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Judges are a crucial part of the legal system, affecting everything from criminal sentencing to a law’s constitutionality.
On November 5, 2024, Oklahoma voters will be asked to weigh in on whether or not twelve of the state’s judges will serve another term. To help you make informed decisions, we’ve compiled publicly-available information on each.
The ballot-specific information provided in this tool will be added to our full Judicial GuideTM, a resource for election-season research as well as year-round insight into who’s holding the gavel during specific proceedings.
Disclaimer: The information provided for each candidate has been compiled from publicly available information.
Visit the OK Voter Portal website to find your polling place, see your voting districts, view sample ballots, and more.
ADA = Assistant District Attorney
JD = Juris Doctorate (law degree)
Featured guides are not endorsed by Metriarch®. They are for reference purposes only.
Oklahomans for Health & Parental Rights (OKHPR)
District Court Judges oversee almost all civil and criminal matters in their jurisdiction, including anything from divorces to homicides. There are 26 district court judicial districts in Oklahoma, which can have one or multiple district judges and serve one or multiple counties.
Elections for district judge are nonpartisan and happen every four years. Candidates for district judge must be a practicing lawyer or judge for at least the past four years and must live in the districts in which they seek election.
Associate District Court Judges also oversee many of the civil and criminal matters in their jurisdiction. There is one associate district judge per county.
Elections for associate district judge are nonpartisan and happen every four years. Associate judges must have been practicing lawyers or judges for at least the past two years and must live in the districts in which they seek election.
Comanche, Cotton, Jefferson, and Stephens Counties
Russell is the sitting Associate District Judge in Stephens County appointed by Governor Brad Henry in 2006. Judge Russell is a former ADA in Stephens County. Judge Rusell has sentenced at least one defendant to death.
Education/Career: Russell obtained his bachelor's degree in political science and public affairs from Oklahoma State University in 1981 and his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1985. He had prior experience as a partner at Ellis, Leonard, Buckholts and Russell.
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Lewis is the current Stephens County ADA and former criminal defense attorney. Here is a report about a case Lewis defended as a criminal defense attorney. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2010.
West currently works as a public defender for the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System. He is a former Assistant City Attorney and prosecutor for the City of Lawton; former ADA and Mental Health Coordinator for Comanche County. West also served as a Judge and the President of the Board of Directors for Teen Court Inc. in Lawton. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1997.
Education/Career: West obtained his JD from Oklahoma City University in 1997.
Community/Personal: West volunteers in leadership with the American Cancer Society, the March of Dimes, Lawton Community Theatre Board of Directors, and Arts for All, Inc. In addition to these leadership roles, West also is a member of First Presbyterian Church, Southwest Pride Barbershop Chorus, Lawton/Cameron Civic Chorale, and the Lawton Philharmonic Chorus.
Election Website: https://www.west4judge.com
Currently Walker is a defense attorney, solo practitioner, focusing in the following areas of law: personal injury, family law, criminal defense (federal and state), DUI/DWI, employment, insurance, malpractice, mediation, nursing home negligence, estate planning, and wrongful death. West has prior experience working in the Comanche County District Attorney’s Office as an ADA. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1982.
Education/Career: Walker obtained a BA in History and Physical Education in 1974 from Cameron University and earned a JD in 1982 from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Walker previously ran for this position in 2014. Walker is a former Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics' Prosecutor of the Year. Admitted to the Oklahoma Bar in 1982.
Member of the following: Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association; The Association of American Trial Lawyers; Oklahoma Trial Lawyers Association; United States Supreme Court; United States Court Of Appeals 10th Circuit; and Western District Court of Oklahoma.
Community/Personal: Resides in Lawton, Oklahoma.
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Meaders is the Chief Judge for Comanche County and is running for reelection. He was appointed District Judge for Comanche and Cotton Counties by Governor Mary Fallin in 2017. His docket primarily consists of large civil cases, felony criminal cases, and cases involving family law. On why he is running, Meaders states, “It’s been an honor to serve as District Judge for Comanche, Cotton, Stephens and Jefferson counties the past 5 years. I have the experience and patience to carefully consider both sides of any dispute and reach a decision. My record shows a successful, common-sense approach to resolving cases fairly and impartially. With your help, I will continue to do so.” Judge Meaders has served as district judge for Comanche, Cotton, Stephens and Jefferson counties for the past 5 years. Judge Meaders currently serves as the chief judge for Comanche county.
Education/Career: Meaders graduated from Lawton High School in 1985 and then went on to earn his bachelors of arts from the University of Oklahoma in 1989 and his law degree from Oklahoma City University in 1995. Meaders has 22 years of service in the Army Reserve and holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves and serves as a reserve military judge assigned to the Third Judicial District where he presides over general and special court-martial cases. In addition to his civilian education, Meaders is a graduate of the following military schools: the Judge Advocate General's Officer Basic Course, Charlottesville, Virginia (2002); the Judge Advocate General's Officer Advanced Course, Charlottesville, Virginia (2008); the Command and General Staff College, Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas (2012); the Military Judge Course, Charlottesville, Virginia (2020). Meaders was mobilized and deployed to Iraq in 2008 for a one-year combat tour, earning a bronze star for his service.
Meaders has 26 years of legal experience, including work in private practice, as an ADA for Comanche County , as deputy city attorney for Lawton, and as a district judge for the past 5 years.
Personal/Community: Meaders is an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Great Plains AMBUCS.
Election website: https://votemeaders.com
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Cox currently is a solo practitioner and his areas of practice are: domestic relations law; personal injury; and criminal law. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1984.
Education/Career: Cox obtained a JD from the University of Oklahoma in 1984.
Sheperd was appointed as special judge for Comanche County in 2019, and has presided over misdemeanor and felony arraignments, felony preliminary hearings and protective order cases and small claims cases. On why he serves as a judge, Sheperd states, “I will be an experienced and dedicated judge intent on firmly but fairly delivering justice for the people of Southwest Oklahoma.”
Education/Career: Sheperd earned his undergraduate and law degrees at the University of Oklahoma. He was in private practice for eight years before joining the court.
