Courts are state and federal government institutions with the authority to decide legal disputes and administer justice under the law in civil, criminal, and administrative matters. Courts are generally given this authority under the relevant state or federal constitution, and the relevant state or federal statutes. Courts are generally staffed by (1) one judge (in trial courts) or a panel of judges (in appellate courts) who interpret and apply the law; (2) support staff members that may include administrators (clerks); (3) a court reporter to record court proceedings; and (4) a bailiff to provide security.

The room in which court proceedings are conducted is known as the courtroom, and the building that includes the courtroom is known as the courthouse. The term “the court” may be used to refer to the judge or judges who are presiding over court proceedings. The judges in a state or federal court system are collectively known as the judiciary.

In Oklahoma, courts operate as part of the state and federal judiciary systems, with the authority to resolve legal disputes and deliver justice in accordance with the law across civil, criminal, and administrative cases. This authority is derived from the Oklahoma state constitution and statutes, as well as federal constitutional law and statutes, depending on the jurisdiction of the case. Oklahoma courts typically consist of a single judge in trial courts or a panel of judges in appellate courts, who are responsible for interpreting and applying the law. The courts are supported by staff including clerks, court reporters who document the proceedings, and bailiffs who ensure security. Court proceedings take place in a courtroom, which is located within a courthouse. The term 'the court' can refer to either the physical courtroom or the judge(s) presiding over the proceedings. Oklahoma's judiciary is part of a broader system that includes both state and federal judges, each with distinct roles and responsibilities as defined by their respective legal frameworks.