Tulsa County Court Records
What Is Tulsa County Court Records
Tulsa County court records comprise the official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records are maintained pursuant to Oklahoma Statutes Title 51, which governs public records in the state. Court records include a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the judicial process from initiation through resolution.
Court records typically contain the following components:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Docket sheets listing chronological case events
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Settlement agreements in civil cases
- Jury verdicts and judicial opinions
It is important to distinguish court records from other public records maintained by Tulsa County. While the Tulsa County Clerk maintains property records, marriage licenses, and other county documents, court records specifically pertain to judicial proceedings and are maintained by the Tulsa County Court Clerk.
The following courts within Tulsa County generate and maintain court records:
- Tulsa County District Court (handling felonies, civil matters over $10,000, probate)
- Tulsa Municipal Court (city ordinance violations, misdemeanors)
- Small Claims Court (civil matters under specified dollar amounts)
- Family Court (divorce, custody, support matters)
- Juvenile Court (delinquency, dependency cases)
According to § 24A.3 of the Oklahoma Open Records Act, court records are defined as "all documents, including without limitation any appendices, pleadings, motions, briefs, memoranda, or other papers filed with a court clerk in connection with any matter or proceeding before a court."
Are Court Records Public In Tulsa County
Court records in Tulsa County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act, codified in Title 51, § 24A.1-29 of the Oklahoma Statutes. This legislation establishes the presumption that government records, including court records, shall be open to the public unless specifically exempted by law.
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions for sealed records)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Court dockets and calendars
- Judgments and orders
- Marriage and divorce records
- Probate proceedings
- Small claims actions
However, pursuant to § 24A.30 of the Oklahoma Open Records Act, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:
- Juvenile proceedings (unless specifically ordered by the court)
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Certain domestic violence and victim information
- Social security numbers and financial account information
The Tulsa County District Court operates under the administrative rules established by the Oklahoma Supreme Court regarding public access to court records. These rules balance the public's right to access with privacy concerns and the efficient administration of justice.
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the Northern District of Oklahoma (which includes Tulsa County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state law, and are accessible through the federal PACER system rather than county resources.
How To Find Court Records in Tulsa County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Tulsa County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county currently maintains both physical and digital systems for record retrieval.
For in-person requests, individuals may visit:
Tulsa County Court Clerk's Office
500 South Denver
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: (918) 596-5000
Tulsa County Court Clerk
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
The procedure for obtaining court records in person is as follows:
- Complete a records request form, available at the clerk's office
- Provide case information (case number, party names, filing date)
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable copy fees ($1.00 per page for certified copies, $0.50 per page for regular copies)
- Wait for staff to retrieve the requested documents
For written requests, individuals may submit a formal letter to the Court Clerk's office that includes:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific case information
- Description of documents requested
- Whether certified copies are needed
- Payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
Pursuant to § 24A.5 of the Oklahoma Open Records Act, the Court Clerk must provide prompt, reasonable access to records during regular business hours. The law stipulates that a public body may establish reasonable procedures for providing access to records but may not deny access for failure to comply with a format preference.
For expedited service, the Court Clerk recommends providing as much specific information about the case as possible, including the full case number if available.
How To Look Up Court Records in Tulsa County Online?
Tulsa County provides digital access to court records through several online portals, each serving different components of the judicial system. These electronic resources allow for remote research of case information without visiting the courthouse.
The primary online resource for Tulsa County court records is the Oklahoma State Courts Network (OSCN), accessible at www.oscn.net. This comprehensive database includes:
- Case dockets and filing information
- Party names and attorney information
- Scheduled hearings and events
- Judgment information
- Case status updates
To conduct a search on OSCN:
- Navigate to the OSCN website
- Select "Case Search" from the main menu
- Choose "Tulsa County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, or filing date)
- Review the results and select specific cases for detailed information
For Tulsa Municipal Court records, a separate system is maintained at www.cityoftulsa.org/government/departments/municipal-court. This portal provides access to:
- Traffic citations
- Municipal ordinance violations
- Court dates and hearing information
- Fine payment options
The Tulsa County District Court website provides additional resources, including:
- Court calendars and dockets
- Local court rules
- Filing fee information
- Downloadable court forms
- Jury service information
For criminal background checks, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation maintains a separate portal at www.ok.gov/osbi that includes criminal history information from Tulsa County and other Oklahoma jurisdictions.
Users should note that while basic case information is available online, complete case files with all pleadings and exhibits may require in-person requests or formal written requests to the Court Clerk's office.
How To Search Tulsa County Court Records for Free?
Tulsa County residents and other interested parties may access certain court records without payment of fees, in accordance with Oklahoma's commitment to government transparency. The Oklahoma Open Records Act, specifically § 24A.5(3), provides that "a public body may charge a fee only for recovery of the reasonable, direct costs of document copying, or mechanical reproduction."
The following free options are available for accessing Tulsa County court records:
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In-person inspection: Individuals may visit the Tulsa County Court Clerk's office during regular business hours to view non-confidential court records without charge. While copying fees apply, examination of records incurs no cost.