Personal/Community: Sheperd is a self-proclaimed strict Constitutionalist and believes in limited government and that the courts must be viewed as impartial. He attends church at First Baptist Lawton. Sheperd is on the board of Lawton AMBUCS, which helps create mobility and independence for people with disabilities
Election website: https://grantsheperd.com
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Also on the ballot:
Associate District Judges
Stephens County
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Oklahoma County
Appointed by Governor Stitt in July 2020, Judge Stinson currently is Oklahoma County Special Judge hearing cases on the family and domestic docket. Prior to being appointed to the bench, Judge Stinson was the owner and managing member of Stinson Law Group from 2014 to 2017, and served as an adjunct professor at Oklahoma City University School of Law from 2015 to 2017.
Education/Career: Judge Stinson earned a BA in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1999, and a JD from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2002. Judge Stinson previously served as an associate attorney at Kirk & Chaney, PLLC and Walker, Ferguson & Ferguson. Stinson has also served as a law clerk for Judge Gary Lumpkin at the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals prior to joining the bench. Judge Stinson has received: Judge of the Year, Oklahoma Bar Association (Family Law Section); Beacon Award, Oklahoma County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division; Leadership in Law Award, Journal Record; Achievers Under 40 Award, Journal Record; and AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
Community/Personal: Judge Stinson is a native of Boise City and currently resides in Edmond.
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Siderias currently is a sitting Special Judge in Oklahoma County. Prior to joining the bench, Siderias was a prosecutor, prosecuting child abuse, sex crimes and homicides before building his law practice Siderias also has experience as a civil litigation and family law attorney as a solo practitioner in the Oklahoma City area. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1999.
Education/Career: Siderias obtained a BA at Oklahoma Baptist University; and a JD at University of Oklahoma in 1999. Siderias states that his key components of justice are impartiality and truth, he stated he favors diversion courts for some crimes.
Community/Personal: Siderias grew up in El Reno, Oklahoma and is a self proclaimed man of faith.
Election Website: https://jamessiderias.com/
Additional resources: Youtube.com
Savage currently is a sitting special judge in Oklahoma County. As a Special District Judge, Savage has presided over small claims litigation, hearing on assets, forcible entry and detainer actions, felony criminal preliminary hearings and misdemeanor jury trials. Savage is a former ADA for Oklahoma County, Muskogee and Pottawatomie County. Additional experience: Deputy Chief Assistant Attorney General of the Multi-County Grand Jury Unit and the General Counsel Unit providing legal counsel for the State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision; Oklahoma Able Commission; Oklahoma Real Estate Commission; Oklahoma Funeral Board; and the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the State of Oklahoma Office of Attorney General. Savage oversaw the preliminary hearing of fatal police shooting and sent the case to trial for second-degree murder (Keith Patrick Sweeney case). Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2001.
Education/Career: Savage attended Oklahoma State University for an undergraduate degree and earned her Juris Doctorate from the Oklahoma City University School of Law in 2001.
Community/Personal: Savage is a member of the William J. Holloway Chapter of: the American Inns of Court and has the following experience: Oklahoma County Bar Association Board of Director 2021-2024; Downtown Oklahoma City Exchange Club President 2021-2022; Oklahoma Bar Association Law Schools Committee and High School Mock Trial Judge and scoring panelist; Oklahoma University School of Law Mock Trial Court Judge American Bar Association Mock Trial Judge and scoring panelist and the Oklahoma City University School of Law Alumni Association. Savage is a member of the Pi Beta Phi Edmond Aluma Club.
Election website: https://www.savage4judge.com/
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Also on the ballot:
Associate District Judges
Oklahoma County
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Tulsa and Pawnee Counties
Gray is a current ADA for Tulsa County and has worked in the district attorney’s office for the last 11 years under Steve Kuntzweiler in the criminal division. Gray prosecuted the Kepler case in Tulsa County in 2017. Gray currently is the Director of the Tulsa County homicide unit.
Education/Career: A Booker T. Washington high school graduate, Gray was a Presidential Scholar at The University of Tulsa, where he double majored in history and political science. Gray obtained a Master’s of Public Service Administration from The Bush School at Texas A&M University, before returning to Tulsa to attend The University of Tulsa Law School. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2009.
Community/Personal: Gray is a member of the board of the Tulsa Air & Space Museum. He now serves as a member of the Emeritus Board.
Endorsements from: Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado, Glenpool Fraternal Order of Police Lodge, Tulsa FirePAC, Tulsa Beacon, Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell.
Election website: https://kevingrayfordistrictjudge.com/
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Wilson currently serves as a Tulsa County Special Judge, and is assigned to the preliminary hearing and bond dockets. Wilson was sworn in as a special judge in July 2020. Wilson began her legal career as a prosecutor in the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office. She prosecuted cases involving homicides and crimes against children. Tanya was ultimately named the Chief of the Juvenile Division, where she supervised a team of prosecutors Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2002.
Education/Career: Wilson is a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School. Wilson earned her BA from Langston University and her JD from the University of Tulsa College of Law. Wilson also serves as an adjunct professor of Trial Practice at the University of Tulsa College of Law.
Community/Personal: A Tulsa Native, Wilson is a member of the Historic Mount Zion Baptist Church, where she served as a Trustee and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Choctaw, McCurtain, and Pushmataha Counties
Loard currently is the First Assistant District Attorney for District 17, which includes McCurtain, Choctaw, and Pushmataha Counties. He has been an attorney for 28 years, 24 of those years as a prosecutor. Loard is a former City Attorney and a Municipal Judge. Johnny was honored as The State Prosecutor of the Year for Oklahoma in 2005.
Education/Career: Loard is a Lone Grove H.S. graduate and earned a BA in Political Science – Law Enforcement from University of Oklahoma in 1991 (President’s Honor Roll. Loard received a Juris Doctorate from Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1994 (Member Board of Governors). Loard currently serves on the Board of Directors for Children’s Advocacy Centers of OK (Past President), Sara Foundation (Past President) and Sunshine Industries. Lord has served on the District Attorney’s Council – Legislative Committee, Carter County Domestic Violence Task Force – Past President. Admitted to the bar in 1994.
Community/Personal: Loard resides in Idabel and is involved in the following: Kiwanis of Lone Grove – past president and vice-president; Idabel Little League and All-Star Coach; Lone Grove Kiwanis Little League Coach; OK Kids League Little League Coach; Ardmore YMCA Flag Football Coach; Cooke County Boys and Girls Club Football Coach; and Arbuckle League Youth Football Coach.
Election website: https://johnnysloard4districtjudge2022.com/
Judge Herron was appointed as special judge in May 2022 after serving as an ADA in McCurtain County for 11 years where she prosecuted domestic violence cases, taking a tough approach and reporting doing everything in her power to convince a domestic violence survivor to prosecute her abuser. Prior to becoming an ADA, Judge Herron worked as a criminal defense attorney in Idabel. Judge Herron also is an adjunct professor at Eastern Oklahoma State College.
