Transgender Attorney Arrested for Contempt in Oklahoma Hearing

In Pontotoc County, Oklahoma, transgender attorney Rob Hopkins was arrested for contempt of court on February 5, 2026, during a child custody hearing before Judge Laurie Jackson. The incident, captured on courtroom video, unfolded as Hopkins repeatedly interrupted the proceedings while representing client Julie Ann Kramer in a dispute over custody and jurisdiction.

The hearing centered on Hopkins' request for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act for Kramer, whose child had never resided in the county. Judge Jackson instructed Hopkins to file the proper petition through the court clerk's office, emphasizing the need for compliance with procedural rules. Hopkins contested the instructions, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction and that Kramer's child had not been seen due to the ongoing case. Tensions escalated as Hopkins accused the judge of interrupting her arguments and displaying bias.

Video footage shows Hopkins speaking over the judge multiple times, prompting Jackson to issue warnings. "You interrupt me one more time, you are being held in direct contempt of court," Jackson stated, adding, "And you can wipe that smirk off your face." Hopkins denied...