What’s the difference between an indictment and a conviction In Tulsa, Oklahoma?
Although there are a significant differences between the two concepts, the terms indictment and conviction are often misunderstood and taken to be merely different terms for the same concept. However, the difference between the two concepts is significant and is explained below. To find out more information in detail, contact a knowledgeable Tulsa felony defense lawyer.
What is an Indictment in Oklahoma?
An indictment is the formal process by which a grand jury brings a felony charge against an individual.
Certain state felony charges and all federal criminal charges require a grand jury indictment before charges can be filed.
This allows the suspect to 1) respond to the charges and 2) begin to prepare his or her defense.
In Oklahoma, the grand jury consists of 12 members who review the evidence presented by the state prosecutor and decide whether or not there is probable cause to conclude that the suspect committed the crime. The burden of proof here is different than for a conviction, where the guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. A Tulsa felony defense lawyer can discuss an indictment with you in greater depth.
The Difference Between an Indictment and a Conviction in Oklahoma
The main difference between a conviction and an indictment is that an indictment only establishes whether or not there is enough evidence to charge a suspect with a crime. If so, the suspect must then actually be tried and convicted by a judge or jury in a criminal trial.
A conviction, on the other hand, is the actual result of a defendant being found guilty by a judge or jury of his or her peers in a criminal trial, which will then be followed by criminal sentencing. Consult a skilled Tulsa felony defense lawyer for more information about indictments and convictions in Oklahoma.
Confidential Consultation: Tulsa Felony Defense Lawyer
If you are a suspect in any felony proceedings in Tulsa or the surrounding Oklahoma counties, it’s time to reach out to a team that knows how the police and prosecutors in Tulsa operate. Just because you are suspected of a criminal offense doesn’t mean you don’t have legal rights that need to be met. That’s why you need a Tulsa Felony Defense Lawyer who can provide skillful, aggressive and compassionate assistance to your specific case.
Simply call our team at the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm at (918) 256-3400 for a free, no-hassle confidential consultation. If you prefer a felony defense attorney on our team to call you or reach you by email, click here to ask your questions via the easy to fill-out online consultation request form.