Education/Career: Prior to joining the bench, Judge Herron was an attorney in private practice, focusing on personal injury, wrongful death, estate planning and family law. Herron received the Mary Ellen Wilson Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Award in 2014 sponsored by The Office of Child Abuse Prevention (OSDH).
Community/Personal: Judge Herron resides in Idabel.
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Also on the ballot:
Associate District Judges
McCurtain County
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Cleveland, Garvin, and McClain Counties
Tupper is the current district judge for District 21. In this position he presides over all varieties of civil, family law, and criminal cases and serves as the presiding judge of Cleveland County’s Treatment Court and Wellness Court programs, which is a past recipient of the SOAR Award, given annually by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to the Most Outstanding Drug Court in the state.
Education/Career: Judge Tupper earned a JD from University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2002. Tupper served as Special Judge for Cleveland County for eight years, and he was a former Cleveland County ADA and prosecuted homicides, sex crimes, violent offenses, and drug trafficking cases.
In addition to his work at the courthouse, Tupper has served as a national advocate for the drug treatment court system, traveling to Washington, D.C. in 2017 and 2018 as Oklahoma’s judicial representative to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals.
Tupper is also a graduate of Norman Police Department Citizens Police Academy and the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy. He has experience in various executive positions within the Cleveland County Bar Association, including Young Lawyers Division Chairperson, Vice-President, and President-elect.
Awards: Named Judge of the Year by the Family Law Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association, Recipient of the Norman Chamber of Commerce’s Norman Next Under 40 Leadership Award, Recognized as Professional Advocate of the Year by the Criminal Law Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association, Certificate of Appreciation from Drug Enforcement Agency for outstanding contributions in the field of drug law enforcement, Citation of Recognition from Oklahoma House of Representatives for demonstrated leadership and interest in making Norman a great community, Certificate of Appreciation from Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics for outstanding service and dedication, Selected as the Judicial Representative for the State of Oklahoma at the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP) Spring Congressional Fly-Ins.
Community/Personal: Tupper is an active parishioner of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Norman. Tupper states that his Christian faith and values serve as a compass in every facet of his life. He has served on the Salvation Army Citizens Advisory Council, Among Friends Activity Center Board, Parents Helping Parents, Inc. Board, Thunderbird Clubhouse Board, and a Mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Endorsed by: Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila, Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III, Coach Switzer, Moore Lodge 131 Fraternal Order of Police, Norman Fire Fighters IAFF Local 2067, Cleveland County Sheriff Chris Amason, McClain County Sheriff Offolter, Norman Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 122,
Election website: https://www.judgetupper2022.com
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Crowe currently serves as Assistant District Attorney to D.A. Greg Mashburn; tough on crime. Crowe conducts domestic violence and search and seizure trainings for local police and sheriff. He received the 2017-18 Cleveland County Prosecutor of the Year Award. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2014.
Education/Career: Crowe earned a JD at the University of Oklahoma in 2009 where he was a UOSA Superior Court Justice and on the Dean’s Honor Roll.
Community/Personal: Crowe is an active member of the Norman Rotary Club.
Endorsements: OKC Fraternal Order of Police
Election website: http://www.patrickcrowefordistrictjudge.com/
Also on the ballot:
Associate District Judges
Cleveland County
Garvin County
McClain County
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Lincoln and Pottawatomie Counties
Dobry is a solo practitioner working in bankruptcy, probate, civil commercial litigation, family, and criminal law for nearly 25 years. He lists his core values as: honesty, justice, respect, and community. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1994.
Education/Career: Dobry is a graduate of Stroud High School and went on to obtain his B.A. and his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma. Dobry previously ran as a Republican candidate for State Senate in District 28 in 2002 and 2014, with a platform on small government, economic growth, anti-Obamacare, “traditional values”, and pro-second amendment. Dobry also formerly worked as Assistant District Attorney in 2019 and 2020.
Community/Personal: Dobry currently lives in Chandler, OK.
Solo practitioner in Del City; areas of focus: adoption, federal appellate practice, Indian law, family law, estate planning; She is a self-proclaimed constitutional advocate and considers compassion to be her forefront value. Admitted to Oklahoma bar in 2003.
Education/Career: Soderstrom earned her JD from Oklahoma City University in 2003, cum laude. Soderstrom has been a founding partner at Soderstrom & Associates, PC since 2007.
Community/Personal: Soderstrom is a Oklahoma National Guard veteran, small business owner, and rancher.
Election website: https://www.soderstromforjudge.com/
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Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Atoka and Coal Counties
Inge is the current District Judge and was appointed to this position by Governor Mary Fallin in 2012. During her tenure as judge, she ruled to overturn the conviction of Tommy Ward, who was the subject of a 2006 John Grisham book and a popular 2018 Netflix documentary of the same name titled “The Innocent Man,” as well as a 1987 book by Robert Mayer titled “Dreams of Ada.” Admitted to Oklahoma bar in 1990.
Education/Career: Inge earned a JD from University of Oklahoma, graduating with high honors and was a member of the Order of the Coif and served as assistant articles editor for the Oklahoma Law Review. Prior to being a judge, Inge was a partner at Reasor & Inge Law Offices from 2008 to 2011, and is a former partner at Stamper, Otis and Burrage. Inge was chief financial officer for Mathis Brothers Furniture from 1995 to 2007.
Mowdy is a former criminal defense attorney and current Associate District Judge. Admitted to the Oklahoma state bar in 1984.
Education/Career: Oklahoma City University, J.D.
Community/Personal: Mowdy owns a ranch in Coalgate (Mowdy Ranch).
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Also on the ballot:
Associate District Judges
Coal County
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Cash is the current Current Beaver County ADA. When asked why she is running, Cash said, “It’s been over three decades since there has been a judicial decision or race in our county. We’ve always had an appointed judge. I just believe that right now there’s a swelling of people that want to take back our democracy and actually cast votes for the people that represent them. So I’ve chosen to run for judge to give people a chance to have a choice.” Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2009.
Education/Career: Cash earned a JD from the University of Oklahoma. Cash was the former director of OK Agritourism and former marketing director of the OK Wheat Commission. She was the 2019 recipient of the Association of Narcotics Enforcers Region I Prosecutor of the Year award.
