Oklahoma Court Expenses, Fines and Fees Soar in Recent Years

Fines, dues and court expenses for defendants in Oklahoma courtrooms have spiked since 2007 and some criminal justice reform advocates say state and local government agencies increasingly rely on them for income.

Citations, fees and costs have risen 27% in the past 12 years. State lawmakers have also imposed two administrative charges that collectively require defendants to pay an additional 25% of all fees amassed by the courts for the executive branch.

Court collections have contributed to up to 90% of yearly district court subsidies over the same period.