Proud Past, Bright Future

The History of the Judicial Branch

With a rich history that spans back to the 1800s, the Choctaw Nation Judicial Court system has seen many changes over the years, culminating with the opening of our new Judicial Center. Learn the history and celebrate the future of our proud Choctaw Nation judiciary heritage.

The History Of The Choctaw Nation Court System

The Choctaw Nation Court system, implemented in 1832, continues to deliver a sustainable system of justice for our citizens. As the Choctaw Nation has grown, the Judicial Branch has grown with it, serving citizens with a judiciary process dedicated to fair justice with integrity and compassion.

Our Judicial Department Then & Now

Built in 1884 on the Choctaw Nation historical capitol grounds in Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma, the original Council House still stands today as a representation of our proud history.

The new Choctaw Nation Judicial Center, located in Durant, Oklahoma, opened in March 2019. Designed to pay tribute to the look of the original Council House, the Judicial Center is fully modernized with the latest technology and security. It houses three courtrooms, offices for justices, court officials and associates, and additional rooms for new and existing programs of the Judicial Branch.

The History of Our Judicial Branch

The history of the Choctaw Nation in Oklahoma began in 1820 when tribal leaders in central Mississippi signed the Treaty of Doak’s Stand, leading to the Choctaw people being removed to Oklahoma. In 1838, the Choctaw reestablished their government by adopting a new constitution. At that time, the Choctaw Nation was divided into three districts: Apukshunnubbee, Mushulatubbee, and Pushmataha. Chiefs of the three districts formed an executive branch, a legislative branch via a representative council, and a judicial branch.

The Judicial Branch of Today

The Choctaw Nation Judicial Branch has undergone many changes in the years following its establishment. Through it all, the Judicial Branch has remained a voice for the people, carrying forth many of the traditional Choctaw values while offering citizens a safe place to seek justice.

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