Bill > HB2138

This bill modifies two sections of Oklahoma civil procedure law related to default judgments and postjudgment interest. First, it amends the rules for default judgments by clarifying that no motion or hearing is required when a defendant fails to file a response within 20 days after being served with a summons and petition. The bill specifies that merely contacting the plaintiff or their attorney does not constitute a legal response, and only a written filing with the court clerk counts as a proper response. This change aims to streamline the default judgment process by removing procedural barriers. Second, the bill updates postjudgment interest regulations, adding a provision that interest shall apply to amounts collected on a judgment that is later overturned on appeal, ensuring that if a defendant is ultimately successful, they can receive restitution with interest. The bill also makes technical corrections to legal language, such as changing "counter-claim" to "counterclaim" in the existing statute. These modifications are designed to provide clarity and efficiency in civil court procedures, with the changes set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

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http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2138&Session=2600