Community/Personal: Cash is a self-proclaimed conservative Christian and is proud to stand with law enforcement. She describes herself as a constitutionalist and an advocate of law and order and upholding constitutional rights, claiming she is committed to firm, fair enforcement of the law.
Election website: https://www.cashforjudge2022.com/
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Judge Reddick was appointed by Governor Mary Fallin in 2011 to serve as the Associate District Judge for Beaver County, Oklahoma. Reddick presided over misdemeanor and felony criminal matters, adoptions, guardianships and family law. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1997.
Career/Education: Reddick obtained his B.S. from West Texas State University in 1994 and a JD from University of Oklahoma in 1997. Prior to being appointed as an associate judge in Beaver County, Reddick was appointed by former Governor Keating as an associate judge in Texas County in 2000 and was responsible for the criminal docket.
Community/Personal: Judge Reddick resides in Beaver, Oklahoma.
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Brown is the current ADA in Canadian County and former ADA in Jackson County. Brown’s promises to Blaine County are: “I promise to work Monday through Friday at the Blaine County Courthouse, to live in Blaine County full time, to respect the authority, function, and independence of all agencies that work within the legal system, to be respectful of all litigants and courthouse staff involved in legal proceedings, to only use virtual court when absolutely necessary, to make decisions that are fair, impartial, and appropriate, to recuse myself if I cannot be impartial in a case, to uphold high ethical standards with integrity.” Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2002.
Education/Career: Brown earned a JD from Oklahoma City University in 2002. Brown has experience working for the Oklahoma’s Department of Human Services (DHS) as a Senior Child Welfare Specialist III. Brown was a former Assistant State Attorney in Orange County, Florida. She was formerly a solo practitioner in El Reno specialized in representing children at the Juvenile Center in El Reno and doing Guardian Ad Litem (representing the children's best interests) during divorce proceedings. Brown was awarded the district attorney's Guardian Award in 2017 and 2018. Brown is known as one of the top domestic violence prosecutors in Oklahoma and was awarded the Oklahoma Bar Association Prosecutor of the Year in 2015.
Community/Personal: Brown serves as the newly elected president of the board of directors for the Intervention and Crisis Advocacy Network (ICAN) Serves as a board member of the Watonga Foundation.
Election website: https://www.jennabrownforjudge.com/
Judge Lafferty currently serves as Blaine County associate judge and is seeking re-election. Judge Lafferty is responsible for criminal and juvenile dockets. Lafferty is a former ADA in Blaine County. Lafferty also has experience in private practice in Watonga. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2004.
Education/Career: Jenna Brown challenged Judge Lafferty’s candidacy eligibility arguing that Lafferty did not reside in Blaine County. The election board voted 3-0 in favor of Lafferty allowing the associate judge to seek re-election.
Community/Personal: Lafferty and her husband own homes in Watonga and Yukon and split time between the two although she remains registered to vote in Blaine County.
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Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Rogers is currently a Special Judge in Bryan County. Rogers formerly practiced at Burrage Law Firm in Durant which specializes in catastrophic injury and death cases across the United States, but also handles a wide range of transactional and general litigation issues locally in Oklahoma. Admitted to the Oklahoma Bar in 2008.
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Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Bussett has been a partner/owner of Bussett Legal Group Law PLLC, which specializes in: employment law, business law, personal injury, civil rights, family and juvenile law, adoption, probate and estate law, bankruptcy and criminal defense. In regards to the Gary E. Miller Children's Justice Center, she has plans to create mentorship programs for parents and children in the deprived and delinquent programs, she believes in integrating alternative therapy approaches into traditional therapeutic settings. Further, she plans to work to expand community programs that help youth transition out of foster care into adulthood. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2003.
Education/Career: Bussett graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1997, with a Bachelor's of Science in Design, Housing and Merchandising. Busseet is a 2014 graduate of the Trial Lawyer’s College in Dubois, Wyoming and graduated cum laude from Oklahoma City University School of Law in 2003. Rachel Bussett started BLG Law PLLC in 2015 out of a desire to help people in her community while providing for her family at the same time. “I was tired of the regular old law firm “good boys” model. I wanted to set out to show that women didn’t have to choose between being good lawyers and good parents.”
Community/Personal: Bussett has served on the Board of Directors for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Oklahoma, Leadership Canadian County, Oklahoma Lawyers For Children, and True Friends Animal Rescue. Bussett has been a volunteer with the American Diabetes Association, Diabetes Solutions of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Lawyers for America's Heroes, and the Girl Scouts of America.
Election website: https://www.rachelforjudge.com/
Judge Hughey is the sitting associate judge for Canadian County and has held the seat since 2006. Judge Hughey ran unopposed in 2010 and 2014 elections for associate judge. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1985.
Education/Career: Judge Hughley received both his BBA (1982) and J.D. (1985) from the University of Oklahoma. Before joining the court, Hughey worked at the law offices of John Wheatley & Associates and later Hughey & Parker in El Reno, Oklahoma.
Community/Personal: Judge Hughely is committed to education; Hughley created a truancy program at the Canadian County Justice Center. Hugh has served on the El Reno Public School Foundation and the Board of Directors for the El Reno Chamber of Commerce. Born and raised in Canadian county, Judge Hughley resides in El Reno, Oklahoma.
Election website: https://www.hughey4judge.com/
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Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Hunnicutt is a current solo practitioner with Hunnicutt Legal in Ardmore specializing in criminal defense, family law and DHS defense. Hunnicutt was a former police officer and ADA in Ardmore. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2017.
Education/Career: Hunnicutt earned a JD from University of Oklahoma. During law school, Hunnicutt was on the Dean’s list all three years, was initiated into Phi Delta Phi honors society, Order of Solicitors, and was chosen to work with the UN in Columbia and on Human Rights projects in Africa
Community/Personal: Hunnicutt has served on the advisory board for the Oklahoma Family Violence shelter, sponsors at-risk kids in youth sports, is active with Springer Schools, was a former president of the Fraternal Order of Police, sits on the Drug Court advisory board, and is an active member at St. Mary Catholic Church in Ardmore.
Election website: https://hunnicuttcampaign2022.com/
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Baldwin is the current associate judge of the 20th District Court in Oklahoma. He was elected on November 4, 2014. Prior to 2014, Baldwin served as a special judge in Carter County for over five years. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1994.
