court, if contact is made, often the perpetrator will go to jail. Here are some things about protective orders that may be helpful to know.
What a Protective Order in Tulsa Covers
Contact can be a term of art in a protective order in Tulsa. It can include all sorts of contact, intended or not, including: following a person, appearing within their sight, approaching or confronting that person, appearing at the person’s work, residence, or other property owned or occupied by that person.
In addition, you may not call, text, email, or send mail to that person. In essence, no contact means no contact of any kind. Finally, you may not ask friends or relatives to make contact with that person either.
Sometimes, contact may be accidental. You can accidentally run into each other at a public location or at a work event if the two of you work for the same company. If that is the case, it is important that you do not try to explain the situation to the victim. Instead, leave the area quickly and quietly. Also, immediately contact a qualified Tulsa criminal defense attorney for assistance.
Penalties are Severe
If you violate a protective order in Tulsa, the penalty imposed will depend on several factors, including the number of prior violations and whether any physical injury results from the contact. Initial violation of a protective order is a misdemeanor offense punishable by a jail term of up to one year, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
Penalties become harsher with repeated violations. A subsequent violation of a protective order in Tulsa is treated as a felony crime with a prison term of one to three years, along with a fine from $2,000 to $10,000.
The crime is much more serious if you cause the victim any physical injury. Although the initial violation is still treated as a misdemeanor, fines are increased up to $5,000. A subsequent violation resulting in injury is treated as a felony offense, with one to five years in prison and a fine from $3,000 to $10,000.
These sentences are not eligible for probation, deferred sentencing, or suspended sentencing. That means if convicted, you will spend more time behind bars.
In addition, the court may order you to undergo counseling or make you wear a 24-hour GPS device.
Initial Strategy Session: Tulsa Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know has been accused of violating a protective order in Tulsa, please contact a Tulsa criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
Consult with an experienced Tulsa attorney today by calling 918-756-9600.
If you prefer, you can use the box in the upper right-hand corner of this page to send a question or brief message.