Violent Crimes

Oklahoma City Violent Crime Lawyer

If you have been accused of a violent crime, you are facing severe allegations that could have life-changing consequences. Should you be convicted, you could face many years in prison that could upend your career, ruin relationships, and make it challenging to ever get your life back on track.

With so much on the line, turn to an Oklahoma City violent crime lawyer you can trust to fight for your freedom and future. Call me, Attorney Taylor McLawhorn. I have defended clients against serious state and federal offenses, including all types of violent crimes, as part of my broader criminal defense practice. I take a hands-on approach to cases, crafting defenses that leverage my experience as a prosecutor and defense attorney. Find out how I may help you in a free, one-hour consultation.

When you hire me to defend a violent crime case in Oklahoma City, I handle the work personally instead of passing you off to a junior lawyer or staff member. Early in a case, I focus on getting a clear picture of what happened, what the state can actually prove, and what evidence may be missing or unreliable. I also explain each stage of a violent crime case in Oklahoma, from the initial appearance and bond hearing through the preliminary hearing, plea negotiations, and trial, so you know what to expect before we walk into court together. This one-on-one guidance can relieve some of the stress that comes with being charged and help you make decisions with confidence.

To start with Taylor McLawhorn Attorney at Law, call (405) 504-1858 or reach out online. I represent clients throughout Oklahoma City and nearby areas.

Committed to Working with You Every Step
Available 24/7 and always by your side, I’ll guide you through every stage of your defense with care.
Hands-On Approach to Cases
You’ll work directly with me—no handoffs, no guesswork—just dedicated, personal defense every step of the way.
City, State, & Federal Experience
Skilled in navigating complex cases at every level of the justice system—from local courts to federal trials.
Honest & Experienced Defense Attorney
A former prosecutor who offers straightforward advice and strategic defense built on real courtroom experience.

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Types of Violent Crime Cases I Handle

“Violent crime” is an umbrella term for numerous specific offenses, many of which carry severe federal and state penalties.

You can turn to my practice for defenses against the following charges and others:

Assault and battery - From simple assaults to aggravated charges involving weapons.
Domestic violence - Accusations related to physical disputes within households or families.
Homicide - Including murder, manslaughter, and vehicular homicide.
Robbery and armed robbery - Offenses involving theft combined with the use or threat of force.
Kidnapping - Accusations of unlawfully restraining or transporting another person.
Sexual assault - Allegations involving non-consensual acts of a violent nature.
Gun-related offenses - Crimes involving the illegal possession or use of firearms.

Because some violent crimes fall under federal jurisdiction, having an attorney familiar with federal courts and procedures is crucial. My deep understanding of these processes enables me to defend clients confidently at the state and federal levels. No matter the charge, I am committed to providing a thorough and aggressive defense.

Many of these charges are investigated and filed in courts located in Oklahoma County, such as the District Court in downtown Oklahoma City, and each court has its own unwritten practices and tendencies. Knowing how local judges view different violent offenses, and how prosecutors in Oklahoma City typically approach plea offers, helps me give you realistic advice about the range of outcomes in your case. I also pay close attention to whether your case involves alleged use of a weapon, prior convictions, or vulnerable alleged victims, because those factors often drive filing decisions and potential sentencing exposure in Oklahoma.

Common Defenses to Violent Crime Charges in Oklahoma

Every violent crime case turns on its own facts, but there are recurring defense themes that can make a powerful difference in the outcome. When I evaluate a case, I look for lawful, fact-based ways to challenge what the state claims happened or to show that the evidence does not support the charge that was filed. In Oklahoma County courts, judges and juries are required to apply the law to the evidence presented, which means weak or unreliable proof can and should be exposed. Understanding which defenses may reasonably apply to your case is an important step in planning a path forward.

In many cases, self-defense or defense of others is at the heart of the story. Oklahoma law allows people to protect themselves and those around them in certain situations, but whether that defense succeeds depends on the specific facts—such as who started the confrontation, whether a weapon was used, and whether the response was reasonable under the circumstances. Other cases may focus on misidentification, where a witness or alleged victim is simply wrong about who was involved, or on challenging the credibility of witnesses who may have motives to exaggerate or lie. I also frequently examine whether the state can prove intent, which is a key element in many violent crime charges.

Sometimes the strongest defense strategy involves attacking how the investigation was handled rather than the underlying allegation itself. That may include highlighting incomplete police work, failure to collect or preserve video from locations in Oklahoma City, or inconsistencies between the initial police report and later statements. In other cases, presenting mitigating evidence—such as mental health history, lack of prior record, or efforts at treatment—can help reduce the severity of the charges or potential sentence even when the basic facts are not in dispute. My job is to identify which of these avenues is realistically available and align our approach with your goals.

Oklahoma Penalties for Violent Crimes

Defending against violent crime charges is not just any legal battle. It is a fight for life as you know it.

