Oklahoma § 21-565.1 - Trial court - Power to punish contempt - Censure Contempt proceedings
Full text of Oklahoma Oklahoma Statutes § 21-565.1 — Trial court - Power to punish contempt - Censure Contempt proceedings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-565.1. Trial court - Power to punish contempt - Censure Contempt proceedings
A. The trial judge has the power to cite for contempt anyone
who, in his presence in open court, willfully obstructs judicial
proceedings. If necessary, the trial judge may punish a person
cited for contempt after an opportunity to be heard has been given.
B. Censure shall be imposed by the trial judge only if:
1. it is clear from the identity of the offender and the
character of his acts that disruptive conduct is willfully
contemptuous; or
2. the conduct warranting the sanction is preceded by a clear
warning that the conduct is impermissible and that specified
sanctions may be imposed for its repetition.
C. The trial judge, as soon as practicable after he is
satisfied that courtroom misconduct requires contempt proceedings,
should inform the alleged offender of his intention to institute
said proceedings.
D. Before imposing any punishment for contempt, the judge shall
give the offender notice of the charges and an opportunity to adduce
evidence or argument relevant to guilt or punishment.
E. The judge before whom courtroom misconduct occurs may impose
appropriate sanctions including punishment for contempt. If the
judge's conduct was so integrated with the contempt that he
contributed to it or was otherwise involved or his objectivity can
reasonably be questioned, the matter shall be referred to another
judge.
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 21. Crimes and Punishments
Added by Laws 1984, c. 14, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 1984.
Source: official Oklahoma text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Oklahoma § 21-565.1
What does Oklahoma Statutes § 21-565.1 cover?
Section 21-565.1 ("Trial court - Power to punish contempt - Censure Contempt proceedings") is part of the Oklahoma Statutes, the codified statutory law of Oklahoma. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Oklahoma § 21-565.1?
A common citation format is "Oklahoma Statutes § 21-565.1" (Oklahoma). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Oklahoma law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Oklahoma official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Oklahoma attorney.
How does Oklahoma § 21-565.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Oklahoma can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Oklahoma.