Education/Career: Judge Baldwin received a B.A. in political science, along with minors in history and philosophy, from the University of Oklahoma in 1991. Baldwin graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Law with his J.D. in 1994. Prior to joining the bench, Baldwin practiced law in Ardmore. In 2020, Judge Baldwin denied the city’s motion to dismiss claims by Norman’s policy union that the city council illegally reduced the police department budget when the council voted to reallocate $865,000 of its $31.1 million budget for community programs and mental health services.
Personal/Community: Judge Baldwin resides in Ardmore.
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
A Governor Stitt appointee, Judge Stanley was sworn in as associate district judge for Cleveland county in 2020, following the retirement of Judge Stephen Bonner. Stanley is a former ADA for Cleveland County.
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Also on the ballot:
District Judges
District 21
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Trail is an attorney in Atoka focusing on criminal defense and government practice. He was admitted to the bar in 2015.
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Also on the ballot:
District Judges
District 25
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Kendall is the current associate district judge for District 21 in Garvin County. He was appointed by Governor Mary Fallin in 2013.
Education/Career: Kendall earned a B.A. in history from West Texas A&M University in 1988 and a J.D. from the University of Oklahoma in 1994. He served in the United States Army Reserve from 1984 to 1990. Kendall's previous position was an attorney at Garvin, Agee, Carlton and Mashburn, which focuses on civil and commercial litigation. He has worked as a private practice attorney while contracting with the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System and as an assistant district attorney in Cleveland County.
Community/Personal: Kendall served as a member on the board of Legal Aid of Western Oklahoma and as the president of the Garvin County Bar Association.
McClain has been serving as ADA in Garvin County under Greg Mashburn for the last 8 years. She previously worked in private practice for 20 years focusing on civil litigation, handling personal injury, small claims, civil rights litigation, appellate litigation, workers comp, administrative law practice, along with work in criminal court, probate, guardianship, and family law. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1992.
Education/Career: McClain graduated from Pauls Valley High School in 1982. She studied physical education and recreation as an undergraduate student and earned a master’s degree in recreation administration from North Carolina before going to the University of Oklahoma to earn her J.D. in 1992. Laura’s proudest accomplishments is creating and managing Garvin County’s Graduated Sanctions Program, which works with at-risk youth to help them before they become entangled in the criminal court system.
Community/Personal: McClain is a member of the First United Methodist Church in Pauls Valley, the Crusaders Sunday School Class, the Oklahoma Bar Association, the Garvin County Bar Association and the Oklahoma District Attorneys Association. McClain supports the Pauls Valley Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the Samaritans.
Election website: http://lauramcclainforjudge.com/
Additional resource: Pauls Valley Daily Democrat
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Also on the ballot:
District Judges
District 21
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Nicholson was appointed by Governor Stitt in November of 2021 as Latimer County Associate District Judge. Nicholson is a former child support enforcement attorney for District 16’s district attorney’s office as well as a former first ADA for Latimer and LeFlore Counties from 2015 - 2021. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1998.
Education/Career: Nicholson earned a JD from University of Oklahoma in 1998. Nicholson was named Regional Prosecutor of the Year by the District Attorney’s Council, and in 2016 was named Regional Prosecutor of the Year by the Association of the Oklahoma Narcotic Enforcers.
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Skimbo is a lawyer in Wilburton, Oklahoma and former District Court of Latimer County trial judge. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1987.
Education/Career: Skimbo earned a JD from the University of Oklahoma in 1998.
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Judge Gray is the sitting Associate District Judge in McClain county. Judge Gray handles all probates, quiet title matters, juvenile cases (both deprived and delinquent), divorces and custody cases, adoptions, guardianships and all miscellaneous civil cases
Education/Career: Gray graduated from Purcell High School in 1972, after which he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Oklahoma in 1977. Gray worked various jobs after graduating, including a position in the Department of Human Services Food Stamp Division, where he developed an interest in law. He received his J.D. from Oklahoma City University in 1982. After graduating, Gray worked as ADA for Cleveland, McClain and Garvin Counties for two years before entering private practice as a defense attorney.
Community/Personal: Born and raised in Purcell, Oklahoma.
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Deveraux has been in private practice in Purcell for 10 years, focusing in the following areas of law: criminal law, juvenile law, mental health proceedings, estate planning, and probate litigation. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2012.
Education/Career: Deveraux graduated from Purcell Public Schools. At the University of Oklahoma, Deveraux began as a computer engineering major, but later switched his major and graduated with a BA in Sociology/Criminology. Deveraux obtained a JD from Oklahoma City University and interned at Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals and a local DA office during law school.
Community/Personal: Deveraux grew up in Purcell and was raised by a single mother.
Election website: http://wdforjudge.com
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Ragland is a family law attorney in Idabel with over 17 years of legal experience and specializes in cases dealing with family and criminal law. According to the Secretary of State website, the law firm’s PLLC status is canceled. Ragland receives positive online reviews from clients. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1995.
Win
Also on the ballot:
District Judges
District 21
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Loge is a former Muskogee County District Attorney. Loge resigned from elected office at the end of September 2021 to accept a Governor Stitt appointment as special judge of Muskogee County following the retirement of the Hon. Weldon Stout. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1994.
Education/Career: Lorge obtained a BS from University of the Ozarks in 1990 and a JD from Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1994.
Win
Locke has been in private practice in Muskogee for fifteen years, Lock Law Office which specializes in: criminal and personal injury law, divorce and family law, federal law. Lock has positive online reviews from clients. Admitted to the Missouri bar in 2005 and the Oklahoma Bar in 2006.
Education/Career: Locke graduated from Green Mountain Valley High School; earned a a BA from Northeastern State University in 2001; and a JD from University of Missouri – Kansas City in 2004.
Locke is a member of Muskogee County, Oklahoma and American Bar Associations; the Missouri Bar; Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association; Association of Trial Lawyers of America; and Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys. Locke is on the board of the Five Civilized Tribes Museum, and has also been licensed to practice law with the Cherokee Nation, Creek Nation, and Federal Courts.
He has also served on the boards of Kids Space, Muskogee Little Theatre, Downtown Muskogee and Monarch.
Personal/Community: Born in Muskogee.
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Singleton is currently in private practice as a defense attorney and has been working as such since 2016. Singleton is a former ADA in Oklahoma County, prosecuting homicides and other violent crimes. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2011.