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Oklahoma State Courts Network (OSCN): This comprehensive online database at www.oscn.net provides free access to case information, dockets, and some filed documents for Tulsa County cases. The system includes:
- Case docket sheets
- Party and attorney information
- Hearing schedules
- Case status updates
- Selected filed documents
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Tulsa County Law Library: Located at the Tulsa County Courthouse, the law library provides public access terminals for searching court records without charge.
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On Records: The On Records portal provides free access to selected court documents that have been digitized.
For more extensive searches or specialized requests, fees may apply:
- Certified copies: $1.00 per page
- Regular copies: $0.50 per page
- Record searches requiring extensive staff time: $25 per hour after the first hour (pursuant to § 24A.5(4))
The Tulsa County District Court website provides additional information about available records and access procedures. Users should note that while basic record searches are free, some specialized searches or bulk data requests may incur reasonable fees as permitted by Oklahoma law.
What's Included in a Tulsa County Court Record?
Tulsa County court records contain comprehensive documentation of judicial proceedings, with contents varying by case type. These records provide an official chronology of court actions and submitted materials in accordance with Oklahoma court rules and statutes.
Civil case records typically include:
- Petition or complaint initiating the action
- Summons and proof of service
- Responsive pleadings (answers, counterclaims)
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
- Affidavits and declarations
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts (when prepared)
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Final disposition documents
Criminal case records generally contain:
- Charging documents (information, indictment)
- Arrest warrant or summons
- Arraignment records
- Bond information
- Motions and briefs
- Plea agreements
- Pre-sentence investigation reports (often confidential)
- Sentencing documents
- Probation terms and conditions
- Appeal notices and documents
Family court records may include:
- Petitions for divorce or separation
- Child custody and support orders
- Parenting plans
- Financial affidavits
- Property division agreements
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Paternity determinations
- Adoption proceedings (often confidential)
Probate records typically contain:
- Wills and codicils
- Petitions for probate
- Letters testamentary or of administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Creditor claims
- Accountings
- Distribution plans
- Final decrees
The Tulsa County Court Clerk maintains these records in accordance with Oklahoma Supreme Court rules and the Oklahoma Court Clerks' Handbook. Certain sensitive information may be redacted or sealed pursuant to § 24A.30 of the Oklahoma Open Records Act and applicable court rules.
How Long Does Tulsa County Keep Court Records?
Tulsa County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Oklahoma Supreme Court and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries' Archives and Records Commission. These schedules vary by record type and case classification, ensuring appropriate preservation of judicial documents.
The primary retention periods for Tulsa County court records are as follows:
- Felony Cases: Permanent retention for murder and manslaughter cases; 75 years for other violent felonies; 25 years for non-violent felonies
- Misdemeanor Cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Traffic Cases: 5 years after final disposition
- Civil Cases: 10 years after final judgment or last activity
- Domestic Relations Cases: 30 years after final decree
- Probate Cases: Permanent retention
- Juvenile Cases: Until subject reaches age 21, then sealed or destroyed pursuant to § 2-6-108 of the Oklahoma Juvenile Code
- Small Claims: 10 years after final disposition
- Mental Health Proceedings: 30 years after final order
Court dockets and indexes are maintained permanently to provide a historical record of all cases filed within the county. Judgment dockets are also retained permanently due to their ongoing legal significance.
The Oklahoma Records Management Act, codified at Title 67, § 201-216, establishes the legal framework for records retention throughout the state. This legislation authorizes the Archives and Records Commission to establish retention schedules for government records, including court documents.
After the designated retention period expires, records may be transferred to the Oklahoma State Archives, microfilmed, digitized, or destroyed according to approved procedures. Historical records of significant value may be preserved beyond the minimum retention requirements.
The Tulsa County Court Clerk can provide specific information about the retention status of particular case records upon request.
Types of Courts In Tulsa County
Tulsa County's judicial system encompasses multiple courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority. These courts operate within Oklahoma's unified court system under the administrative oversight of the Oklahoma Supreme Court.
Tulsa County District Court
500 South Denver
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: (918) 596-5000
Tulsa County District Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The District Court is Tulsa County's court of general jurisdiction, handling felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $10,000, probate proceedings, family law cases, and appeals from lower courts. Multiple judges preside over specialized dockets within the District Court.
Tulsa Municipal Criminal Court
600 Civic Center
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: (918) 596-7900
Tulsa Municipal Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Municipal Court handles violations of city ordinances, traffic infractions, and certain misdemeanors occurring within Tulsa city limits.
Tulsa County Small Claims Court
500 South Denver
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: (918) 596-5000
Tulsa County Small Claims Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Small Claims Court provides an expedited process for civil disputes involving claims up to $10,000, with simplified procedures designed for litigants without attorneys.
Tulsa County Juvenile Court
315 South Gilcrease Museum Road
Tulsa, OK 74127
Phone: (918) 596-5970
Tulsa County Juvenile Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Juvenile Court handles delinquency cases, child welfare matters, and adoptions, with proceedings generally closed to the public.
