Choctaw Nation Opens Second Judicial Center in McAlester, Oklahoma

DURANT, OKLA. — The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) has opened its second Judicial Center in McAlester, OK to improve access to justice for residents in the reservation’s northern counties.

The new facility will help reduce congestion at the Judicial Center in Durant and shorten travel for families involved in guardianship, divorce, and juvenile cases. The McAlester location will address cases from Hughes, Haskell, Latimer, LeFlore, Pittsburg, and Coal counties.

“More than 40 percent of cases filed in the Choctaw Nation District Court originate from the northern counties of the reservation,” said Chief Justice David Burrage. “These figures make clear that placing a courthouse in McAlester is not just strategic, but essential to expanding access to justice and strengthening the effectiveness of our court system.”

The McAlester Judicial Center will house probation services, public defenders, and prosecutors, bringing key justice partners together. This integration is expected to enhance court efficiency and provide comprehensive community support.

Located near other Choctaw services, including the pharmacy and health center, the new courthouse demonstrates the Nation’s commitment to accessible, holistic support for its citizens.