Education/Career: Singleton obtained her JD from the University of Oregon School of Law in 2011, Certificate in Criminal Law Practice; Master of Science in Educational Psychology, University of Nevada-Reno in 2007; and a Bachelor of Arts Psychology, University of Central Oklahoma in 2005. After law school, Angela volunteered at the Oklahoma County DA office and then was hired as ADA until she opened her own practice in 2016 as a criminal defense attorney.. "Every person should be able to walk into a courtroom and know that they will be treated fairly. That the Court will be prepared, will follow the law, and treat all parties with respect."
Community/Personal: Born and raised in Oklahoma City.
Memberships: Oklahoma Bar Association US Federal Court for the Western District, Oklahoma County Bar Association, Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association,National Trial Lawyers, The American Society of Legal Advocates
Election Website: https://www.singletonforjudge.com/
Win
Judge Kirby was elected to serve as Associate District Judge for Oklahoma County in 2007, initially serving as the supervising judge for the juvenile courts in Oklahoma County, presiding over cases regarding children in cases of Deprived, Delinquent, INT, INS, and Youthful Offender matters. Kirby also is a presiding judge of the Juvenile Division. Kirby also is an adjunct professor at Oklahoma City University. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 1987.
Education/Career: Kirby earned a BBA in Accounting from Oklahoma University – Price School of Business in 1984, and earned is JD from OU School of law in 1987. Judge Kirby is former General Counsel for Oklahoma Department of Corrections and Assistant General Counsel and Director of Administration for former Governor Frank Keating.
Personal/Career: Judge Kirby is a graduate of SALTT Christian Leadership and received State Judge of the Year from Oklahoma CASA in 2012.
Also on the ballot:
District Judges
District 7
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Whalen currently is in private practice in Miami, OK and has been practicing law since 2018, specializing in: personal injury, wrongful death, criminal and family law. Whalen is a partner at Doney & Whalen Law.
Education/Career: Whalen graduated from Miami high school and studied Criminology at University of Oklahoma, receiving his BA in 2007. Whalen went on to earn a JD from University of Tulsa School of Law in 2012. Whalen is a former solo practitioner before joining Doney & Whalen. Member of Quapaw Nation Bar Association.
Win
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Waters is currently in private practice in Sallisaw. Waters is a former associate judge of the 15th District Court in Oklahoma. He was elected on November 4, 2014, for a term that expired on January 13, 2019. Waters was an assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma when he was elected as a judge. Waters previously worked in the Western District of Arkansas, and as an attorney in private practice. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2003. Waters was quoted in the Sequoyah County Times as saying, ”The constitutions of the United States and the State of Oklahoma will be guides in presiding over cases. I will ensure that the rule of law is met and no one is denied their basic rights that have been the bedrock of our nation.”
Education/Career: Waters earned a BA from Oklahoma State University and a Juris Doctorate from University of Tulsa College of Law in 2002.
Win
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Wheeler is currently an associate attorney at Hammond, Archer & Kee, P.L.L.C. in Duncan. A petition was filed earlier this year, challenging Lawerence's candidacy eligibility to seek Assistant Judge in Stephens County. Stephens was allowed to amend his confidential declaration of candidacy request form to remain a candidate for associate district judge in Stephens County. Wheeler is a former Assistant City Attorney for the City of Duncan. Also served as a Municipal judge for the City of Ryan and a judicial law clerk for Muskogee County Courthouse. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2012.
Education/Career: Wheeler attended St. Gregory’s University (Business Management); BA in Business Management from Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2007; MBA from University of Oklahoma – Price College of Business in 2011; and J.D. from University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2011.
Community/Personal: Wheeler volunteers as court appointed attorney for children in DHS custody, the elderly and those with mental impairments; also volunteers at Legal Aid Clinics. He serves on the board of directors for both Gabriel’s House Foundation as well as the Simmons Center and is involved with Kiwanis and Rotary Club. Wheeler is a self-proclaimed Constitutional advocate. He states his priorities are to defend our Constitutional rights, stand with law enforcement, protect the right to life, protect the Second Amendment, protect the most vulnerable, and oppose judicial activism.
Endorsements: Mayor Ritchie Dennington (Duncan), Dr. Stacie Elfrink (Duncan), Dr. Lance Minson, Owner of Minson Veterinary Hospital (Duncan), and Natalie Pettijohn, Owner of Wichita West Design + Build (Marlow)
Election website: https://www.wheelerforjudge.com/
Win
Sykes is a former member of the Oklahoma State Senate, representing District 24 from 2006 to 2018. Sykes served as assistant majority floor leader in the Senate from 2015 to 2018, and previously served as majority whip. As a Senator, Sykes proposed Senate Joint Resolution 42, which would have allowed voters to decide whether judicial elections should become partisan. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2000.
Education/Career: Sykes was born in New Castle, OK and is a graduate of New Castle High School. Sykes earned his B.A. in public administration and his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma. American Legion Post 258, Oklahoma Air National Guard.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/anthonysykes
Also on the ballot:
District Judges
District 5
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Gatlin is the current ADA for Washita-Custer County, OK. Gatlin formerly worked in private practice at Cordell Law Firm which specializes in family law. Admitted to the Oklahoma bar in 2007.
Education/Career: University of Oklahoma, J.D., 2007. Gatlin has experience working for Oklahoma Child Support Services and in working for the Custer County DA’s Office, specializing in sex crimes, child victim crimes, domestic violence and juvenile law. She sits on the teams for both the Washita-Custer County Treatment Court and the Custer-Washita County Family Treatment Court, and serves as a member of the area Child Protection Team and the Coordinated Community Response Team.
Personal/Community: She is a member of the First Baptist Church of Cordell where she has served on several committees and is a member of the praise team, regularly helping lead the church’s music service. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Cordell Chamber of Commerce and is currently beginning her second term as President of the Board.
Win
Also on the ballot:
Statewide Judges
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Civil Court of Appeals
Justice Edmonson was appointed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court by by Governor Brad Henry in 2003, replacing retiring Justice Hardy Summers. Edmondson was retained by voters in 2006 and 2016.
Career
Edmondson was the assistant district attorney for Muskogee County from 1976-1978. He was on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma from 1978-1981, first as assistant U.S. attorney then as acting U.S. attorney. He became a judge on the Oklahoma District 15 Court, where he served until 2003. In 2003, Edmondson was appointed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court where he served as Chief Justice from 2009 to 2010.
Education
Edmonson received his Bachelors degree from Northeastern State University in 1967 and his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in 1973.
Retained
Justice Gurich was appointed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court by by Governor Brad Henry in 2011. Gurich was retained by voters in 2012 and 2018.