The court hierarchy in Oklahoma proceeds from Municipal and District Courts to the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals or Court of Criminal Appeals, with the Oklahoma Supreme Court serving as the final authority on civil matters and constitutional questions. The Tulsa County Court Clerk provides administrative support to these courts, maintaining records and facilitating public access to court documents.
What Types of Cases Do Tulsa County Courts Hear?
Tulsa County's court system adjudicates a diverse range of legal matters, with jurisdiction determined by case type, monetary value, and geographic boundaries. Each court within the county handles specific categories of cases as prescribed by Oklahoma law.
The Tulsa County District Court has jurisdiction over:
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Criminal Cases
- Felonies (murder, robbery, drug trafficking, etc.)
- Misdemeanors not handled by Municipal Court
- Criminal appeals from Municipal Court
-
Civil Litigation
- Personal injury claims
- Contract disputes
- Property litigation
- Civil matters exceeding $10,000
- Administrative appeals
- Civil rights cases
-
Family Law Matters
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support and alimony
- Paternity determinations
- Guardianships
- Domestic violence protective orders
-
Probate Proceedings
- Will validations
- Estate administration
- Trust litigation
- Conservatorships
- Mental health commitments
Tulsa Municipal Court handles:
- Traffic violations within city limits
- City ordinance violations
- Public intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Other minor misdemeanors occurring in Tulsa
Tulsa County Small Claims Court adjudicates:
- Civil disputes up to $10,000
- Landlord-tenant matters
- Consumer claims
- Minor property damage cases
- Collection of small debts
Tulsa County Juvenile Court presides over:
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Child in need of supervision cases
- Dependency and neglect matters
- Termination of parental rights
- Adoptions
- Juvenile guardianships
According to § 28-103 of the Oklahoma Statutes, district courts "shall have unlimited original jurisdiction of all justiciable matters, except as otherwise provided in this article." This broad grant of authority makes the Tulsa County District Court the primary judicial forum for most significant legal matters within the county.
How To Find a Court Docket In Tulsa County
Court dockets in Tulsa County provide the official schedule of proceedings and chronological listing of actions taken in each case. These essential records are accessible through multiple channels, allowing attorneys, litigants, and interested members of the public to monitor case progress.
The most comprehensive method for accessing Tulsa County court dockets is through the Oklahoma State Courts Network (OSCN) at www.oscn.net. This online portal provides:
- Case-specific docket sheets listing all filings and court actions
- Daily court calendars showing scheduled hearings
- Judge assignment information
- Filing dates and document descriptions
- Party and attorney information
To search for a docket on OSCN:
- Select "Dockets" from the main menu
- Choose "Tulsa County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, or filing date)
- Review results and select specific cases for detailed docket information
For in-person docket inquiries, individuals may visit:
Tulsa County Court Clerk's Office
500 South Denver
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: (918) 596-5000
Tulsa County Court Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Court Clerk maintains public access terminals where visitors can search dockets without charge. Staff can assist with locating specific case information and explaining docket entries.
For Tulsa Municipal Court dockets, a separate system is maintained at www.cityoftulsa.org/government/departments/municipal-court. This portal provides access to municipal violation dockets and hearing schedules.
Daily court calendars are also posted on bulletin boards throughout the Tulsa County Courthouse, listing cases scheduled for hearing that day, organized by courtroom and judge.
Pursuant to § 24A.5 of the Oklahoma Open Records Act, court dockets are public records that must be made available for inspection during regular business hours. The Tulsa County District Court maintains these records in accordance with Oklahoma Supreme Court administrative directives.
Which Courts in Tulsa County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Tulsa County's judicial system, certain courts operate as "courts not of record," meaning they do not maintain official verbatim transcripts of their proceedings. This distinction affects appeal procedures and the preservation of case documentation.
According to § 28-101 of the Oklahoma Statutes, courts not of record are tribunals "whose proceedings are not required by law to be transcribed verbatim." In Tulsa County, the following courts function as courts not of record:
-
Tulsa Municipal Criminal Court (Non-OCIS Division)
- Handles violations of city ordinances and minor misdemeanors
- Proceedings are summarized rather than transcribed verbatim
- Appeals from this court proceed to District Court as trials de novo (new trials)
- Court maintains basic case information but not complete transcripts
-
Small Claims Division of District Court
- While technically part of the District Court, small claims proceedings
- Utilizes simplified procedures with relaxed rules of evidence
- Proceedings are not typically transcribed unless specifically requested
- Appeals are conducted as new trials in the regular civil division
It is important to note that the Tulsa Municipal Criminal Court for offenses punishable by imprisonment operates as a court of record pursuant to § 28-101(B), which states that "municipal courts which exercise jurisdiction in criminal cases which are punishable by a fine of more than $200.00 or by imprisonment" must function as courts of record.
The primary implications of a court not being a court of record include:
- Appeals involve completely new trials rather than reviews of the original proceedings
- The appellate court does not review a transcript for errors
- Evidentiary rulings and legal arguments must be presented anew on appeal
- The burden of proof remains with the original plaintiff
All other courts in Tulsa County, including the District Court's general civil and criminal divisions, function as courts of record, maintaining verbatim transcripts of proceedings that serve as the official record for appellate review.