Convictions for violent crimes in Oklahoma can lead to:

Extensive prison sentences - Offenses like murder and robbery can result in decades or even life behind bars.
Heavy fines - These crimes come with financial penalties (often amounting to hundreds and even thousands of dollars) that can add to the hardships you and your family must face.
Permanent criminal records - A conviction can follow you for the rest of your life, affecting employment and personal relationships.

Beyond the above, the stigma attached to violent crime accusations and convictions can be just as damaging as legal penalties. You may lose friends and support from family and community members and struggle to find employment even after serving your sentence or paying your fines. For these reasons, enlisting the help of a skilled and trustworthy attorney is invaluable if you have been charged with a violent crime.

In Oklahoma, many violent offenses are charged as felonies, and some carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning a judge cannot go below a certain prison term if you are convicted. Prior felony convictions, use of a firearm, or allegations that a victim was seriously injured can increase the potential punishment and limit options like probation or deferred sentences. Part of my role is to carefully explain the sentencing range that applies to your specific charges in Oklahoma County, how parole eligibility generally works, and whether alternatives such as treatment courts, suspended sentences, or reduced charges might realistically be on the table.

How I Defend Violent Crime Cases

Facing violent crime charges is overwhelming, but having a dedicated and experienced defense attorney by your side can make a world of difference. I am here to offer 24/7 guidance and fight allegations head-on.

On behalf of your defense, I may do the following and more:

Conducting a comprehensive case review - I can thoroughly evaluate all evidence, including witness statements, physical evidence, and police reports, to identify any weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution's case.
Challenging admissibility of evidence - From questioning how evidence was obtained to identifying procedural errors, I can work to exclude anything that could unfairly harm your case.
Anticipating the prosecution’s strategy - Having served as a prosecutor, I have unique insight into how the prosecution builds and presents its theory of the case in an effort to obtain a conviction. I can use this knowledge to proactively counter their narrative.
Negotiating where appropriate - If it is in your best interest, I can negotiate plea deals that reduce charges or minimize penalties, but only when it aligns with your desired outcome.
Building a robust trial defense - I am fully prepared to present your case at trial, relying on my years of experience advocating zealously for clients in state and federal courts.
Maintaining open communication - At every stage, I will keep you informed and make certain you understand the steps we must take to defend your case effectively.

In violent crime cases in Oklahoma City, I also look closely at whether law enforcement respected your constitutional rights during the investigation and arrest. This includes examining whether officers had a lawful reason to stop or detain you, whether any search of your home or vehicle was supported by a valid warrant or exception, and whether your statements were obtained after proper Miranda warnings. If I identify violations, I can ask the court to suppress certain evidence, which can significantly strengthen our position in negotiations or at trial. Taking the time to dig into these issues is another way I put my hands-on approach to work for you.

What to Expect After a Violent Crime Arrest in Oklahoma City

If you or a loved one is arrested on a violent crime allegation in Oklahoma City, the process can move quickly and feel confusing. Understanding the basic steps can make the experience more manageable and help you avoid mistakes that could harm your case. While every situation is different, most violent crime cases in Oklahoma County follow a similar path through the criminal justice system, starting from the moment of arrest and continuing through resolution.

After an arrest, you are typically booked into the local jail and may appear before a judge at an initial appearance or arraignment. At that hearing, the court will inform you of the charges, address bond, and set future court dates in the Oklahoma County District Court. It is crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and to request an attorney as early as possible so that you do not unintentionally provide statements that could later be used against you. I can help you understand what conditions of release the court might consider and what information could support a request for a lower bond.

Once formal charges are filed, the case moves into the pretrial phase, which may involve a preliminary hearing, discovery, motion practice, and plea discussions with the district attorney’s office. During this time, I focus on obtaining and reviewing the state’s evidence, identifying legal issues, and advising you about the risks and benefits of all available options. Some violent crime cases resolve through negotiated pleas that reduce exposure, while others are set for trial before a jury in Oklahoma City. From the first court date through the final decision, I will explain what each hearing is about, what could happen there, and how each step fits into the bigger picture of your defense.

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Set Up Your Free, One-Hour Consultation in Oklahoma City

If you are under investigation or have already been charged with a violent crime, time is of the essence. I offer a free, one-hour consultation to discuss your case, evaluate your options, and provide a roadmap for your case. Do not wait to take control of your situation.

During this consultation, I will ask detailed questions about what led up to the arrest, what contact you have had with police so far, and whether you have any upcoming court dates in Oklahoma County. I will also explain what documents or information you should gather right away, such as charging papers, protective orders, or names of potential witnesses, so we can begin building your defense efficiently. My goal is for you to leave that first meeting with a clear understanding of your immediate priorities and how I can help protect your rights going forward.

Call (405) 504-1858 or contact Taylor McLawhorn Attorney at Law online for the representation of an Oklahoma City violent crime attorney you can trust with your defense.