Career
Justice Gurich has been a member of the judiciary for over 33 years. In 1988, Gurich was appointed by Gov. Henry Bellmon to the Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Court (Court of Existing Claims), where she served as Presiding Judge from 1989-1993; Gov. David Walters re-appointed Gurich to her second term. Gov. Frank Keating appointed Gurich to fill a vacancy in Oklahoma's Seventh District. Gurich was appointed by Gov. Brad Henry to the Oklahoma Supreme Court in 2011; her term as Chief Justice began in 2019. In 2011, she became the 90th person since Oklahoma statehood (1907) to serve as a full time justice on the Supreme Court of Oklahoma, and she is only the third woman justice in over 100 years.
Education
Gurich received her undergraduate degree from Indiana State University in 1975 and her J.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1978.
Personal
Justice Gurich grew up in a rural farming community located in St. Joseph County near Mishawaka, Indiana. She attended elementary through high school in the Penn-Harris-Madison consolidated School District.
According the Justice's website, Gurich participated in many activities during high school including girls’ basketball, various clubs and concert, jazz and marching bands. She recently was awarded a 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award from her high school.
Justice Gurich is Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Oklahoma City (2006-07) and has been a member since 1998. She was only the second female President in the club's 90-year history.
Retained
Justice Kauger was appointed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court by Governor George Nigh in 1984.
Career
Before joining the bench, Kauger worked in private practice for Rogers, Travis and Jordon until 1972. She was the first woman to serve as a staff attorney for the Oklahoma Supreme Court, hired by Justice Ralph B. Hodges in 1972.
Prior to her appointment to that Court, Kauger served as presiding judge on the Oklahoma Court of Judiciary in 2001. She was also the chair of the Building Committee for the Oklahoma Judicial Center and a member of the District-State-Federal Judicial Council.
Kauger was instrumental in establishing OSCN.NET and the adoption of uniform citations; she also chaired the Building and the Arts Committee of the Judicial Center. Kauger is the last Justice to address the Joint Session of the Legislature.
Kauger went on to be appointed to the bench by Gov. George Nigh in 1984 and served as Chief Justice of the state Supreme Court from January 1997 to January of 1999.
Education
Kauger graduated magna cum laude from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1958 and received her J.D. from the Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1969, graduating first in her class. Kauger was awarded an honorary Doctorate from Oklahoma City University in 1991.
Personal
Yvonne Kauger grew up in Colony, Oklahoma. She graduated from Colony, Oklahoma High School in 1955, as valedictorian.
A year after graduation, Kauger completed an internship as a certified Medical Technologist (MT.ASCP). She worked at Medical Arts Laboratory to put herself through Oklahoma City University School of Law night school, graduating first in class in 1969.
Since joining the bench, Kauger has received the Governor’s Arts Award twice and is an adopted member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. She has been inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Kauger also was named Red Earth Ambassador in 2011 and National Delta Zeta of the year in 1988-89, appearing on the cover of the Delta Zeta magazine “The Lamp.” At the direction of Chief Justice John Doolin, she began The Sovereignty Symposium in 1988.
Retained
Also on the ballot:
Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals
Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals
Judge Huber was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals in April 2023 by Governor Kevin Stitt to replace Keith Rapp.
Career
Before joining the bench, Huber worked as an associate with Malloy & Associates in Tulsa. In 1995, he opened his own firm and later served as the managing partner of Collier and Huber, representing businesses and individuals in employment and commercial litigation matters.
Huber left private practice in 2019 upon being selected by the District Judges of Tulsa County to serve as a Special Judge. He served as a Tulsa County District Judge and the Chief Judge of the Family Court Division, where he supervised six special judges while presiding over both a family court and youthful offender criminal docket from 2020 until his appointment to the Court of Civil Appeals in 2023.
Education
Huber received his Bachelors in political science from the University of Oklahoma in 1990 and his J.D. from the University of Tulsa in 1993.
Personal
Huber was born and raised in Tulsa, OK. He has been a member of both the Marquette Catholic School Advisory Council and the Board of Directors for the Tulsa Boys' Home.
Retained
Judge Downing was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals by Governor Kevin Stitt in May 2022, filling a vacancy created by the resignation of Trevor Pemberton in October 2021. His current term ends in January 2025.
Career
Before being appointed to the bench, Downing served as Assistant Attorney General for the State Oklahoma from 2011 to 2016, representing Oklahoma in criminal appeals. While working as a prosecutor, Downing also worked as a JAG officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Downing also was a member of the Opinion Conference and was Director of Legislative Affairs.
From 2016 to 2018, Downing served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, where he was an Assistant Majority Floor Leader, an Assistant Majority Whip, and Vice-Chair of the Judiciary Committee.
According to Downing's legislative representative page, he worked as a legal fellow in Washington, D.C. for U.S. Senator James Inhofe on important issues facing Oklahomans and the nation. He also worked two years for Jay Sekulow and the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) on issues including opposition to Shariah law, defending Israel, opposing Obamacare, defending religious freedoms, protecting unborn children, fighting for military chaplains, and defending traditional marriage.
Downing also served as Appellate Military Judge for the Oklahoma Military Court of Appeals, a position appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oklahoma Senate. He also served as the 25th United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma after being nominated by former president Trump in 2019 before resigning in 2021 to accept Governor Stitt's nomination to the bench.
Education
Downing received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oklahoma, his Master of Management from Oral Roberts University, and his J.D. from the Regent University School of Law.
Personal
Downing grew up in Pauls Valley, OK, and graduated from a small high school in Garvin County.
Retained
Judge Prince was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals by Governor Kevin Stitt in 2021 after Kenneth Buettner retired. Prince was retained by voters in 2022, and his current term ends in January 2029.
Career
Prince has 29 years of private practice with the Prince Law Office and York & Slater under his belt, during which time he focused on complex commercial transactions, government relations, professional licensing, and labor and employment matters. Other areas of practice included business law, wills and estates, and health law.
Before joining the bench, Prince was an administrative law judge for the Oklahoma Merit Protection Commission, Oklahoma State Department of Health, and the Construction Industries Board. In 2012, he served as a district judge for the Oklahoma County District Court (Seventh Judicial District), during which time he presided over both civil and criminal jury trials and served as presiding judge for the State Multi-County Grand Jury from 2016-2018. Prince also served as vice-presiding judge for the Seventh Judicial Administrative District from 2016-2018 and was elected presiding judge in 2019.
