Civil Rights of a Convicted Felon in Oklahoma

Those convicted of felonies lose many of their normal civil rights as a result.

In most states, including Oklahoma, a convicted felon is essentially stripped of his civil rights, depending on local case law. Convicted felons, though, do have the right to appeal convictions and to have voting rights restored when their sentences are completed. They may not be subjected to cruel or unusual punishment.

Cruel and Unusual Punishment

While felons have limited civil rights, the U.S. Constitution prohibits the use of "cruel and unusual punishment" against any convicted prisoner. Supreme Court decisions have carefully defined cruel and unusual punishment over the years. The Constitution of Oklahoma also contains this provision.

Restoration of Right to Vote

In Oklahoma, felons are still entitled to the right to vote, although the state suspends this right for the duration of the punishment. Oklahoma law establishes that a felon automatically regains his right to vote when the maximum sentence for the crime has elapsed.

Right to Appeal Conviction

A convicted felon in Oklahoma has the right to appeal his conviction to a higher court.

A convicted felon in Oklahoma is given the right to appeal his conviction to a higher court---resulting, in some cases, in the conviction being overturned. This right is protected in the Oklahoma Statutes by the Oklahoma Post-Conviction Procedure Act.

References

• Constitution of the State of Oklahoma
• National Conference of State Legislatures: Voting Rights Restoration Process
• Kevin D. Adams, Attorney at Law: Post-Conviction Relief

Resources

• FindLaw: Oklahoma Civil Rights Laws