Bill No. 632 proposes the creation of a business court division within the district courts of Oklahoma, specifically targeting counties with populations over 500,000. The legislation establishes two distinct business court divisions: Business Court Division I in Oklahoma County and Business Court Division II in Tulsa County. It outlines the qualifications for judges in these divisions, requiring them to be at least 35 years old, U.S. citizens, and licensed attorneys with a minimum of ten years of relevant legal experience. Judges will serve six-year terms and may be reappointed. The bill also details the jurisdiction of the business court, allowing it to handle various commercial disputes, and introduces a new salary structure for judges that aligns with U.S. district court judges.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legal procedures regarding the transfer of actions to business courts, stipulating that once a notice of removal is filed, the original court must promptly transfer the case to the business court. It establishes that all pleadings will be governed by the Oklahoma Pleading Code unless stated otherwise. A significant provision mandates that non-jury trials in business courts be resolved within twelve months from the filing date, with the possibility of extension if both parties agree. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20-125
Floor (Senate): 20-125
Engrossed: 20-125