Oklahoma Concealed Weapon Charges

Oklahoma is a “shall-issue” state, which means a concealed weapon permit will be issued to people who have successfully completed a safety course by a licensed instructor. All applicants must be able to pass a background check that will be conducted by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. All applications must be signed in person and under oath in front of the county sheriff where the individual resides. Concealed weapon permits are valid for a period of 5 years.

Oklahoma's Weapons Laws

Oklahoma is not as liberal as some states; openly carrying a loaded handgun in public is illegal. However, you don't need a permit to purchase or possess a shotgun, rifle or handgun.

If you do have a valid concealed weapon permit, you are still prohibited from carrying your firearm into the following places:

• Any government building
• Any place where appointed or elected officials are having a meeting
• The property of any elementary, secondary, vocational or technical school
• All college and university campuses
• Any jail, prison or detention facility
• All sports arenas while a professional sporting event is underway
• Any place where parimutuel betting is legal
• Any place prohibited by federal law

If you are detained by law enforcement for any reason, you must inform them you have a concealed weapon with a permit.

Weapon Violations and Penalties

Oklahoma's weapon violations and penalties are listed below.

Plea Options in Oklahoma

Once you have been arrested, a criminal complaint will be filed against you in superior court. At the arraignment, you must enter a plea of not guilty, guilty or no contest. Pleading no contest is essentially the same as a guilty plea, but you cannot be held responsible for your actions in a civil court.

Following the arraignment, defense counsel will obtain discovery information. This includes all the evidence the prosecution has against you. The next hearing is called the “readiness conference,” where the prosecutor and defense attorney determine if a plea bargain can be reached.

Consulting an Oklahoma Criminal Defense Attorney

When you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney, you receive help in working out a solution that is best in your case. If you have a prior criminal record, you may not be eligible for a diversion program. But skilled lawyers know how to present a strong defense and may arrange a plea arrangement. Contact an Oklahoma criminal defense lawyer if you are facing criminal charges.