The bill amends the Oklahoma Statutes to revise garnishment procedures, specifically extending the response time for garnishees from five days to thirty days. This change allows defendants more time to be notified of garnishments and to file objections, with the court clerk issuing the garnishee summons if no objection is made within the new timeframe. If an objection is filed, the court is required to schedule a hearing promptly within the same thirty-day period. Additionally, the bill clarifies the garnishee's responsibilities, mandating that they file an answer detailing their relationship with the defendant and any claims or defenses within the thirty-day window.

Moreover, the bill establishes that garnishment liens will take precedence over subsequent liens and outlines the conditions for suspending or modifying garnishments. It also specifies that if a garnishee fails to comply with court orders, they may face judgment for the total amount owed to the judgment creditor, including costs and attorney's fees, and could be subject to contempt charges. The court is granted the authority to modify any orders issued under this section, ensuring flexibility in enforcement. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-1173, 12-1173.4, 12-1178