What is the Trial like?
Small Claims Trials in Tulsa County are heard by Special Judges at the courthouse located at 500 West Archer Street (the court guide covers the logistics). Cases are presented to the Judge — there usually is no jury. The rules of formal Trials are relaxed by design:
“The hearing and disposition of such actions shall be informal with the sole object of dispensing speedy justice between the parties.”
12 O.S. §1761
Both sides may put on witnesses. The Judge can question them directly and can order that further documents be produced. What there is not — anywhere in the case — is discovery. No depositions, no interrogatories, no requests for production before Judgment. Whatever each side carries through the courtroom door that day is the case.
That is the whole argument for preparation. There is no 'I will do it later'.
What is a Counterclaim?
A Defendant who wants to claim it is you who owes them is not allowed to engage in 'Trial by ambush'. Oklahoma Law requires a Counterclaim or setoff to be raised by verified answer — sworn and filed with the Court Clerk at least 72 hours before the scheduled Trial. An ambush Counterclaim at the Trial is objectionable and Mr. Ingham will object on your behalf if you so desire.