Prince served as district judge until his appointment to the Court of Civil Appeals in 2021. He previously received gubernatorial appointments to the Oklahoma State Election Board, serving as a member from 1999-2012. Prince also served as president of the Oklahoma Judges' Association from 2013-2015.
Education
Prince received his Bachelors in political science from Southern Arkansas University in 1979 and his J.D. from the Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1982.
Retained
Judge Bell was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals by Governor Brad Henry in 2005. His current term ends on January 12, 2025.
Career
After law school, Bell was in private practice in Norman for 13 years. In 1994, at the age of 27, he was appointed to the bench, serving as municipal judge for the cities of Moore, Purcell, Blanchard, Noble, and Broken Arrow, and becoming the youngest sitting judge in Oklahoma. After his 2005 appointment to the Court of Civil Appeals, Bell served as the Chief Judge in 2010 as well as a Special Justice on the Oklahoma Supreme Court numerous times.
Bell was appointed vice president of the Oklahoma Judicial Conference in 2011. He currently sits on the education committee of the United States Supreme Court Historical Society. He has also been named the Outstanding Senior Alumnus for the University of Tulsa as well as a member of the Duke Heritage Society. He has been an adjunct professor at the University of Oklahoma College of Law since 1998.
Education
Bell received his Bachelors degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1989 and his J.D. from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 1992. He later earned an LL.M. from the Duke University School of Law.
Retained
Judge Mitchell was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals by Governor Frank Keating in 2002. Mitchell was retained by voters in 2004, 2006, and 2012.
Career
After law school in 1979, Mitchell began his legal career as a private practice lawyer in Enid and Oklahoma City. In 1993, he became a staff attorney for Judge Carl Jones of the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals, where he worked until being appointed to that Court himself in 2002.
In 2009, Mitchell served one year as Chief Judge. He is a member of the Oklahoma and Oklahoma County bar associations, the OBA Appellate Practice Section, a Sustaining Fellow of the Oklahoma Bar Foundation, and a member of the Oklahoma Supreme Court Committee for Uniform Jury Instructions.
Mitchell is a former member of the OBA Administration of Justice Committee and was a volunteer at Legal Aid of Western Oklahoma. He is currently a Master in the Ginsburg American Inn of Court.
Education
Mitchell received his Bachelors degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1976 and his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1979.
Retained
Judge Goree was appointed to Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals by Governor Mary Fallin in August 2012 to succeed Carol Hansen, who resigned in January 2012.
Career
Before joining the bench, Goree was in private practice for 23 years in Tulsa, specializing in litigation research and writing as an associate at Secrest, Hill and Butler and as the head of research and writing at Latham, Wagner, Steele and Lehman, a civil defense firm in Tulsa. His final private connection was with Toon Osmond PLLC, which he joined in January 2012.
Goree also volunteered with Tulsa Lawyers for Children.
Education
Goree received his Bachelors degree in chemistry from the University of Oklahoma in 1986 and his J.D. from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 1989.
Personal
Goree was born in Killeen, TX, and was raised in Tulsa.
Retained
Also on the ballot:
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals
Judge Musseman was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals by Governor Kevin Stitt in 2022.
Career
Musseman served for 11 years as an Assistant District Attorney in Tulsa County as a prosecuting trial attorney and supervisor. In 2009, he became Special Judge in the 14th Judicial District, which covers Tulsa and Pawnee Counties.
He was elected and served as District and Presiding Judge from 2011 to 2022. He served as Chairman of the Oklahoma Uniform Criminal Jury Instruction Committee and is now the liaison to that committee for the Court of Criminal Appeals.
Education
Musseman graduated from Northeastern State University in 1995 and earned his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma School of Law in 1997.
Retained
Judge Rowland was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals by Governor Mary Fallin in 2017.
Career
Rowland's career started with his role as public information officer for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics in 1989, which he managed while attending law school at night. He then worked as an Assistant Attorney General for AG Drew Edmondson, focusing on white-collar crime.
He also served as general counsel to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics from 1996 to 2006 before becoming the first Assistant District Attorney in Oklahoma County from 2007 to 2017, under David Prater.
Rowland has been an adjunct instructor of criminal and constitutional law at Oklahoma State University- Oklahoma City since 1998. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Hall of Fame in 2016, named outstanding Adjunct Faculty at OSU-OKC in 2017, Outstanding Oklahoma Prosecutor for 2013 by the Oklahoma District Attorneys’ Association, and State Prosecutor of the Year in both 2001 and 2004 by the Association of Oklahoma Narcotic Enforcers.
Prior to being appointed to the bench, Rowland authored The Laws of Arrest, Search and Seizure: an Outline for Oklahoma Prosecutors and Police Officers and Right to Counsel and Right to Silence: An Overview of the 5th and 6th Amendments, which have been used by thousands of law enforcement officials in Oklahoma and across the country.
Education
Rowland earned his Bachelors degree in journalism/political science from the University of Oklahoma in 1987 and his J.D. from the Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1994.
Personal
Rowland grew up in Wynnewood, OK, graduating from high school there in 1983.
Retained
Judge Lewis was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals by Governor Brad Henry in 2005.
Career
Prior to joining the bench, Lewis worked in private practice from 1984 to 1987.
He was an assistant district attorney for Oklahoma's Fifth District (Comanche County) from 1987-1991. He also served as Comanche County special district judge from 1991-1999, and was district judge for Comanche, Stephens, Jefferson, and Cotton counties from 1999 to 2005, when he was appointed to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. Lewis has been chosen to serve two terms as presiding judge of the Court of Criminal Appeals.
In 2008, Lewis was awarded the Henry Toll Fellowship Program of the Council of State Governments. In addition, he formerly served as President of the Comanche County Bar Association. He has served as president of the Oklahoma Judicial Conference and is a fellow of the Oklahoma Bar Foundation.
Judge Lewis is the first Black judge to serve on the Oklahoma Criminal Court of Appeals. On January 23, 2013, he made history again as the first Black jurist to serve as presiding judge of the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals.
Education
Lewis earned his Bachelors degree in Economics with high honors from the University of Oklahoma in 1980 and his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1983.
Personal
Judge Lewis was born in Ardmore, OK. He graduated from Ardmore High School in 1976.
Lewis currently serves on the Board of Directors for Girls Scouts of Western Oklahoma and has served as chairman of Reach Out and Read Oklahoma.
Retained
Also on the ballot:
Oklahoma Supreme Court
Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals
