Office Of Juvenile Affairs

In 1994, the Oklahoma Legislature passed the Juvenile Reform Act (H.B. 2640) creating OJA as the state juvenile justice agency, effective July 1, 1995. This legislation also created the Youthful Offender (YO) Act to provide justice for serious and habitual juvenile offenders 15 through 17 years of age. OJA was given the responsibility and authority to manage the states juvenile affairs, a seven member board was created with appointments by Governor Frank Keating based off the advice and consent of the Senate. On April 5, 1996, OJA was able to meet the Federal Court requirements for dismissal of the Terry D. lawsuit. A new era of innovative programs, increased community involvement, and an enhanced, open relationship with the judiciary had begun. Please explore more of OJAs web site for additional information about services, programs, offered through our agency