At Brownstone Law, we specialize in appellate litigation, offering dedicated representation to clients navigating Oklahoma’s complex appellate court system and federal district courts. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing meticulous and effective advocacy to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Oklahoma Appellate Court System Overview

Oklahoma’s judicial system features a unique structure with two courts of last resort:

  • Oklahoma Supreme Court: This court holds final appellate jurisdiction over all civil matters. Comprising nine justices, the Supreme Court also oversees the administration of the state’s judicial system.
  • Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals: As the highest court for criminal cases, it consists of five judges who review appeals from lower courts in criminal matters.
  • Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals: Serving as the intermediate appellate court for civil cases, it consists of twelve judges divided into four panels, with two panels sitting in Oklahoma City and two in Tulsa.

Caseload and Statistics

Specific caseload statistics for Oklahoma’s appellate courts are not readily available in the provided sources. However, according to the National Center for State Courts, in 1989, state courts across the U.S. reported over 98 million new case filings, with approximately 229,000 direct appeals and petitions filed in state appellate courts.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Oklahoma are governed by specific rules depending on the nature of the case:

  • Civil Appeals: The Oklahoma Supreme Court oversees civil appellate procedures. Detailed rules can be found on the Oklahoma Supreme Court’s official website.
  • Criminal Appeals: The Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals provides comprehensive rules for criminal cases, accessible here.

Process for Appealing a Case

  1. Notice of Appeal: File a notice of appeal with the trial court clerk within the prescribed timeframe after the judgment or order.
  2. Preparation of the Record: Compile the record on appeal, including transcripts and relevant documents, to be submitted to the appellate court.
  3. Briefs: The appellant submits an initial brief outlining legal arguments and alleged errors in the trial court’s decision. The appellee responds with their brief, and the appellant may file a reply brief if necessary.
  4. Oral Argument: In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments, allowing attorneys to present their positions and answer judges’ questions.
  5. Decision: After reviewing the materials and arguments, the court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.

High-Profile Cases

Oklahoma’s appellate courts have presided over several notable cases. For instance, the U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned the conviction of Richard Glossip, an Oklahoma death row inmate, citing prosecutorial misconduct and ordering a new trial.

Contact Information

Oklahoma Supreme Court

Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals

Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals

  • Oklahoma City Division
    • Address: 1915 N Stiles Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73105
  • Tulsa Division
    • Address: 440 S Houston Ave, Tulsa, OK 74127

Federal District Courts in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is served by three federal district courts:

  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

At Brownstone Law, we are dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the appellate process in Oklahoma. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing exceptional representation, ensuring that your case is presented with the utmost precision and expertise.