A 14-year veteran on the bench, who serves five counties in southern Oklahoma, is stepping down as District Judge for the Twentieth Judicial District.
Dennis Morris, first elected in 2010 after defeating Thomas Walker in the general election, said in a statement last week he intends to retire.
Morris cited health reasons in making the announcement last Friday after meeting with staff at the Carter County Courthouse earlier in the day, according to published reports.
“After more than 14 years as a District Judge for the Twentieth Judicial District serving Carter County, I am announcing my retirement from the bench, effective September 1,2025. This decision to retire is not driven by personal choice, but rather by necessity, due to a recent health concern,” he said.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to the citizens of Carter, Johnston, Love, Marshall, and Murray Counties for the privilege and honor of serving as their District Judge, Office 1, Carter County. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served and the trust and support I’ve received through these years.
“I especially want to thank everyone that I have worked with on a daily basis, I could not have done it without each of you. Thank you all,” he said in concluding his statement.
Morris was in private law practice before his 2010 election win, primarily in Carter, Love and Stephens counties.
Morris’ successor will be chosen from a list of applicants supplied by the Judicial Nominating Commission of Oklahoma. After a review of all eligible applicants, three nominees will be sent to the governor’s office for his consideration. The governor will have 60 days to make a final decision on a new judge. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court will make the final call if the governor does not make a decision, according to Oklahoma law.
