Governor Stitt Appoints Marion Fry to Appeals Court

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has named Judge Marion D. Fry to the state's Court of Criminal Appeals.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Criminal Justice

Governor Stitt Appoints Marion Fry to Appeals Court

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Governor Kevin Stitt announced the appointment of Marion D. Fry to represent District 3 on the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. Fry brings extensive legal experience, including past work as a district attorney in Tulsa and LeFlore counties.

Why it matters

This appointment fills a critical seat on the state's highest criminal court, marking a significant transition for the bench in Oklahoma. The selection of a long-serving district and county judge reflects the current administration's approach to judicial staffing.

Judge Marion D. Fry joins the Court of Criminal Appeals after serving four terms as a judge, including as an Associate District Judge of LeFlore County since 2015. The appointment is specifically designated for District 3.

The players

Kevin Stitt

Kevin Stitt is the current Governor of Oklahoma who holds the constitutional authority to appoint judges to state appellate courts.

Marion D. Fry

Marion D. Fry is an experienced jurist and former district attorney who has been selected to serve on the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals.

The details

Marion D. Fry holds a bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University and a law degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law. Prior to their judicial tenure, Fry served as a district attorney in both Tulsa and LeFlore counties.

Marion D. Fry was first elected as a judge in 2014.
Fry began serving as the Associate District Judge of LeFlore County in 2015.
Governor Stitt announced the judicial appointment in October 2026.

Legal Context

This appointment aligns with the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals district representation requirements for the state. It follows a historical pattern of selecting judges with previous trial-level experience to serve on the appellate bench.

Residents in District 3 will see a change in their appellate representation as Judge Fry transitions to the state court. This shift could impact how regional legal precedents are addressed at the highest criminal court level.

The takeaway

Judicial appointments like this one are vital for the continuity of the state's legal system and the administration of justice. Citizens should stay informed about the backgrounds of those serving on higher courts as these officials influence long-term legal policy.