On December 17, 2003, after artful negotiations, the Memorandum of Agreement for the Chickasaw Nation to assume primary responsibility for the operation of the Chickasaw Agency Court of Indian Offenses CFR Court was agreed to and signed by Bill Anoatubby, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation, and by the designated representative of the United States of America, acting through the Bureau of Indian Affairs Eastern Oklahoma Regional Director for the Secretary of the Interior. The Chickasaw Nation Judicial Department by and through the District Court of the Chickasaw Nation assumed full jurisdiction of the CFR caseload and all cases to be filed in the future. On January 1, 2004, the Chickasaw Nation assumed primary responsibility for the operation of the Chickasaw Agency Court of Indian Offenses CFR Court and its functions, services and activities, including the Chickasaw Nation Supreme Court and Chickasaw Nation District Court. The Tribal District Court opened its doors in Ada, OK on January 2, 2004. The first docket was heard by District Judge Aaron Duck on January 8, 2004.
The District Court consists of the presiding Judge and Special Judges as may be appointed according to law. The District Judge is appointed by the Supreme Court and serves a three (3) year term of office beginning the date of their confirmation and until his/her successor takes office, unless removed for cause, by death or resignation.
Honorable District Judge Aaron Duck was appointed in September, 2003. He was sworn in on September 12, 2003, by Chief Justice, Cheri Bellefeuille-Eldred.
To contact or make appointments with the Court Advocate, call (580) 235-0279
Chickasaw Nation Code | Constitution of the Chickasaw Nation
